Theories of Urban Practice (MA), Design and Urban Ecologies (MS)
Theories of Urban Practice MA
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thinkparsonsgrad@newschool.edu
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Program Contact
SDS Urban Council
The MA Theories of Urban Practice is an innovative urban research program for students interested in the critical study of design practices in the context of cities, urbanization, and urban ecosystems as well as urban planning, policy, and governance.
Parsons is not currently admitting new students to this master's degree program. Students interested in this graduate field of study should consider the MS Design and Urban Ecologies program, which shares a 12-credit core curriculum with the MA Theories of Urban Practice.
Program Highlights
Social, Spatial, and Environmental Justice
Address topics including social movements, governance, racial and gender justice, infrastructure, climate change, securitization, and alternative economies.Urban Research
Design and engage in urban investigations that merge traditional fields such as urban studies, urban history, and urban theory through a design and spatial approach.Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Combine urban studies with the study of areas such as politics, visual and social art, critical geography, media, security, and the environment.Inclusive Innovation
Collaborate with communities and agencies to use design as a catalyst for new progressive, transformative urban practices and planning approaches.
- DegreeMaster of Arts (MA)
- FormatFull-time, on campus
- Credits36
- Duration2 years
Curriculum
The curriculum fosters participatory urban processes, equitable development, feminist urban perspectives, and transdisciplinary collaboration across the university. Guided by faculty mentors, students can personalize their course of study by selecting
electives that align with their interests and thesis topic.
Career Paths
Graduates pursue careers as researchers, critics, policy advisors, journalists, curators, and leaders of public, nonprofit, and design organizations. They are prepared for advanced doctoral study as well as professional roles in urban research and analysis; journalism; academia and research institutes; public housing; urban management and consulting; and social, cultural, and environmental think tanks.
Student Work
Theories of Urban Practice (MA)
Theories of Urban Practice (MA)
Urban Design Theories of Urban Practice (MA)
Architecture, Design, Design Research, Graphic Design, Spatial Design, Urban Design, Visual Arts, Visual Culture, Theory, Architectural History Theories of Urban Practice (MA)
Cultural Studies, Urban Design Theories of Urban Practice (MA)
Parsons faculty represent a broad range of expertise and are acknowledged as leading practitioners and scholars in their fields.
