Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design

Changing technologies, new energy efficiency laws, and the demand for inspired, innovative solutions have created a strong need for specialists in interior lighting design.

The Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design (MPSL) is a one-year, post-professional degree that provides a rigorous education in the art and science of architectural lighting design. All classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends. You can study on-site or online with live classes delivered via video-conferencing.

For more information contact program director Shaun Fillion.

Specialists in lighting design are in high demand as the design industry looks to lighting to meet performance and sustainability goals and to create beautiful environments. Graduates of our program work at top lighting design, architectural, and interior design firms and develop career-long mentoring relationships with leaders in the field.

All classes are structured for working professionals, with class offered in the evenings and a distance learning option for those who are not in New York City. On-site and remote learners will meet together in real-time using digital technologies for collaborative class experiences. In addition, all students will gather in New York City for two week-long intensive residencies during the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters/sessions.

The NYSID program balances conceptual and practical techniques for successful lighting designs. The curriculum includes studio classes which cover both conceptual designs and hands-on projects, allowing students to tailor their portfolios with a blend of commercial, residential and retail projects. Design studios are supplemented by courses covering the science of light, luminaires and light sources, natural and artificial lighting. 

• The program is a full-time, one full-year commitment

• Classes are in the evenings, Monday through Thursday, with two week-long intensives in NYC

• The program is offered on-site and online (live classes delivered via videoconferencing at set class times)

• Applicants must have a degree in interior design, architecture, engineering or theatrical lighting (related fields will be considered if applicant is able to demonstrate aptitude and sufficient preparation to succeed)

• All applicants must submit a portfolio of recent work, including architectural and interior designs, photography, sketches, and lighting studies.

The MPS Lighting distance option has been approved by the New York State Education Department and is pending approval by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), one of the New York School of Interior Design’s institutional accreditors.

Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design curriculum (30 Credits)

Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design Faculty

The MPSL faculty are working professionals, including studio principals, recipients of Lumen and Illumination Awards, and lighting industry leaders, as well as chairs from various lighting industry committees. The faculty and students that you meet will become your mentors and peers as you begin a professional career in lighting design.

Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design Advisory Board

Stephen Bernstein, IALD, IES, principal, Cline Bettridge Bernstein Lighting Design
Renee Joosten, lighting design director, iCrave
Charles Pavarini III, principal, Charles Pavarini III Design Associates
William Schwinghammer, principal, Schwinghammer Lighting
Jean Sundin, IESNA, IALD, PLDA , Office for Visual Interaction, Inc. (OVI)
Linnaea Tillett, principal, Tillett Lighting Design Inc.