u/Intelligent_Put_1677

I am currently finishing my BA in Environmental Science and Policy with a GIS specialization, and I’m struggling to choose the right path for graduate school.

I want to find the middle ground between Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning (with what I know about them so far). My ultimate goal is to design macro-scale networks of green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) and ecological systems within urban environments.

My dilemma is that I am deeply interested in spatial systems, but I worry about the day-to-day realities of both fields. I’m concerned that a standard MURP might lean too heavily into policy, zoning, and administration rather than physical spatial design. On the flip side, I worry that a traditional MLA might focus too heavily on micro-scale site detailing and construction documentation, whereas I want to stay focused on large-scale regional or district frameworks.

I honestly don't know if the specific role I'm imagining actually exists in the real world, or if academia has given me a fantastical view of environmental city design.

Thanks in advance for any insights!

I am currently finishing my BA in Environmental Science and Policy with a specialization in GIS, and I’m struggling to choose the right path for graduate school.

I want to find the middle ground between Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning (with what I know about them so far). My ultimate goal is to design macro-scale networks of green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) and ecological systems within urban environments.

My dilemma is that I am deeply interested in spatial systems, but I worry about the day-to-day realities of both fields. I’m concerned that a standard MURP might lean too heavily into policy, zoning, and administration rather than physical spatial design. On the flip side, I worry that a traditional MLA might focus too heavily on micro-scale site detailing and construction documentation, whereas I want to stay focused on large-scale regional or district frameworks.

I honestly don't know if the specific role I'm imagining actually exists in the real world, or if academia has given me a fantastical view of environmental city design.

Thanks in advance for any insights!