| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
World-Leading Institution:
Ranked #1 in the world for Art and Design for 9 consecutive years (QS World University Rankings, 2015–2023).
Known for its outstanding teaching, cutting-edge research, and global reputation.
Postgraduate Focus:
The RCA is a postgraduate-only institution, offering MA, MRes, MPhil, and PhD programs.
Programs are interdisciplinary and tailored to enhance both individual creativity and industry engagement.
Location:
Based in London, with campuses in Kensington, Battersea, and White City—all vibrant cultural and creative hubs.
Proximity to London's galleries, museums, and creative industries fosters networking and inspiration.
Collaborative Environment:
The RCA emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, blending art, design, and technology.
Programs often include partnerships with industries like technology, fashion, automotive, and sustainability.
World-Class Faculty:
The RCA faculty includes internationally acclaimed artists, designers, academics, and practitioners.
Students benefit from one-on-one mentorship and access to thought leaders in their fields.
Cutting-Edge Facilities:
The RCA provides state-of-the-art workshops, studios, and research facilities, including 3D printing, virtual reality labs, and material testing labs.
Global Alumni Network:
RCA alumni include some of the most influential figures in art and design, such as David Hockney, Ridley Scott, Zandra Rhodes, Thomas Heatherwick, and Christopher Bailey.
The RCA offers programs in art, design, humanities, and architecture, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and research.
School of Architecture:
MA Architecture
MA Environmental Architecture
School of Arts & Humanities:
MA Contemporary Art Practice
MA Painting
MA Photography
MA Sculpture
School of Communication:
MA Animation
MA Visual Communication
School of Design:
MA Design Products
MA Fashion
MA Intelligent Mobility
MA Service Design
MA Textiles
Doctoral programs are available across disciplines, fostering innovation in fields such as fine art, design innovation, architecture, and communication.
The RCA operates across three campuses in London, each equipped with state-of-the-art facilities tailored to specific disciplines:
Kensington:
Houses programs in fine art, painting, photography, sculpture, and humanities.
Features close proximity to Royal Albert Hall, Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), and Hyde Park.
Battersea:
Focused on design innovation, architecture, and contemporary art practice.
Equipped with cutting-edge workshops, studios, and galleries.
White City:
A hub for collaborative research and innovation, hosting programs in communication and service design.
Focus on Interdisciplinary Innovation:
Programs encourage students to break traditional boundaries between disciplines, blending art, design, technology, and sustainability.
Collaborations with global industries like Jaguar Land Rover, Google, and Apple provide real-world learning experiences.
Research Excellence:
The RCA is a leading research institution, particularly in design-led innovation, social impact, and material exploration.
The Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design is renowned for pioneering socially inclusive design.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities:
The RCA provides resources for entrepreneurial students through its InnovationRCA incubator, which supports start-ups and connects them with investors.
Exhibitions and Networking:
Students regularly showcase their work at high-profile exhibitions like the RCA Graduate Show, attended by industry leaders, curators, and collectors.
Program Type |
Tuition Fees for International Students (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|
|
MA Programs |
$37,000–$42,000 per year |
|
MRes Programs |
$35,000 per year |
|
PhD/MPhil Programs |
$28,000–$30,000 per year |
The RCA offers various scholarships and funding options to support talented students:
RCA Scholarships:
Merit-based and need-based scholarships for outstanding applicants.
Partial or full tuition fee waivers are available.
External Scholarships:
RCA students are eligible for external funding programs, including Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarships.
Student Loans:
UK and EU students may apply for Postgraduate Master’s Loans or Doctoral Loans through government schemes.
Creative Environment:
RCA students are immersed in an atmosphere that fosters creativity and experimentation.
Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines encourage fresh ideas and innovation.
London as a Classroom:
Situated in one of the world’s most vibrant cultural capitals, students have access to world-class museums, galleries, and creative industries.
Clubs and Activities:
The RCA Students’ Union organizes exhibitions, social events, and networking opportunities.
Regular lectures, workshops, and talks by leading industry professionals.
Networking:
With its global reputation, RCA attracts industry leaders, curators, and collectors, providing students with unique opportunities to network and showcase their work.
The RCA is known for producing highly employable graduates who excel in creative industries, with many alumni becoming leaders in their fields.
Graduate Outcomes:
Over 90% of RCA graduates find employment in their chosen fields or pursue entrepreneurial ventures within six months of graduating.
Alumni Success Stories:
David Hockney: World-renowned artist.
Ridley Scott: Acclaimed filmmaker and director.
Zandra Rhodes: Iconic fashion designer.
Thomas Heatherwick: Founder of Heatherwick Studio, responsible for global design projects like the London Olympic Cauldron.
Global Reputation:
The RCA's consistent ranking as the world’s top art and design university speaks to its excellence.
Unparalleled Facilities:
State-of-the-art studios, workshops, and research labs tailored for innovation.
Industry Connections:
Collaboration with leading companies like Google, Apple, and Jaguar Land Rover.
World-Class Faculty:
Learn from accomplished practitioners and innovators in the fields of art and design.
Prime London Location:
Being in London provides students with access to cultural landmarks, exhibitions, and creative industries.
The School of Architecture focuses on shaping visionary architects and environmental designers through experimental practice and critical thinking. Programs include:
MA Architecture: Explores contemporary architectural practice and urban development.
MA Environmental Architecture: Specializes in ecological, sustainable, and environmental approaches to design.
MRes Architecture Pathway: Research-focused program exploring architecture in relation to society, sustainability, and technology.
The School of Arts & Humanities fosters creativity and critical thinking through programs in fine art, humanities, and curatorial studies. Programs include:
MA Contemporary Art Practice: Encompasses diverse practices such as sculpture, performance, painting, and digital art.
MA Painting: Focuses on experimental approaches to painting and fine art.
MA Photography: Combines fine art and photography with cultural and technological exploration.
MA Sculpture: Explores three-dimensional practices using cutting-edge techniques and materials.
MA Curating Contemporary Art: Prepares students for careers in exhibition-making, curatorial practice, and cultural programming.
MRes Humanities: Research-focused program exploring topics in art, culture, and society.
The School of Communication focuses on using art and design as tools for storytelling, engagement, and critical discourse. Programs include:
MA Animation: Specializes in experimental, narrative, and documentary animation practices.
MA Digital Direction: Focuses on creating innovative digital storytelling and immersive experiences.
MA Information Experience Design: Merges information design, user experience, and communication design.
MA Visual Communication: Covers areas such as graphic design, illustration, and digital media.
MRes Communication Design: Research-focused program examining the role of communication in contemporary culture.
The School of Design is globally recognized for its innovative and industry-focused programs in design thinking, systems, and practice. Programs include:
MA Design Products: Focuses on product design, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
MA Fashion: Covers fashion design, textiles, and accessories, emphasizing sustainability and global trends.
MA Intelligent Mobility: A pioneering program in automotive, transport, and mobility design.
MA Service Design: Specializes in designing user-focused systems and services for public and private sectors.
MA Textiles: Explores textile design, innovation, and materials research.
MRes Design Pathway: Research-focused program investigating the future of design, technology, and culture.
The RCA is a leading research institution, offering MPhil and PhD degrees in art, design, and humanities. These programs focus on cutting-edge research in areas such as:
Fine art and visual culture.
Design innovation and sustainability.
Architecture and urbanism.
Communication and media.
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MA Architecture |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Environmental Architecture |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Contemporary Art Practice |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Painting |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Photography |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Sculpture |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Curating Contemporary Art |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Animation |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Digital Direction |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Information Experience Design |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Visual Communication |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Design Products |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Fashion |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Intelligent Mobility |
15 months (FT) |
$48,000 |
|
MA Service Design |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MA Textiles |
2 years |
$42,000 |
|
MRes Architecture Pathway |
1 year |
$35,000 |
|
MRes Humanities Pathway |
1 year |
$35,000 |
|
MRes Design Pathway |
1 year |
$35,000 |
|
MRes Communication Design Pathway |
1 year |
$35,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Architecture |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Design Innovation |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Fine Art |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Communication |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Humanities |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Architecture |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Intelligent Mobility Design |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Sculpture |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Fashion |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
|
PhD in Textiles |
3–4 years (full-time) |
$30,000 |
Global Reputation:
RCA is recognized worldwide as a leader in creative education, fostering innovation and originality in its students.
Its alumni include some of the most influential names in the creative industry, such as David Hockney, Ridley Scott, Zandra Rhodes, and Thomas Heatherwick.
Postgraduate-Only Institution:
RCA exclusively offers Master’s (MA, MRes) and Doctoral (PhD/MPhil) programs, providing specialized education for international students looking to advance their creative careers.
Diverse Student Community:
With students from over 70 countries, RCA is a vibrant and multicultural institution, creating a global network of artists, designers, and innovators.
Location in London:
The RCA's campuses in Kensington, Battersea, and White City are located in the heart of London, providing access to world-class galleries, museums, creative industries, and cultural hubs.
Industry Partnerships:
RCA collaborates with leading global companies, including Apple, Google, Jaguar Land Rover, and IDEO, giving students access to real-world projects and career opportunities.
Focus on Innovation and Research:
RCA offers a research-led education and supports practice-based learning. It provides cutting-edge facilities for areas like virtual reality, 3D printing, intelligent mobility, and sustainable design.
The RCA offers a wide range of programs for international students:
Architecture: MA Architecture, MA Environmental Architecture.
Fine Art: MA Contemporary Art Practice, MA Painting, MA Photography, MA Sculpture.
Design: MA Design Products, MA Fashion, MA Intelligent Mobility, MA Service Design, MA Textiles.
Communication: MA Animation, MA Digital Direction, MA Visual Communication.
Curating and Humanities: MA Curating Contemporary Art.
MRes (Master of Research): Research-focused Master’s programs in architecture, design, and humanities.
PhD and MPhil: Practice-based and theoretical research in art, design, architecture, and communication.
Explore the RCA’s postgraduate programs across art, design, architecture, communication, and humanities on the.
Review the course descriptions, including specializations, entry requirements, and tuition fees.
Decide on the program that best fits your career goals and creative aspirations.
Master’s (MA, MRes):
A recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (2:1 honors degree or higher preferred).
For some programs, professional experience may be considered in place of a degree.
Submission of a portfolio demonstrating your creative work is mandatory.
PhD/MPhil:
A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent.
Strong academic record and research experience in your chosen field.
Submission of a detailed research proposal is required.
For non-native English speakers:
IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0).
Equivalent tests (e.g., TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic) are also accepted.
Pre-sessional English courses are available for students who do not meet the language requirements.
Certain programs (e.g., Animation, Sculpture, or Fashion) may require additional submissions such as:
A portfolio of creative work.
Specific experience in areas like film, textiles, or product design.
Your application must include the following:
Required Document |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Online Application Form |
Complete the online application via the RCA’s official portal. |
|
Portfolio |
A curated portfolio of your best creative work that showcases your skills, innovation, and potential. |
|
Academic Transcripts |
Official transcripts from your previous degree(s). |
|
Personal Statement |
A 500–1,000 word statement outlining your motivations, career goals, and reasons for applying to RCA. |
|
Reference Letters |
Two references (academic or professional) supporting your application. |
|
English Language Test Results |
If applicable, proof of your English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent). |
|
Research Proposal (PhD only) |
A detailed proposal that outlines your research objectives, methodology, and potential contributions to the field. |
|
CV/Resume |
A detailed CV highlighting your academic background, professional experience, and creative achievements. |
Applications must be submitted via the RCA’s Online Application Portal: Apply Here.
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded in the correct format.
Pay the application fee:
Master’s programs: Approx. £100 (USD ~$125).
PhD/MPhil programs: Approx. £75 (USD ~$95).
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview with the RCA admissions team and faculty.
The interview process typically includes:
Discussion of your portfolio, academic background, and creative goals.
Exploration of how your skills and interests align with the program.
Interviews can be conducted in person or online for international applicants.
Once your application has been reviewed (and interview completed, if applicable), you will receive one of the following:
Unconditional Offer: You have met all requirements and are offered a place in the program.
Conditional Offer: Admission is contingent upon meeting certain criteria (e.g., achieving specific grades, providing missing documents, or improving English language scores).
Rejection: If your application does not meet the requirements, the RCA will provide feedback.
Log into the RCA admissions portal to accept your offer.
Pay the deposit fee (usually £2,000–£3,000, depending on the program) to secure your place.
International students will need a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) to study in the UK.
Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS):
The RCA will issue your CAS once you’ve accepted the offer and paid your deposit.
Prepare Financial Proof:
You’ll need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs.
Submit Visa Application:
Apply for the visa online via the UK Government’s website and attend a biometric appointment.
English Language Proof:
If required, provide evidence of your English language proficiency.
The RCA generally follows one primary intake period for all its programs:
Intake Period |
Start Date |
Programs Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
September Intake |
Early September |
All MA, MRes, and PhD/MPhil programs. |
The September intake is the main start date for RCA’s academic year.
Applications typically open one year in advance of the intake.
Some research programs (PhD/MPhil) may have rolling admissions or flexibility with start dates, depending on the availability of supervisors and research projects.
Early application is highly recommended due to the competitive nature of the programs and limited places.
Academic Qualifications:
A recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
UK equivalent: Second-class honors (2:1 or above) is preferred.
International equivalent: Degrees recognized by the UK ENIC (National Recognition Information Centre).
Some programs may consider applicants with significant professional experience in place of formal academic qualifications.
Portfolio Requirements:
A portfolio of creative work is mandatory for all MA programs.
The portfolio must demonstrate your creative skills, innovation, and suitability for the program.
Programs like Fashion, Animation, and Architecture may have additional portfolio specifications, such as project descriptions or technical drawings.
English Language Proficiency:
For applicants whose first language is not English, the following are required:
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0.
Equivalent qualifications:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 62.
Pre-sessional English courses are available for students who do not meet the required scores.
Additional Requirements (Program-Specific):
Certain courses may require:
Professional experience or prior work in the field (e.g., MA Fashion, MA Service Design).
Specific knowledge of technical tools (e.g., 3D modeling for MA Intelligent Mobility).
Written statements, videos, or project proposals as part of the application.
Academic Qualifications:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required.
Applicants with exceptional Bachelor’s degrees and strong research proposals may also be considered.
A strong academic record with demonstrated ability to undertake independent research.
Research Proposal:
Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal, including:
Research objectives.
Methodology and timeline.
Context and potential contribution to the field.
The proposal must align with the RCA’s areas of expertise and research priorities.
Portfolio Requirements:
For practice-based PhD programs (e.g., in Fine Art, Design, or Architecture), a portfolio of creative work is required.
English Language Proficiency:
Same as MA requirements:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with no band lower than 6.0.
Other equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE) are accepted.
Additional Requirements:
Applicants are encouraged to contact a potential supervisor before submitting their application to ensure alignment with their research area.
Work experience or professional practice may strengthen the application, particularly for practice-based PhDs.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefit/Value |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
RCA International Scholarship |
- Open to all international students. |
Up to £10,000 (~$12,500 USD) |
Automatically considered during the admissions process if you indicate financial need. |
|
Design Trust RCA Fellowships |
- Students from Hong Kong or China. |
Full or partial tuition fee waiver |
Submit a separate fellowship application form after applying for admission. |
|
Tony Snowdon Scholarship |
- Disabled students pursuing any program. |
Up to £30,000 (~$37,500 USD) over 2 years |
Submit an application via the RCA website, including proof of disability and financial need. |
|
The Grand Fund |
- All students enrolled in MA or PhD programs. |
amounts toward tuition fees |
Submit a detailed application, including a personal statement and financial need explanation. |
|
Soirée d'Étudiants Scholarship |
- Open to international and UK students. |
Up to £5,000 (~$6,250 USD) |
Apply via the RCA scholarship portal with supporting documents. |
|
HEC-RCA Scholarships |
- Students from Pakistan. |
Partial or full tuition fee coverage |
Apply through HEC Pakistan in coordination with RCA. |
|
J. Sainsbury Scholarship |
- Students in School of Arts & Humanities programs. |
Up to £15,000 (~$18,750 USD) |
Indicate interest during application or contact the scholarship office after admission. |
|
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships |
- Students from eligible Commonwealth countries. |
Full tuition fees and living expenses |
Apply via the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) website. |
|
Chevening Scholarship |
- International students from eligible countries. |
Full tuition fees and living expenses |
Apply via the Chevening website. |
|
Alumni Scholarships |
- RCA graduates continuing onto postgraduate study (e.g., MPhil to PhD). |
10% tuition fee discount |
Automatically applied for eligible alumni during admission. |
Campus Name |
Location |
Key Features |
Programs Based Here |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kensington Campus |
Kensington Gore, London |
- Iconic campus near Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, and Victoria and Albert Museum. |
Architecture, Fine Art (Painting, Sculpture), Humanities. |
|
Battersea Campus |
Battersea, London |
- Home to the School of Design and School of Arts & Humanities. |
Design (Product, Fashion, Textiles, Service Design), Fine Art. |
|
White City Campus |
White City, London |
- Focused on communication and research programs. |
Animation, Visual Communication, Digital Direction, Research. |
RCA does not own or operate dedicated student housing but provides guidance on off-campus accommodation in London. Students can choose from private housing, shared flats, or student accommodation providers. Below are the available options:
Accommodation Type |
Details |
Cost Per Week (Approx. in USD) |
Cost Per Month (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University of London Housing Services (ULHS) |
- RCA students have access to ULHS, which offers private student housing listings and advice. |
typically $250–$400 |
$1,000–$1,600 |
|
Private Student Halls |
- Managed by companies like Unite Students, Chapter London, and IQ Student Accommodation. |
$300–$500 |
$1,200–$2,000 |
|
Shared Flats/Private Rentals |
- Renting a room in a shared flat or house near RCA campuses (e.g., Kensington, Battersea, or White City). |
$250–$450 |
$1,000–$1,800 |
|
Studio Apartments |
- Ideal for students seeking privacy. |
$400–$700 |
$1,600–$2,800 |
|
Homestay Accommodation |
- Live with a host family in London. |
$200–$350 |
$800–$1,400 |
Interdisciplinary Learning:
Students collaborate across disciplines such as art, design, architecture, and communication, encouraging innovation and experimentation.
The RCA places a strong emphasis on practice-based and research-led education.
World-Class Facilities:
Cutting-edge workshops and studios equipped for 3D printing, virtual reality, textile design, and more.
State-of-the-art facilities for photography, animation, ceramics, sculpture, and printmaking.
Exhibitions and Graduate Shows:
Students regularly exhibit their work in RCA galleries or participate in the RCA Graduate Show, attended by industry leaders, curators, and recruiters.
London offers endless opportunities to showcase work in the city’s galleries and creative spaces.
Global Student Body:
The RCA welcomes students from over 70 countries, creating a rich and diverse community.
Exposure to a variety of perspectives enhances collaboration and fosters creativity.
Inclusivity:
The RCA supports students from all backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive learning and social environment.
Events such as cultural festivals and discussions promote understanding and connection between students.
RCA Students’ Union (RCA SU):
The Students' Union plays an integral role in student life by organizing exhibitions, social events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Clubs and societies cater to a wide range of interests, including photography, sustainability, gaming, and fashion.
Guest Lectures and Workshops:
The RCA hosts regular lectures, talks, and masterclasses led by industry leaders, renowned artists, and innovators from fields such as technology, fashion, and design.
Events and Networking Opportunities:
Students can attend industry-led events, gallery openings, and cultural celebrations in London.
The RCA connects students with its alumni network and industry partners through events like hackathons, creative workshops, and career fairs.
The RCA operates across three campuses in London (Kensington, Battersea, and White City), all offering a range of amenities:
Study Spaces: Modern libraries, quiet study zones, and open workspaces for collaboration.
Workshops and Studios: Facilities for painting, sculpture, animation, textiles, and multimedia creation.
Galleries and Exhibitions: Each campus hosts exhibitions of student work as well as curated art shows.
Proximity to London’s Cultural Hubs:
Campuses are located near some of London’s top cultural landmarks, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tate Modern, Design Museum, and Hyde Park.
London is one of the world’s most exciting cities, offering endless opportunities for inspiration, cultural enrichment, and entertainment.
Cultural Activities:
Access to world-famous museums, galleries, theaters, and live music venues, often with student discounts.
Free admission to major galleries such as the National Gallery, Tate Britain, and The British Museum.
Affordable Living:
While London is one of the more expensive cities in the UK, RCA provides guidance for students on budgeting and finding affordable accommodation.
Many discounts for students are available for transportation, events, and restaurants.
Transport and Accessibility:
RCA students can take advantage of discounted Oyster cards for London’s public transport system, including buses, trains, and the Underground (tube).
Students often cycle or walk between campuses, with bike storage available on-site.
Part-Time Jobs:
International students with a Student Visa are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Part-time opportunities include jobs in retail, hospitality, or assisting in creative studios or galleries.
Career Support:
The RCA’s Careers and Employability Service helps students prepare for life after graduation with:
Career counseling and workshops.
CV and portfolio reviews.
Industry networking opportunities.
InnovationRCA:
RCA’s Innovation Hub supports students and alumni in launching creative start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures.
Access to mentorship, funding, and business training.
The RCA prioritizes the wellbeing of its students, offering a variety of resources and support services:
Counseling Services: Free and confidential mental health support for students.
Wellbeing Advisors: On-campus advisors provide guidance on personal and academic challenges.
Disability Support: Tailored assistance for students with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
While RCA does not provide on-campus accommodation, it offers extensive support for students looking for housing in London. Popular options include:
Private Student Halls:
Managed by providers like Unite Students, Chapter London, and IQ Student Accommodation.
Located close to RCA campuses, these halls offer ensuite rooms, shared kitchens, and social spaces.
Shared Apartments or Rentals:
Renting a room or sharing a flat with fellow students is a cost-effective option.
Homestays:
Living with a local family for a more affordable and culturally immersive experience.
One of the highlights of RCA student life is the RCA Graduate Show, an annual event where final-year students showcase their projects and creative works to industry leaders, recruiters, and the public.
Benefits of the Graduate Show:
Opportunity to gain exposure and network with professionals.
Many students secure job offers or commissions as a result of their participation.
RCA’s alumni network spans over 20,000 graduates worldwide, including iconic artists, designers, and innovators like:
David Hockney (artist).
Thomas Heatherwick (designer of the Olympic cauldron).
Zandra Rhodes (fashion designer).
Ridley Scott (filmmaker).
Current students benefit from mentoring opportunities, career advice, and connections through this global network.
RCA’s courses are designed to connect students with leading companies, organizations, and practitioners in their respective fields.
Many RCA programs include live projects, allowing students to work directly with global industry leaders such as:
Jaguar Land Rover
Apple
Burberry
IBM
IDEO
Rolls-Royce
These projects allow students to solve real-world challenges, gain experience, and showcase their talents to prospective employers.
InnovationRCA is the university’s business incubator that helps students and alumni turn their creative ideas into successful businesses.
Start-Up Support:
Provides mentoring, workshops, and funding opportunities for creative entrepreneurs.
Seed Funding:
Offers financial support to early-stage businesses.
Commercialization Assistance:
Helps students secure patents, protect intellectual property, and market their designs.
RCA has incubated over 75 start-ups, which have collectively raised over £80 million (USD ~$100 million).
Notable businesses include:
Plumis: Fire safety design.
Kano: DIY computer kits for kids.
Gravity Sketch: A virtual reality design tool.
The RCA is ranked among the world’s top universities for graduate employability in art and design. Employers actively seek RCA graduates due to their combination of creative skills, critical thinking, and practical expertise.
Graduate Outcomes:
Over 90% of RCA graduates secure employment or launch their own businesses within six months of graduating.
Graduates find roles in fields such as automotive design, fine art, animation, architecture, fashion, and graphic design.
Employment Destinations:
RCA graduates have gone on to work for top companies, including:
Nike
BBC
Dyson
Tate Modern
Alexander McQueen
Arup
Sony
Self-Employed (as independent artists, designers, or entrepreneurs).
The RCA provides dedicated career support services to help students achieve their professional goals.
CV and Portfolio Reviews:
Assistance in creating professional CVs and portfolios tailored to creative industries.
Interview Preparation:
Mock interviews and guidance to prepare students for job opportunities.
Networking Opportunities:
Industry-led events, alumni talks, and workshops connecting students with professionals.
Job Portal:
An exclusive online portal listing internships, freelance opportunities, and full-time positions.
Students receive personalized guidance from RCA’s Careers Team, focusing on their individual career paths and aspirations.
Many RCA courses are designed to include opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their industries. Below are examples of specific programs and their placement/recruitment opportunities:
Program |
Industry Links and Career Opportunities |
|---|---|
|
MA Intelligent Mobility |
Partnerships with Jaguar Land Rover, BMW, and Tesla prepare students for careers in transport design. |
|
MA Fashion |
Graduates often work with brands like Burberry, Alexander McQueen, and Nike, or launch their own labels. |
|
MA Design Products |
Collaborations with tech companies such as Google, Dyson, and Philips. |
|
MA Animation |
Many graduates secure roles at Disney, DreamWorks, BBC, or in gaming and film industries. |
|
MA Visual Communication |
Students often work with media companies like The Guardian, Sky, and Channel 4. |
|
MA Textiles |
Partnerships with luxury brands such as Hermès, Chanel, and Vivienne Westwood. |
|
MA Architecture |
Opportunities with firms like Foster + Partners, Arup, and Zaha Hadid Architects. |
The RCA boasts a global alumni network of over 20,000 graduates, including some of the most prominent figures in art and design. Current students benefit from this network through mentorship programs, alumni-led workshops, and networking events.
David Hockney – Renowned artist.
Thomas Heatherwick – Designer of the London Olympic Cauldron and the Vessel in New York.
Ridley Scott – Acclaimed filmmaker and director of films like Blade Runner and Gladiator.
Zandra Rhodes – Iconic fashion designer.
RCA programs often integrate internships or opportunities for students to work with industry partners. While these are not formal placements, they provide invaluable real-world experience.
Students often secure internships in leading design studios, fashion houses, and media organizations during their studies.
The RCA’s strong industry connections help students access internships tailored to their field of study.
International students on a Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Students often take part-time roles in London’s thriving creative scene, such as assisting in galleries, studios, or fashion events.
International students graduating from the RCA are eligible for the UK Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates).
No sponsorship required, enabling graduates to work, freelance, or start a business in the UK.
Students can gain valuable experience in the UK’s creative industries, one of the largest and most dynamic in the world.
RCA graduates are highly employable and command competitive salaries in their respective industries. Below are average starting salaries by field:
Industry |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Automotive Design |
$50,000–$75,000 |
|
Fashion and Textiles |
$40,000–$60,000 |
|
Architecture |
$45,000–$65,000 |
|
Animation/Film |
$40,000–$70,000 |
|
Graphic/Communication Design |
$35,000–$50,000 |
|
Fine Art (Self-Employed) |
Varies (commissions and exhibitions). |
Thomas Heatherwick (Designer):
Founder of Heatherwick Studio, responsible for iconic designs like the London Olympic Cauldron and Google’s HQ.
Ridley Scott (Filmmaker):
Graduated from RCA’s School of Design and became an award-winning director of films like The Martian and Alien.
Plumis (InnovationRCA Start-Up):
An RCA start-up that revolutionized fire safety design, now used worldwide.
Gravity Sketch (VR Tool):
Founded by RCA graduates, this virtual reality design tool is now used by companies like Ford and Adidas.
Program Popularity:
Certain programs are more competitive than others due to their popularity and industry demand.
For example:
Programs like Fashion, Animation, Architecture, and Design Products receive a high volume of applications.
Niche programs like Service Design or Environmental Architecture may have slightly higher acceptance rates.
International Applications:
A significant portion of RCA’s applicants are international students, further increasing competition.
Admissions Criteria:
Applicants must meet strict academic qualifications, submit a strong portfolio, and provide a compelling personal statement or research proposal.
Campus Name |
Location |
Key Features |
Programs Based Here |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kensington Campus |
Kensington Gore, London SW7 2EU |
- Located in the heart of London's cultural district, near Hyde Park and Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A). |
Architecture, Fine Art (Painting, Sculpture), Humanities. |
|
Battersea Campus |
Howie Street, London SW11 4AY |
- A hub for design and contemporary art disciplines. |
Design (Fashion, Product, Textiles, Service Design), Fine Art. |
|
White City Campus |
Wood Lane, London W12 7FR |
- A modern campus in west London’s creative district. |
Animation, Visual Communication, Digital Direction, Research. |
