NewSchool believes that a wide range of individuals can find reward and fulfillment in the study of architecture. The instructional program nurtures the artistic passion into professional excellence. Students are challenged with rigorous advancement standards. The faculty includes experienced architects and practicing professionals who develop creative mentorships. NewSchool subscribes to the "learning by doing" thesis of the American philosopher John Dewey. The urban San Diego community is seen as an idea laboratory for architectural innovation. Students are encouraged to intern as soon as their abilities and circumstances allow.

NewSchool strives to meet the ever changing demands of the architectural profession. This requires continuous evaluation and careful consideration of those educational objectives that best attend the fundamental goals of practice, which are health, safety, and the welfare of the public. The educational intent of the architectural program is to pursue those objectives that best support the demands of practice and to simultaneously recognize the need for consistency in architectural instruction.

Architecture is an integrative profession that necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning and exploration. This integration requires the mental agility to learn new disciplines and to communicate effectively; therefore, NewSchool is dedicated to giving students the skills necessary to adapt and excel in changing professional environments.