How could subversive imagination be a trigger for transforming the current environmental, political and cultural crisis into desirable futures? This MA Program explores the instrumentalization of critical design in the creation of an impactful change within specific spatial contexts.  

In a time marked by global challenges—climate crisis, political polarization, war, and social inequality—critical contextual design that imagines hopeful futures is more vital than ever. It uses critical thinking to impact society, cities, and environments, while engaging with history, current debates, and contemporary practices that challenge dominant narratives.

Over one academic year, the program blends theory, research, and practice led by international architects, artists, writers, activists, curators, and publishers. Students gain diverse perspectives on today’s key issues and tools to contribute to global conversations around geopolitics, spatial justice, environmental and climate activism, care, identity politics, feminism, extractivism, non-human rights, political design, critical architecture and urban alternatives—through experimental critique and design research.

Open to students from diverse backgrounds—especially in architecture, art, design, curating, activism, environmental and visual studies, performance, journalism etc—and to those interested in politics, ecology, and the social impact of critical design. The program culminates in a Master Thesis that includes a theoretical framework, critical positioning, research methodology, and a design outcome such as a film, performance, object, graphic work, or dissemination project.