| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Established: 1896 (as The Chase School; renamed Parsons in 1941)
Type: Private
Parent Institution: The New School
Location: Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York City, USA
Motto: "New. Now. Next."
Student Population: Approximately 5,000 (including undergraduate and graduate students)
Campus Type: Urban, integrated into NYC’s dynamic cultural and design hub
Global Reputation:
Ranked consistently among the top design schools worldwide, especially for fashion, architecture, and industrial design programs.
Recognized as one of the most influential design schools globally by QS World University Rankings.
Location in New York City:
Situated in the heart of Manhattan, Parsons offers students unparalleled access to one of the world’s largest and most influential cultural and design capitals.
Proximity to leading companies, galleries, and cultural institutions provides abundant internship and job opportunities.
Interdisciplinary Learning:
Students can take courses across other divisions of The New School, blending design with subjects like liberal arts, business, and technology.
Focus on Innovation and Sustainability:
Parsons integrates sustainability, social justice, and technology into its design curriculum, emphasizing the role of design in solving real-world problems.
Renowned Faculty and Alumni:
Faculty includes industry leaders, artists, and innovators.
Alumni include prominent figures such as Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Anna Sui, Narciso Rodriguez, and Donna Karan.
Hands-On Learning and Industry Connections:
Strong ties with industries and brands like Nike, Apple, Louis Vuitton, Google, and more.
Collaborative projects with global organizations provide students with real-world experience.
Parsons offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across five schools, along with pre-college and summer programs for aspiring designers.
1. Undergraduate Programs (BFA/BA):
Fashion Design (BFA)
Communication Design (BFA)
Product Design (BFA)
Interior Design (BFA)
Illustration (BFA)
Photography (BFA)
Fine Arts (BFA)
Strategic Design and Management (BA)
2. Graduate Programs (MFA/MS/MA):
Fashion Design and Society (MFA)
Architecture (MArch)
Industrial Design (MFA)
Lighting Design (MFA)
Transdisciplinary Design (MFA)
Design and Technology (MFA)
Interior Design (MFA)
Strategic Design and Management (MS)
3. Certificate and Short-Term Programs:
Fashion Business
Graphic Design
Interior Design
Admissions to Parsons are competitive, and applicants are evaluated holistically based on academic performance, creativity, and personal vision.
Undergraduate Admissions:
Eligibility:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Portfolio submission showcasing creative work.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
Required Documents:
Application form (via Common App or The New School Application Portal).
Transcripts and recommendation letters.
Personal essay/statement.
Graduate Admissions:
Eligibility:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Portfolio showcasing design, research, or professional projects.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
Additional Requirements:
Resume/CV.
Statement of Purpose.
Interview (for select programs).
Undergraduate Programs: Approximately $51,000–$55,000 per year (tuition only).
Graduate Programs: Approximately $50,000–$54,000 per year (tuition only).
Additional costs include housing, meal plans, supplies, and other fees.
Merit-Based Scholarships:
Automatically considered upon admission for outstanding academic and creative achievements.
Awards range from $5,000–$25,000 per year.
Need-Based Financial Aid:
U.S. and eligible international students may apply for financial aid based on demonstrated financial need.
External Scholarships:
Parsons accepts scholarships and grants from third-party organizations and sponsors.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships:
Available for select graduate students to help offset tuition costs.
Location:
Parsons is located in Greenwich Village, one of NYC’s most vibrant neighborhoods, offering students access to world-class galleries, theaters, restaurants, and more.
Facilities:
State-of-the-art studios, workshops, and labs equipped with the latest technology.
Making Center: A 35,000-square-foot facility providing resources for 3D printing, woodworking, and digital fabrication.
Arnold and Sheila Aronson Galleries: Hosts student exhibitions and industry events.
Student Organizations:
Over 50 student clubs, including fashion collectives, design studios, and sustainability groups.
Events and Networking:
Students participate in events like New York Fashion Week, Milan Design Week, and industry showcases.
Parsons regularly invites guest speakers, including industry icons and alumni.
Placement Rate:
Over 90% of Parsons graduates find employment or pursue further education within a year of graduation.
Top Employers:
Louis Vuitton, Google, Apple, Nike, Vogue, Disney, IKEA, and Chanel.
Internships:
Parsons has strong internship programs with global companies, giving students real-world experience.
Notable Alumni:
Marc Jacobs (Fashion Designer)
Tom Ford (Fashion Designer and Film Director)
Anna Sui (Fashion Designer)
Donna Karan (Fashion Designer)
Alexander Wang (Fashion Designer)
Ranked among the Top 3 Design Schools in the World by QS World University Rankings for Art and Design.
Recognized as the #1 Design School in the U.S. by industry professionals.
Parsons offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs that combine studio-based learning with academic coursework.
Program Name |
Degree Type |
|---|---|
|
Fashion Design |
BFA |
|
Communication Design |
BFA |
|
Interior Design |
BFA |
|
Illustration |
BFA |
|
Photography |
BFA |
|
Fine Arts |
BFA |
|
Product Design |
BFA |
|
Industrial Design |
BFA |
|
Integrated Design |
BFA |
|
Design and Technology |
BFA |
|
Architectural Design |
BFA |
|
Strategic Design and Management |
BA |
|
Art, Media, and Technology |
BFA (offered at Parsons Paris) |
Parsons’ graduate programs are designed for students looking to deepen their expertise and specialize in their chosen design fields. Programs include Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Architecture (MArch), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Science (MS) degrees.
Program Name |
Degree Type |
|---|---|
|
Fashion Design and Society |
MFA |
|
Interior Design |
MFA |
|
Industrial Design |
MFA |
|
Lighting Design |
MFA |
|
Photography |
MFA |
|
Fine Arts |
MFA |
|
Transdisciplinary Design |
MFA |
|
Design and Technology |
MFA |
|
Architecture |
MArch |
|
History of Design and Curatorial Studies |
MA |
|
Fashion Studies |
MA |
|
Strategic Design and Management |
MS |
|
Data Visualization |
MS |
|
Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management |
MS |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fashion Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Communication Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Product Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Interior Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Illustration (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Photography (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Fine Arts (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Industrial Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Integrated Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Design and Technology (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Architectural Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Strategic Design and Management (BA) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
|
Art, Media, and Technology (BFA) (Parsons Paris) |
4 years |
$53,568 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fashion Design and Society (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Interior Design (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Industrial Design (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Lighting Design (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Photography (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Fine Arts (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Transdisciplinary Design (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Design and Technology (MFA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Architecture (MArch) |
3 years |
$53,184 |
|
History of Design and Curatorial Studies (MA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Fashion Studies (MA) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Strategic Design and Management (MS) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Data Visualization (MS) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
|
Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management (MS) |
2 years |
$53,184 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Public and Urban Policy |
4–5 years |
$39,000–$43,000 |
|
PhD in Sociology |
4–5 years |
$39,000–$43,000 |
|
PhD in Philosophy |
4–5 years |
$39,000–$43,000 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4–5 years |
$39,000–$43,000 |
Global Reputation:
Ranked among the top design schools worldwide, Parsons is especially renowned for its programs in fashion design, interior design, architecture, and communication design.
Location in New York City:
Situated in the heart of Manhattan, Parsons offers international students access to one of the world’s most dynamic cities, filled with opportunities for internships, networking, and inspiration.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
Parsons has a vibrant, multicultural campus community with students from over 100 countries. Its programs are designed to embrace global perspectives and cultural diversity.
Supportive Learning Environment:
International students are provided with extensive academic and personal support, including help with visas, English language learning, and cultural adjustment.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation:
Parsons incorporates sustainability and technology into its curriculum, preparing students to address global challenges through design.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees):
Fashion Design (BFA)
Interior Design (BFA)
Communication Design (BFA)
Product Design (BFA)
Fine Arts (BFA)
Photography (BFA)
Strategic Design and Management (BA)
Architectural Design (BFA)
Art, Media, and Technology (BFA) (offered at Parsons Paris)
Graduate Programs (Master’s Degrees):
Fashion Design and Society (MFA)
Design and Technology (MFA)
Interior Design (MFA)
Strategic Design and Management (MS)
Transdisciplinary Design (MFA)
Architecture (MArch)
Fashion Studies (MA)
Choose a Program:
Explore the list of undergraduate programs (e.g., Fashion Design, Communication Design, Product Design) and select the one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Submit an Online Application:
Complete the application through the Common App or The New School Application Portal:
The New School Application Portal.
Pay the non-refundable application fee: $50 USD.
Submit Required Documents:
Official High School Transcripts:
Must include your grades and academic performance.
International students must submit transcripts translated into English (if applicable).
Portfolio Submission:
Submit 8–12 pieces of your best creative work via Parsons’ online portfolio platform, SlideRoom.
Parsons looks for originality, concept development, technical skills, and creative vision.
Essay/Personal Statement:
Write an essay (500–650 words) on your background, interests, goals, and why you’re applying to Parsons.
English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
Letter of Recommendation:
One recommendation letter from a teacher, counselor, or mentor is required.
Complete the Parsons Challenge (Optional for Some Programs):
Some programs require the Parsons Challenge, a creative project showcasing your innovation and ability to solve a problem through design. Specific details will be outlined during the application process.
Application Review:
Once all documents are submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Parsons admissions committee.
The process may also involve an interview for certain competitive programs.
Admission Decision:
Decisions are usually communicated via email within 6–8 weeks after the application deadline.
Accept Offer and Pay Enrollment Deposit:
Once admitted, confirm your enrollment by paying a non-refundable enrollment deposit:
Undergraduate Deposit: $500 USD.
Choose a Program:
Explore Parsons’ graduate programs (e.g., Fashion Design and Society, Design and Technology, Transdisciplinary Design) and select the one that fits your academic and career goals.
Submit an Online Application:
Apply through The New School Application Portal:
The New School Application Portal.
Pay the non-refundable application fee: $50 USD.
Submit Required Documents:
Official Transcripts:
Submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities.
International students must submit transcripts translated into English and evaluated (WES or equivalent).
Portfolio Submission:
Most programs require a portfolio of 10–20 pieces of your best work showcasing your expertise and creative process. Submit via SlideRoom.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
A 500–1,000 word essay explaining your academic background, professional goals, and why you’re applying to Parsons.
Resume/CV:
Include academic achievements, work experience, and any relevant creative or professional activities.
Letters of Recommendation:
Submit 2–3 letters from academic or professional referees.
English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
Complete Additional Requirements (If Applicable):
Certain programs, like the MFA in Fashion Design and Society, may require an interview or additional creative work.
Application Review:
Once all documents are submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Parsons graduate admissions committee.
The review process usually takes 6–8 weeks.
Admission Decision:
You will be notified of your admission status via email.
Accept Offer and Pay Enrollment Deposit:
Confirm your enrollment by paying a non-refundable deposit:
Graduate Deposit: $500 USD.
Parsons School of Design offers two main intakes for its programs, with most courses starting in the Fall (August) semester. Limited programs and courses may also be available in the Spring (January) semester.
Intake Term |
Application Deadline |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Primary) |
January 15 (Priority Deadline) |
Late August / Early September |
|
Spring Intake |
October 15 (Priority Deadline) |
Mid-January |
Fall Intake:
The Fall Intake is the primary intake for most undergraduate and graduate programs, with the largest number of courses and scholarship opportunities available.
Recommended for students who wish to maximize their chances of admission and funding.
Spring Intake:
The Spring Intake has limited availability for certain programs, especially at the graduate level.
It is ideal for students who may have missed the Fall deadline or wish to start mid-year.
Rolling Admissions:
Some programs accept applications on a rolling basis, provided there is space available after the priority deadlines.
Parsons Paris:
Parsons’ Paris campus follows a similar intake schedule for its programs in Fashion Design, Art, Media, and Technology, and Fashion Studies.
The eligibility requirements vary depending on whether you are applying for an undergraduate or graduate program. Below are the detailed requirements for both levels:
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Applicants must have completed high school or equivalent with good academic performance.
International students must have completed secondary education that qualifies them for university admission in their home country.
GPA Requirements:
A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is recommended for most programs.
Students with a lower GPA may still be considered if their portfolio or other application materials are strong.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 115.
Exemptions:
Students from English-speaking countries or those who have completed secondary education in English-medium institutions may be exempt from submitting English proficiency scores.
Portfolio Requirements:
All undergraduate applicants must submit a portfolio of 8–12 pieces of their creative work.
The portfolio must showcase originality, creativity, technical skills, and an understanding of design concepts.
Submissions are made through SlideRoom, an online portfolio platform.
Personal Essay:
Write a 500–650-word essay describing your background, creative journey, and goals at Parsons.
Letters of Recommendation:
One recommendation letter is required from a teacher, counselor, or mentor familiar with your academic and creative abilities.
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree:
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution in a related field (e.g., art, design, architecture, or business, depending on the program).
GPA Requirements:
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 is recommended.
Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered if they demonstrate exceptional skills in their portfolio or professional experience.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
Graduate international students must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 115.
Portfolio Requirements:
Most graduate programs require a portfolio submission showcasing 10–20 pieces of creative work.
The portfolio must demonstrate technical expertise, conceptual thinking, and innovation.
Submissions are made through SlideRoom.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
Write a 500–1,000-word SOP explaining your academic background, professional aspirations, and reasons for applying to the program.
Resume/CV:
Include a professional resume or CV outlining your academic achievements, work experience, internships, and creative projects.
Letters of Recommendation:
Submit 2–3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with your qualifications.
Additional Requirements (For Select Programs):
Interview: Some competitive programs, like the MFA in Fashion Design and Society, may require an interview.
Research Proposal: Certain research-focused programs may ask for a proposal outlining your intended area of study.
Fashion Design (BFA/MFA):
Portfolio must include fashion sketches, technical drawings, or examples of garments (optional).
Design and Technology (MFA):
Portfolio should demonstrate proficiency in emerging technologies such as AR/VR, game design, or interactive installations.
Architecture (BFA/MArch):
Submit architectural drawings, renderings, or models that showcase your design and spatial thinking skills.
Strategic Design and Management (BA/MS):
Focus on showcasing creative and analytical problem-solving in your portfolio or SOP.
Ranking Agency |
Ranking/Rating for Parsons School of Design |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings (Art & Design) |
Ranked #1 in the U.S. and Top 3 Worldwide for Art & Design Programs |
|
QS World University Rankings (Global) |
Ranked among the Top 100 Institutions for interdisciplinary innovation |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Ranked among the Top 10 Best Design Schools in the U.S. |
|
Fashionista (Fashion Schools) |
Ranked #1 in the U.S. and Top 5 Globally for Fashion Design Education |
|
Business of Fashion (Fashion Design) |
Ranked among the Top 5 Fashion Schools Globally (Bachelor's and Master's Levels) |
|
DesignIntelligence Rankings |
Ranked among the Top 10 in Interior and Industrial Design Programs in the U.S. |
|
CEOWORLD Magazine (Art & Design) |
Ranked among the Top 3 Design Schools in the U.S. |
|
Forbes (America’s Top Colleges) |
Included among the Best Colleges for Art, Design, and Fashion in the U.S. |
|
Academic Influence (Art & Design) |
Recognized as one of the Most Influential Design Schools Globally |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Automatically considered upon admission. |
$5,000–$25,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
- Based on demonstrated financial need. |
(up to 75% of tuition) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
- Exceptional academic and creative achievement. |
Up to $27,000 per year |
Undergraduate Students |
|
Graduate Dean’s Merit Scholarship |
- Automatically awarded to graduate students with high academic performance and portfolio strength. |
Up to 50% of tuition costs |
Graduate Students |
|
Parsons Scholars Program |
- Open to high school students from underrepresented backgrounds interested in art and design. |
(Full Tuition + Fees) |
Pre-College Students |
|
Parsons Paris Scholarships |
- Available for students enrolled at Parsons Paris. |
Up to 50% of tuition costs |
Undergraduate & Graduate (Paris Campus) |
|
New School Tuition Discount |
- For families with multiple siblings attending The New School. |
10% Tuition Discount |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
External Scholarships |
- Scholarships from external organizations such as Fulbright, EducationUSA, and design-related grants. |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Federal Work-Study (FWS) |
- For U.S. citizens and eligible residents. |
Hourly Pay (Varies) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Residence Hall Name |
Room Type/Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Stuyvesant Park Residence |
- Shared or private rooms (suite-style) |
$18,800–$21,400 |
|
Loeb Hall Residence |
- Shared or private rooms (apartment-style) |
$19,200–$22,000 |
|
Kerrey Hall Residence |
- Eco-friendly, LEED Gold certified |
$19,600–$22,200 |
|
13th Street Residence Hall |
- Apartment-style housing |
$18,500–$21,000 |
|
Stuyvesant Town Apartments |
- Off-campus, managed by Parsons |
$16,000–$19,000 |
1. Diverse and Inclusive Community
Parsons is part of The New School, a progressive university with a multicultural and inclusive student body.
Students come from over 100 countries, creating a truly global community that fosters cross-cultural collaboration and learning.
Parsons celebrates diversity and inclusivity through cultural events, exhibitions, and student-led initiatives.
2. Creative Environment
As one of the world's top design schools, Parsons encourages students to immerse themselves in a highly creative atmosphere.
The campus is located in Greenwich Village, one of New York City's most artistic and culturally rich neighborhoods. Students are surrounded by art galleries, museums, theaters, and design studios.
Students frequently collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, bridging fields like fashion, technology, fine arts, and sustainability.
3. Campus and Facilities
Parsons provides state-of-the-art resources, including:
The Making Center, a 35,000-square-foot workspace with equipment for 3D printing, woodworking, laser cutting, and digital fabrication.
Modern design studios, photography labs, and computer labs equipped with industry-standard software and tools.
The Arnold and Sheila Aronson Galleries, which showcase student and professional work in exhibitions throughout the year.
On-campus events, such as workshops, exhibitions, and guest lectures, allow students to engage with leaders in the creative industries.
4. Housing and Living in New York City
Students have the option of living in Parsons’ residence halls, located in central Manhattan, or finding housing in the city.
Living in NYC provides students with easy access to world-class cultural attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, Whitney Museum, and Broadway theaters.
NYC also serves as a hub for global design and fashion, offering endless inspiration and opportunities for students to explore.
5. Clubs and Organizations
Parsons offers a wide range of student organizations and clubs that cater to academic, cultural, and recreational interests.
Some popular clubs include:
International Student Association (ISA): Supports international students and celebrates cultural diversity.
Fashion Design Society: Focused on organizing fashion shows and discussions about the latest trends.
Sustainability Collective: Promotes sustainable design practices and environmental awareness.
The New School Free Press: A student-run publication covering events, issues, and achievements at The New School.
6. Events and Networking Opportunities
Parsons Festival: A yearly event that showcases the work of graduating students, including exhibitions, performances, and installations across disciplines.
Industry Panels and Guest Lectures: Parsons invites leading figures from industries like fashion, architecture, and technology to engage with students.
Design Challenges and Hackathons: Students participate in collaborative competitions that solve real-world problems through innovative design.
Fashion Week Participation: Parsons students often get involved in New York Fashion Week, showcasing their work or assisting professionals.
7. Career Development and Internships
Located in NYC, Parsons students have direct access to internships, co-ops, and job opportunities at some of the world’s leading companies and design houses.
Career support includes:
The Center for Career Development: Offers resume building, portfolio reviews, mock interviews, and networking events.
Internship opportunities with companies like Nike, Louis Vuitton, Google, Chanel, IKEA, and Apple.
Parsons alumni work in top roles across industries, often providing mentorship to current students.
8. Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
Students at Parsons can enjoy NYC's vibrant cultural scene, which includes:
Visits to iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Access to theaters, concerts, and comedy shows in downtown Manhattan.
Participation in events such as art gallery openings, film screenings, and book launches.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of nearby parks, including The High Line, for relaxation and inspiration.
9. Social Life and Collaboration
Parsons fosters a collaborative environment where students work together across disciplines on creative projects and real-world challenges.
Group projects, exhibitions, and student-led initiatives create opportunities to build connections and lifelong friendships.
Networking with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals is a central part of the Parsons experience.
10. Support for International Students
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS): Provides visa support, orientation programs, and cultural adjustment workshops for international students.
Peer mentorship programs help international students adjust to life in NYC and succeed academically.
Events like International Week celebrate the diverse backgrounds of the student community.
11. Health and Wellness
Student Health Services: Offers medical care, counseling, and mental health support.
Workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and self-care are regularly held on campus.
Fitness facilities are available to students, along with wellness programs and recreational activities.
12. Esports and Gaming
Parsons supports students interested in gaming and esports through student clubs and design programs focused on game development and interactive design.
Opportunities to participate in local gaming tournaments and connect with NYC’s growing esports community.
High Placement Rate:
Over 90% of Parsons graduates are employed or pursue further education within one year of graduation.
Many students secure job offers before graduation through internships, industry partnerships, and portfolio reviews.
Access to Leading Companies:
Parsons’ location in NYC allows students to network with top companies, brands, and organizations in fashion, design, art, and technology.
Students regularly intern and secure full-time jobs at companies like Google, Nike, Louis Vuitton, Apple, Chanel, Microsoft, IKEA, and Vogue.
Strong Alumni Network:
Parsons alumni include globally recognized names like Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Anna Sui, Donna Karan, and Alexander Wang.
Alumni often return to mentor current students, offer internships, or hire Parsons graduates.
Global Career Opportunities:
Parsons graduates work in top design hubs worldwide, including Paris, London, Milan, Tokyo, and Los Angeles.
Programs like Strategic Design and Management and Fashion Design prepare students for careers in multinational companies and entrepreneurial ventures.
1. Fashion and Apparel:
Parsons is world-renowned for its Fashion Design programs, and many graduates work with global fashion brands and luxury labels.
Common Roles: Fashion Designer, Pattern Maker, Textile Designer, Merchandiser, Brand Strategist.
Top Employers: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Ralph Lauren, Prada.
2. Communication Design and Marketing:
Graduates from Communication Design and Strategic Design and Management programs work in branding, graphic design, and marketing.
Common Roles: Creative Director, Art Director, Marketing Manager, Brand Strategist.
Top Employers: Nike, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Pentagram, IDEO.
3. Product Design and Industrial Design:
Parsons’ Product Design and Industrial Design graduates lead innovation in consumer goods, furniture design, and technology products.
Common Roles: Product Designer, Industrial Designer, Design Researcher, UX/UI Designer.
Top Employers: Herman Miller, Tesla, Frog Design, Samsung, IDEO.
4. Architecture and Interior Design:
Graduates from Interior Design and Architectural Design programs excel in sustainable architecture, urban planning, and interior spaces.
Common Roles: Interior Designer, Architect, Urban Planner, Lighting Designer.
Top Employers: Gensler, Zaha Hadid Architects, SOM, HOK, Perkins+Will.
5. Fine Arts and Photography:
Graduates in Fine Arts and Photography pursue careers in galleries, museums, freelance artistry, and creative direction.
Common Roles: Photographer, Visual Artist, Gallery Curator, Creative Director.
Top Employers: The Whitney Museum of American Art, Sotheby’s, Condé Nast, National Geographic.
6. Technology and Interactive Design:
Graduates of programs like Design and Technology (MFA) are highly sought after in tech and digital media industries.
Common Roles: Game Designer, Interaction Designer, AR/VR Specialist, Digital Media Artist.
Top Employers: Google, Facebook (Meta), Adobe, Amazon, Unity Technologies.
Internship Opportunities:
Over 85% of Parsons students complete at least one internship during their studies.
Internship experiences often lead directly to full-time job offers after graduation.
Top Internship Partners:
Fashion Brands: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Ralph Lauren.
Tech Companies: Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Amazon.
Design Firms: Pentagram, IDEO, Frog Design, Gensler.
Media and Publishing: Vogue, Condé Nast, National Geographic.
Collaborative Industry Projects:
Many Parsons programs include real-world projects in collaboration with industry partners.
For example, fashion students may work on design challenges with brands like Nike or Adidas, while product design students collaborate with companies like Herman Miller.
Portfolio Strength:
For most programs, the portfolio submission is one of the most critical parts of the application. Admissions committees evaluate portfolios for originality, creativity, technical skills, and a clear demonstration of the applicant’s creative process.
Academic Performance:
While Parsons focuses on creative talent, applicants are also evaluated on their academic performance. A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is recommended, though students with slightly lower GPAs may still be admitted with a strong portfolio and personal essay.
Essay and Statement of Purpose:
Applicants must articulate their passion for design, their career goals, and how Parsons aligns with their aspirations in a personal essay (undergraduate) or statement of purpose (graduate).
Program Competitiveness:
Some programs, like Fashion Design (BFA) and Design and Technology (MFA), tend to be more competitive due to the high volume of applications and Parsons’ global reputation in these fields.
The acceptance rate for undergraduate programs at Parsons is approximately 55%.
Programs like Fashion Design (BFA) and Communication Design (BFA) may have slightly lower acceptance rates due to higher applicant numbers and selectivity.
The acceptance rate for graduate programs is slightly lower, at around 50%, as these programs are more specialized and require applicants to have a strong academic and professional background.
Programs like Fashion Design and Society (MFA) and Transdisciplinary Design (MFA) are particularly selective.
Main Address:
Parsons School of Design
66 5th Avenue,
New York, NY 10011,
United States.
Parent Institution: Parsons is part of The New School, a progressive university with a campus that spans several buildings in Greenwich Village.
