Drawing on the breadth and depth of expertise in design theory and practice at Parsons, this new master of arts program is an opportunity to explore design as both a field of scholarly research and an agent of social change.
The MA in Design Studies shapes a new generation of design thinkers who will critically examine theoretical, historical, philosophical, and social issues related to design practice, products, and discourses. This 42-credit graduate program offers a new academic pathway for students who want to pursue careers in fields related to design research, writing, curating, and criticism. This innovative master of arts degree is also for those who wish to incorporate design research into their design practice or who want to go on to advanced graduate study (PhD).
Housed in Parsons' School of Art and Design History and Theory, the program draws on the wide range of skills and academic expertise of its faculty, most notably in design theory, methodology, and philosophy; design history; design criticism and writing; material culture studies; fashion studies; architecture theory, urban studies, spatial studies; and sustainability.
The curriculum consists of required courses and provides students with the opportunity to devise cross-disciplinary paths of study tailored to their specific interests. While students take most classes within the School of Art and Design History and Theory, they will also have access to graduate electives offered across Parsons and coursework in other subjects—such as history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, and politics—offered at The New School. Students may take up to six credits of studio coursework.
The program draws on the vast cultural resources of New York City and Paris to provide opportunities for civic engagement through design internships (for which students can earn three credits toward their MA degree), production of exhibitions and publications, and projects and grant writing. Students can apply for positions as teaching assistants and research assistants within the university. The program will also enable students to study in complementary programs overseas.
MA Design Studies launched in fall 2012 at Parsons' main campus in New York City, and it will be offered at Parsons Paris in fall 2013.* Both campuses share the same application process and curriculum, so students will have the opportunity to begin their study in one city and take a semester or year in the other. Students entering the program may include design professionals and BFA or BA graduates who want to continue their design education. Students will be challenged to reframe current thinking about design from both contemporary and historical perspectives.
* The Paris campus is awaiting review by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
