Landscape Architecture (Research)

A PhD or MPhil in Landscape Architecture is for anyone who is keen to explore important aspects of the relationship between people and landscape.

You may have a background in landscape architecture or a neighbouring discipline with an interest in landscape. You may be on an academic path following directly from achieving a master degree or have spent time since then in work, and from your experience find yourself motivated to pursue research via the MPhil or PhD degree.

We offer supervision across a very wide range of research themes and topics. These span many countries, regions, historical and contemporary periods, and issues.

Areas of expertise include:

• landscape design

• planning and management practice

• sustainable and resilient landscapes

• landscape perception and experience

• inclusive landscape design

• the history and theory of landscape architecture

• landscape architecture conservation

• cultural landscapes

• applications of digital technologies

Much, although not all, of our innovative research at Edinburgh College of Art is also associated with that undertaken by the OPENspace research centre, engaging with developing agendas linked to many of the UN sustainable development goals and the challenges facing people and the planet.

Our programme particularly focuses on the relationship between landscape and human health and wellbeing.

Themes pursued by past and current students linked to OPENspace research include:

• the public realm

• urban open space

• blue and green space networks

• children’s environments

• sustainable, healthy environments

While most students are supervised by Landscape Architecture staff, there are also opportunities to be jointly supervised by staff from elsewhere in Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture or other schools or subject areas, depending on the subject and necessary expertise.