Overview

In the MA Architecture at the Royal College of Art you will be asked to challenge previous assumptions and try new approaches, to embrace reflective research and to deepen your understanding of complex issues, and to redefine what architecture can be.

Key facts

Preparing you for the future, we’ll cover all the relevant criteria for professional Part 2 qualification. But you’ll also learn to work in a critical way, with the benefits that come from being part of an interdisciplinary art and design school.

Graduates not only go on to work in leading architecture practices as well as start their own, but also to research, write and exhibit around architecture, and to work in many related fields such as planning, policy, gaming, animation, theatre, film, and fine arts.

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) part II and Architects Registration Board (ARB) validated since 1983.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

In Architectural Design Studios you work in vertically integrated studios led by 2–3 tutors, developing your own design research through crits, reviews in a collaborative environment. History & Theory Studies you explore political roots of spatial practices, tracing themes like landscape, care, or domestication across time. Design Strategy develops a written brief and thesis proposal forming the basis for your Independent Research Project. Studio III/Independent Research Project involves self-directed work producing drawings, digital work, and a final portfolio with critical reflection. Professional Practice covers real-world delivery, legislation and social justice. Technical Studies develops knowledge of construction, engineering, environment, and sustainable design. Media Studies examines historical and contemporary methodologies.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-14 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-03 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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Credits

240 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

London, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Architecture View 196 other Masters in Architecture in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and from all over the world.
RCA alumni come from a wide range of backgrounds and industries, bringing diverse experiences including those unrelated to art, which enrich the creative community and drive fresh perspectives.
As part of your application, you may need to submit:
- A portfolio showcasing your work and artistic vision.
- A personal statement (around 300 words) describing your interests, motivations, and future goals.
- An introduction video (maximum 2 minutes) to introduce yourself and explain your artistic approach and project ideas.
To help you prepare your application, we host regular portfolio and video Q&A sessions. Please visit the RCA website to learn more about these events and to register.
Please refer to the programme webpage for the most accurate and up to date information on entry requirements for this programme.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29000 GBP / year

≈ 29000 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

9525 GBP / year

≈ 9525 GBP / year

Living costs

London

United Kingdom

1137 - 2157 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

RCA offers a wide range of funding opportunities to support postgraduate study, including a variety of tuition fee and living cost scholarships.

Beyond financial support, many of these scholarships also provide networking opportunities with peers, partnership organisations and professional bodies to enhance your experience.

You can find more information about available scholarships and their eligibility criteria here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/funding-your-studies/rca-scholarships-and-awards/

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Architecture.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Key facts

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

London

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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