Master of Fine Arts in Lighting Design

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.
The unique course of study is anchored in an integrated studio experience in which students interact with peers in architecture, interior design, and product design disciplines. Students work collaboratively on complex problems ranging from single interior environments to comprehensive architectural volumes, outdoor public space, and urban planning.

Complete a Statement of Purpose
Each academic program and admission committee has developed a program-specific Statement of Purpose prompt. This required application item customarily provides the opportunity for you to indicate your reasons for applying to your program of interest, the ways in which you plan to contribute to the program, The New School, and beyond, and your academic and professional goals. Please begin your application to review the program-specific prompt established by your admission committee.
Submit Your R'sum
Submit a one to two-page r'sum/curriculum vitae summarizing your academic qualifications, relevant work experience, published writing, volunteer/community work, professional networking, public speaking, and/or any other relevant experiences that may relate to your field of study, including dates and positions held. Please also note any special language or computer skills that you have.
Submit Two Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references are required. Recommendations must be submitted by recommenders directly via the online application portal. Instructions are included in the online application.
Submit College Transcripts
Applicants must upload an unofficial transcript, mark sheet, or academic record for each institution (even if you didnt receive a degree) in the Academic History section of the online application.

All uploaded transcripts must be accompanied by a key, a legend, or the back copy of the transcript. Non-English transcripts must be accompanied by an English translation. Records from non-U.S. institutions must have grades or marks and contain a copy of diploma if the degree has been conferred. Make sure your name appears on the transcript/record. Scanned documents must be clear and legible.
Submit a Portfolio
If a portfolio is required or optional for the program to which youre applying (see our Graduate Portfolio page for additional information), you will be prompted to finalize and submit your portfolio via the Portfolio section of your online application. Applicants to programs with video essay requirements should also upload their videos to the Portfolio section of the online application.
Minimum required scores are:

TOEFL iBT92
IELTS7.0