I think it is a good program( I believe the only other M Arch in NYC that is accredited?).

Was I completely impressed by their thesis projects? No
Their facilities? No
Faculty? Mixed-bag (one of the big reasons to go to arch. school in NY)
A design/build studio? Yes
The possibilities to experiment in their Interior Des., Arch Lighting, and New School Network) ? Very much so.
The opportunities in a smaller program are definitely vast and I've seen their facultys' work in design comps. ...it is worth a closer look, and actually checking it out for yourself.

Thanks. How tough is it to actually get into this school? I noticed that they have around a 40% acceptance rate, but Im not sure what kinds of applicants apply there. Since they seem to be more of a design/art school, Im wondering if admissions committee will place more emphasis on portfolio over academics in choosing their applicants.

I don't believe it is difficult to get accepted. Portfolio is key to just about any architecture program.
FYI...they have a Grad school prep program for a semester or two which works on portfolio...so in one sense, you'll be working with the people who might decide your admissions decision.

citizen4nr ,

just for your info, this past year, supposedly they had over 300 applicants, and their incoming class is about 24 students...

there are a few reasons I applied there . . . David Lewis (although I really did not get a sense of how much influence he has had on the program), location, work I saw coming out of there, some of the faculty, and some of the other programs like fashion.

when I went to visit, I liked the spaces, but was a bit concerened about the facilities. For a resourceful person, that really should not matter too much. I had a much better reception there than at Columbia, which gave me a better impression of the place, but that is just happenstance. Seems like it would be a good school to attend, and as with any it has its pros and cons. maybe list these out for yourself, and see how compatible the school is. either way, good luck!

thanks for all the input. I guess my main concern is the quality of the classes/program and whether it will really prepare me for a career in architecture, especially in practicing in new york. I actually visited both parson and columbia. The campus for both seem nice, with columbia having a more 'traditional' closed campus. Both facilities were what i expected for a nyc school, that is, cramped, and it really doesnt bother me that much. I'd say that the nicest facility i've seen so far is harvard gsd, with open studios.

There are a few other threads on this. Search in the archives for "Parons" for much more about this school.