Academics
96%
graduate
in 4 years
75%
enroll in college or
career programs
12
advanced placement
and college-level
courses available
21st Century Classrooms
New Design is an educational pioneer in this rapidly evolving world, and in preparing our students to evolve with it, our 21st Century Learning approach is central. Our educational efforts are designed with a broader college-and-career-ready vision that emphasizes a blend of technology-enhanced instruction, collaborative learning environments, and real-world problem-solving opportunities. The focus is on students gaining the tools they need to thrive in college, career, and civic life.
Our classrooms integrate creativity and digital literacy in order to give students access to modern technology, STEM opportunities, and innovative courses and electives that not only broaden students' horizons but promote critical executive functioning skills as well, bolstering their future success. Whether they’re designing multimedia projects or collaborating with peers on interdisciplinary challenges, students develop essential skills that mirror the expectations of today’s colleges and workplaces. This approach not only deepens academic understanding but also builds confidence and adaptability—major keys to a lifelong learning mindset!
See
our course catalog below.
Advanced Placement Courses
We’re committed to offering a rigorous academic pathway that prepares students for success in college and beyond. Our Advanced Placement (AP) program is a key part of that mission. Students have the opportunity to enroll in college‑level AP courses such as AP English Language & Composition, AP English Literature & Composition, AP U.S. History, AP World History, and AP Studio Art (2D).
These courses challenge students to think critically, engage in deep inquiry, and demonstrate mastery of content at college standards. By enrolling in AP courses, students gain a competitive edge: they experience what college‑level work is like, build stronger study habits, and often earn college credit or advanced placement at universities.
Moreover, our AP offerings complement our broader college‑prep pathway, where students also have access to advanced math, science, and world language courses.
Early College Courses
We believe it is never too early to begin the college process. Enrolling in ECE courses gives students a leg up on the college process, making them more attractive to colleges during their application process. They also begin mastering the blended and online learning model, now making up over 50% of college offerings.
New Design is partnered with the National Education Opportunity Network (NEON) to offer two credit-bearing college courses to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students each semester. Taught by college professors and university teaching fellows, these courses are completely free and typically occur during the school day. Past course offerings have included Psychology from Howard University, Sociology from Arizona State University, and the History of Clothing from Barnard University—all credits transferable.
Students can also take CollegeNOW Courses via CUNY Kingsborough on Saturday and evenings. These courses challenge students to experience college, earn free early college credits, and demonstrate mastery of content at college standards.
College Resources
New Design Graduates
New Design grads attend a variety of colleges, including:
- Northeastern University
- Boston College
- Fordham University
- Stony Brook University
- CUNY Macaulay Honors College
- The New School (Parsons School of Design)
- SUNY Binghamton
- SUNY Albany
- California Institute of the Arts
- Hunter College
- St. John's University
- Fashion Institute of Technology
- Baruch College
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Howard University
- SUNY Cortland
...and so many others!
Check out the Course Catalog for Fall 2025!
Ready to apply to New Design High?
Visit our admissions page to learn how!
