The founding premises of the International Center for Sustainable New Cities are twofold. On the one hand, the world is in the midst of dramatic physical and sociological upheaval. Environmental concerns, limited energy resources, population growth, and booming economic development in areas formerly designated as "third world" have profoundly altered the global perspective and the way we view the future and present. With an estimated 1.25 million people moving from rural conditions to urban centers each week, we are witnessing the largest single migration in human history—with all of its concomitant benefits and problems.

At the same time, the practice of architecture in recent years has likewise undergone a radical change. Global practice, digital technologies, the scale of projects, and environmental awareness have profoundly altered the nature of design, often blurring the distinctions between architecture, engineering, urban design, and landscape architecture. In addition to the profession's traditional issues, architects must now confront the implications of a major energy, ecological, and housing crisis. The education of architects must likewise respond.

For application information to the graduate or doctoral programs see the College of Architecture web site.