The MFA Lighting Design program at Parsons, the first of its kind in the world, has trained leaders in this rapidly evolving field for more than 45 years. With a solid foundation in the intellectual, aesthetic, and technical dimensions of light, the interdisciplinary curriculum focuses on human experience, sustainability, and the social impact of lighting design. You explore the relationships between theory, technical application, energy conservation, and social and environmental aspects of electric and natural light.
Master of Lighting Design at The New School
University Rank:#801
Master of Lighting Design at The New School
The New School offers the Master of Lighting Design as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its On Campus campus in New York City, United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 2 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for lighting design and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on August 28, 2027.
About Master of Lighting Design
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Rigorous Studio Experience
Integrate research, conceptual design, representation, technical analysis, and full-scale study to uncover the experiential and social implications of illumination.
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Urban Focus
Explore the role of light in cities, relevant to zoning and building, traffic and pedestrian safety, neighborhood integration, and other urban planning matters.
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New York City Opportunities
Study in the birthplace of architectural lighting design, with access to important built projects, industry events, trade shows, conferences, and internship opportunities.
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Creative Collaboration
Share shops and studio spaces with students from graduate programs in Architecture, Industrial Design, and Interior Design, fostering interdisciplinary work.
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Multidisciplinary Options
Expand your expertise through a three-year double major with Interior Design or a four-year dual degree with Parsons' NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Master of Lighting Design at The New School
Entry Requirements
- Admission Requirements: International applicants are required to follow all admission procedures for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Please pay special attention to the transcript requirements for applicants with foreign credentials.
- Transcripts: Review the admission procedures for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Please pay special attention to the transcript requirements for applicants with foreign credentials.
- TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, Cambridge English, or Duolingo: A TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, Cambridge English, or Duolingo score is not required for applicants whose primary language is English or who have earned a four-year degree from a U.S. college/university or from a university where English is the primary language of instruction. Test score requirements are outlined in the application instructions.
- English Language Writing Diagnostic Examination: At Orientation, The New School for Social Research will administer an English Language Writing Diagnostic Examination to all newly enrolling international students who do not meet the criteria for exemption from the TOEFL requirement. Based on the results of this examination, students may be asked to take a supplemental writing course at no cost. The New School maintains the right to require English proficiency testing when deemed necessary.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 68
- IELTSMin 7.5
- TOEFLMin 100
Career Opportunities after Completing Master of Lighting Design
Graduates are prepared for careers in architectural and interior lighting design, exhibition lighting, and equipment design and manufacturing.
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Tuition and Fee Information for Master of Lighting Design at The New School
Application Fee 50
How to Apply for Master of Lighting Design at The New School
- Select your college. Not sure which program at The New School is right for you? Explore your options.
- Follow the specific application instructions. Once you've selected your program, review its application instructions and requirements.
- Complete the application for your intended degree. All applicants to MA, MS, MFA, MArch, MPS, MM, and PhD degree programs; professional studies diploma programs; and graduate certificate programs should submit The New School’s Online Application.
- Check your application status. Log in to your Admission Hub to check the status of your application materials. Applications become complete and ready for review once all required items have been received by the Office of Admission. Allow at least ten days from the date you submitted your application for the application materials checklist to appear. After reviewing your checklist in the Admission Hub, follow up with schools and recommenders to confirm that your transcripts, recommendations, and other materials have been sent to us.
Master of Lighting Design at The New School
The New School
United States of America, New York City