Starting this fall, the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA) will introduce a master's program in landscape architecture that focuses on the design of urban environments. This new program is intended to work closely with architects and urban planners to enhance the educational offering in Estonia, where landscape architecture has primarily been taught at the Estonian University of Life Sciences in Tartu. Currently, there is a pressing need for more landscape architects in the country, as highlighted by studies predicting a requirement of about 40 new professionals in the next 10 to 15 years.

Katrin Koov, the head of the newly launched EKA program, emphasized the shortage of workforce in the landscape architecture field, which could hinder urban development and planning efforts. According to research, the current educational capacity is insufficient to meet future demands, underscoring the need for expanded training in the discipline. The collaboration between EKA and the Estonian University of Life Sciences is also expected to address this gap, with each institution focusing on different aspects of landscape architecture—EKA on urban environments and the University on a broader scope.

As both institutions prepare to contribute to the education of landscape architects, the collaboration indicates a strategic approach to improving the landscape architecture workforce in Estonia. By diversifying educational pathways and concentrating on urban design, EKA aims not only to fill the existing gaps but also to foster innovative solutions for future urban challenges, potentially leading to more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban environments.