When one thinks of creativity, free expression, and social progress in higher education, The New School stands out as a beacon of modern learning. Founded in New York City, this university has long been associated with cutting-edge thought, artistic exploration, and a deep commitment to social change. Unlike traditional institutions, The New School was designed as a space for thinkers, artists, and reformers who questioned convention and sought new ways to understand the world.
Today, it continues to represent a fusion of design, liberal arts, performing arts, and social research, attracting students and faculty from around the globe who are united by curiosity and a drive for innovation.
In this article, we explore the fascinating history of The New School, its defining philosophy, its colleges and programs, and the ways in which it continues to shape education, art, and public discourse in the 21st century.
The New School was founded in 1919 in New York City by a group of intellectuals, educators, and social scientists who sought a more open and democratic approach to education. At the time, many American universities were bound by strict curricula and limited academic freedom.
The founders — including philosopher John Dewey, historian Charles Beard, and economist Thorstein Veblen — envisioned a place where adults could study modern social issues and ideas freely. They wanted to create “a school for the times,” one that reflected real-world challenges and embraced the spirit of experimentation.
Originally known as The New School for Social Research, the institution quickly became a hub for discussion on politics, philosophy, art, and social change. Its founders believed that education should not only impart knowledge but also foster the critical thinking necessary for democracy to thrive.
During the 1930s, The New School became a refuge for European scholars fleeing fascism. Under the leadership of Alvin Johnson, the university established the University in Exile, which welcomed displaced intellectuals from across Europe. This initiative became the Graduate Faculty of Political and Social Science and transformed The New School into an international center for academic freedom.
This commitment to open dialogue and global thought remains a cornerstone of the university’s identity today.
The New School’s philosophy revolves around creativity, critical inquiry, and social responsibility. It challenges the notion of a fixed or static education and instead embraces flexibility, collaboration, and innovation.
Unlike many universities that follow rigid academic traditions, The New School encourages students to think beyond boundaries. Courses often integrate different disciplines — such as design with politics, music with technology, or philosophy with media studies.
Students are urged to question assumptions and find their own voice in both academic and artistic work. Professors act more as mentors than authority figures, guiding students through self-discovery and real-world application of their ideas.
From its founding, The New School has been dedicated to inclusivity and social justice. It was one of the first American universities to admit women and minority students on equal footing. The diverse community of students and faculty fosters global understanding and collaboration, making the university a truly international institution.
Today, The New School is made up of several distinct but interconnected colleges, each with its own focus and identity. Together, they create a multidisciplinary environment that reflects the university’s original spirit of integration and innovation.
Parsons School of Design
Founded in 1896 and later incorporated into The New School in 1970, Parsons is one of the leading art and design schools in the world.
It offers programs in fashion, architecture, product design, communication design, and interior design.
Parsons alumni include famous names such as Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan, Tom Ford, and Anna Sui.
The school focuses on sustainable design, innovation, and creative problem-solving that addresses global issues.
Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
Known for its experimental and socially engaged approach, Lang offers small seminars and individualized learning experiences.
Students study literature, politics, philosophy, and the arts while being encouraged to take courses across other colleges.
Lang embodies The New School’s belief in questioning authority and creating meaningful change through education.
The College of Performing Arts (CoPA)
Includes The School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, Mannes School of Music, and the School of Drama.
The College fosters artistic expression through collaboration across disciplines — for example, jazz musicians working with actors or composers collaborating with designers.
Many alumni have become influential in music, theater, and film.
The New School for Social Research (NSSR)
This graduate school continues the legacy of the University in Exile.
It specializes in philosophy, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science.
Known for its rigorous intellectual environment, it remains a leader in progressive social thought.
Parsons Paris
Located in France, this branch of Parsons connects students to European art, fashion, and culture.
It offers a global perspective while maintaining the same creative ethos as the New York campus.
The New School’s main campus is located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, one of New York City’s most artistic and culturally vibrant neighborhoods.
The campus architecture reflects the university’s values: modern, open, and dynamic. The University Center, a striking glass and steel building at 63 Fifth Avenue, serves as the heart of the campus. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the building integrates classrooms, studios, and social spaces that encourage collaboration.
Students benefit from proximity to museums, theaters, galleries, and design firms, providing endless opportunities for internships and creative partnerships. The location itself becomes part of the educational experience.
The New School is known for encouraging students to combine disciplines in innovative ways. For example, a student might study sustainable design while exploring urban policy or pair philosophy with digital media.
This interdisciplinary model reflects the real world, where solutions to complex problems often require collaboration across fields.
Rather than relying on traditional exams, many courses emphasize projects, presentations, and research-based work. Students often collaborate on projects that address real social issues, such as climate change, inequality, or urban development.
This hands-on approach prepares graduates for careers that demand creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving.
The New School has also embraced technology in education. Many programs incorporate digital design, coding, and interactive media. The university promotes sustainable and ethical use of technology, ensuring that innovation aligns with human and environmental well-being.
The New School has long been at the center of cultural and intellectual life in New York City. Its commitment to freedom of thought has made it a gathering place for artists, writers, and thinkers.
Notable alumni include:
Marc Jacobs – fashion designer
Donna Karan – founder of DKNY
Martha Graham – modern dance pioneer (former faculty member)
James Baldwin – writer and activist (taught seminars at The New School)
Jack Kerouac – author of On the Road
Bradford Young – cinematographer
Billy Porter – actor and performer
These individuals represent the creative spirit and intellectual curiosity that define the university.
The New School regularly hosts lectures, performances, and discussions that bring together scholars, artists, and activists from around the world. Topics range from social justice and environmental sustainability to the future of design and technology.
The Vera List Center for Art and Politics, for example, explores how art can drive social change, while The Tishman Environment and Design Center focuses on sustainable design and environmental justice.
Social responsibility is at the core of The New School’s mission. From its founding, the institution has been dedicated to the idea that education can and should make society more equitable.
The New School for Social Research conducts studies on inequality, democracy, and global migration. Faculty members are often involved in public policy debates, working with governments and NGOs to address pressing social issues.
Parsons School of Design has been a leader in sustainability, encouraging students to design with environmental and ethical awareness. The university’s initiatives aim to reduce its carbon footprint and integrate sustainability into all areas of study.
The New School is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all students. It supports initiatives that promote racial equity, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights. This dedication to inclusion is reflected in both campus culture and curriculum.
The New School’s impact extends far beyond New York. Through partnerships and study abroad programs, students engage with communities around the world.
Parsons Paris connects European and American design education, while collaborations with institutions in Asia, Latin America, and Africa encourage cross-cultural dialogue.
The university’s global network of alumni works in art, politics, media, and education, influencing culture and policy on an international scale.
The New School attracts a diverse community of students who share a passion for creativity and change.
Students often describe the atmosphere as open and collaborative rather than competitive. Many projects involve interdisciplinary teams, allowing students from different programs to share ideas and learn from one another.
Student organizations range from environmental groups and social justice clubs to music ensembles and design collectives. The campus is alive with exhibitions, concerts, and performances that showcase student work.
Being located in Manhattan offers students endless opportunities for inspiration and growth. The city becomes an extension of the classroom, offering access to cultural institutions, professional networks, and a dynamic urban environment.
More than a century after its founding, The New School continues to evolve. Its leadership remains focused on adapting education to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.
The university is exploring new ways to integrate technology, sustainability, and community engagement into its programs. Online learning, hybrid classes, and global collaborations are expanding access to its unique educational approach.
Despite these changes, The New School remains committed to the principles that shaped its birth: academic freedom, creativity, and social responsibility. As the world faces complex issues such as climate change, inequality, and technological disruption, these values are more important than ever.
The New School is not just a university; it is an idea — an ongoing experiment in education, art, and democracy. Founded in a time of political upheaval and intellectual awakening, it continues to embody the belief that learning should be bold, inclusive, and transformative.
Its students and faculty have shaped fields as diverse as design, philosophy, and public policy, leaving a global legacy of innovation and social engagement.
In a world that often values conformity, The New School stands as a reminder that progress begins with curiosity, creativity, and the courage to question. It remains, as its founders intended, a school for the times — and for the future.
When one thinks of creativity, free expression, and social progress in higher education, The New School stands out as a beacon of modern learning. Founded in New York City, this university has long been associated with cutting-edge thought, artistic exploration, and a deep commitment to social change. Unlike traditional institutions, The New School was designed as a space for thinkers, artists, and reformers who questioned convention and sought new ways to understand the world.
Today, it continues to represent a fusion of design, liberal arts, performing arts, and social research, attracting students and faculty from around the globe who are united by curiosity and a drive for innovation.
In this article, we explore the fascinating history of The New School, its defining philosophy, its colleges and programs, and the ways in which it continues to shape education, art, and public discourse in the 21st century.
The New School was founded in 1919 in New York City by a group of intellectuals, educators, and social scientists who sought a more open and democratic approach to education. At the time, many American universities were bound by strict curricula and limited academic freedom.
The founders — including philosopher John Dewey, historian Charles Beard, and economist Thorstein Veblen — envisioned a place where adults could study modern social issues and ideas freely. They wanted to create “a school for the times,” one that reflected real-world challenges and embraced the spirit of experimentation.
Originally known as The New School for Social Research, the institution quickly became a hub for discussion on politics, philosophy, art, and social change. Its founders believed that education should not only impart knowledge but also foster the critical thinking necessary for democracy to thrive.
During the 1930s, The New School became a refuge for European scholars fleeing fascism. Under the leadership of Alvin Johnson, the university established the University in Exile, which welcomed displaced intellectuals from across Europe. This initiative became the Graduate Faculty of Political and Social Science and transformed The New School into an international center for academic freedom.
This commitment to open dialogue and global thought remains a cornerstone of the university’s identity today.
The New School’s philosophy revolves around creativity, critical inquiry, and social responsibility. It challenges the notion of a fixed or static education and instead embraces flexibility, collaboration, and innovation.
Unlike many universities that follow rigid academic traditions, The New School encourages students to think beyond boundaries. Courses often integrate different disciplines — such as design with politics, music with technology, or philosophy with media studies.
Students are urged to question assumptions and find their own voice in both academic and artistic work. Professors act more as mentors than authority figures, guiding students through self-discovery and real-world application of their ideas.
From its founding, The New School has been dedicated to inclusivity and social justice. It was one of the first American universities to admit women and minority students on equal footing. The diverse community of students and faculty fosters global understanding and collaboration, making the university a truly international institution.
Today, The New School is made up of several distinct but interconnected colleges, each with its own focus and identity. Together, they create a multidisciplinary environment that reflects the university’s original spirit of integration and innovation.
Parsons School of Design
Founded in 1896 and later incorporated into The New School in 1970, Parsons is one of the leading art and design schools in the world.
It offers programs in fashion, architecture, product design, communication design, and interior design.
Parsons alumni include famous names such as Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan, Tom Ford, and Anna Sui.
The school focuses on sustainable design, innovation, and creative problem-solving that addresses global issues.
Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
Known for its experimental and socially engaged approach, Lang offers small seminars and individualized learning experiences.
Students study literature, politics, philosophy, and the arts while being encouraged to take courses across other colleges.
Lang embodies The New School’s belief in questioning authority and creating meaningful change through education.
The College of Performing Arts (CoPA)
Includes The School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, Mannes School of Music, and the School of Drama.
The College fosters artistic expression through collaboration across disciplines — for example, jazz musicians working with actors or composers collaborating with designers.
Many alumni have become influential in music, theater, and film.
The New School for Social Research (NSSR)
This graduate school continues the legacy of the University in Exile.
It specializes in philosophy, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science.
Known for its rigorous intellectual environment, it remains a leader in progressive social thought.
Parsons Paris
Located in France, this branch of Parsons connects students to European art, fashion, and culture.
It offers a global perspective while maintaining the same creative ethos as the New York campus.
The New School’s main campus is located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, one of New York City’s most artistic and culturally vibrant neighborhoods.
The campus architecture reflects the university’s values: modern, open, and dynamic. The University Center, a striking glass and steel building at 63 Fifth Avenue, serves as the heart of the campus. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the building integrates classrooms, studios, and social spaces that encourage collaboration.
Students benefit from proximity to museums, theaters, galleries, and design firms, providing endless opportunities for internships and creative partnerships. The location itself becomes part of the educational experience.
The New School is known for encouraging students to combine disciplines in innovative ways. For example, a student might study sustainable design while exploring urban policy or pair philosophy with digital media.
This interdisciplinary model reflects the real world, where solutions to complex problems often require collaboration across fields.
Rather than relying on traditional exams, many courses emphasize projects, presentations, and research-based work. Students often collaborate on projects that address real social issues, such as climate change, inequality, or urban development.
This hands-on approach prepares graduates for careers that demand creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving.
The New School has also embraced technology in education. Many programs incorporate digital design, coding, and interactive media. The university promotes sustainable and ethical use of technology, ensuring that innovation aligns with human and environmental well-being.
The New School has long been at the center of cultural and intellectual life in New York City. Its commitment to freedom of thought has made it a gathering place for artists, writers, and thinkers.
Notable alumni include:
Marc Jacobs – fashion designer
Donna Karan – founder of DKNY
Martha Graham – modern dance pioneer (former faculty member)
James Baldwin – writer and activist (taught seminars at The New School)
Jack Kerouac – author of On the Road
Bradford Young – cinematographer
Billy Porter – actor and performer
These individuals represent the creative spirit and intellectual curiosity that define the university.
The New School regularly hosts lectures, performances, and discussions that bring together scholars, artists, and activists from around the world. Topics range from social justice and environmental sustainability to the future of design and technology.
The Vera List Center for Art and Politics, for example, explores how art can drive social change, while The Tishman Environment and Design Center focuses on sustainable design and environmental justice.
Social responsibility is at the core of The New School’s mission. From its founding, the institution has been dedicated to the idea that education can and should make society more equitable.
The New School for Social Research conducts studies on inequality, democracy, and global migration. Faculty members are often involved in public policy debates, working with governments and NGOs to address pressing social issues.
Parsons School of Design has been a leader in sustainability, encouraging students to design with environmental and ethical awareness. The university’s initiatives aim to reduce its carbon footprint and integrate sustainability into all areas of study.
The New School is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all students. It supports initiatives that promote racial equity, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights. This dedication to inclusion is reflected in both campus culture and curriculum.
The New School’s impact extends far beyond New York. Through partnerships and study abroad programs, students engage with communities around the world.
Parsons Paris connects European and American design education, while collaborations with institutions in Asia, Latin America, and Africa encourage cross-cultural dialogue.
The university’s global network of alumni works in art, politics, media, and education, influencing culture and policy on an international scale.
The New School attracts a diverse community of students who share a passion for creativity and change.
Students often describe the atmosphere as open and collaborative rather than competitive. Many projects involve interdisciplinary teams, allowing students from different programs to share ideas and learn from one another.
Student organizations range from environmental groups and social justice clubs to music ensembles and design collectives. The campus is alive with exhibitions, concerts, and performances that showcase student work.
Being located in Manhattan offers students endless opportunities for inspiration and growth. The city becomes an extension of the classroom, offering access to cultural institutions, professional networks, and a dynamic urban environment.
More than a century after its founding, The New School continues to evolve. Its leadership remains focused on adapting education to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.
The university is exploring new ways to integrate technology, sustainability, and community engagement into its programs. Online learning, hybrid classes, and global collaborations are expanding access to its unique educational approach.
Despite these changes, The New School remains committed to the principles that shaped its birth: academic freedom, creativity, and social responsibility. As the world faces complex issues such as climate change, inequality, and technological disruption, these values are more important than ever.
The New School is not just a university; it is an idea — an ongoing experiment in education, art, and democracy. Founded in a time of political upheaval and intellectual awakening, it continues to embody the belief that learning should be bold, inclusive, and transformative.
Its students and faculty have shaped fields as diverse as design, philosophy, and public policy, leaving a global legacy of innovation and social engagement.
In a world that often values conformity, The New School stands as a reminder that progress begins with curiosity, creativity, and the courage to question. It remains, as its founders intended, a school for the times — and for the future.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making
The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution
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