Overview

The MA Service Design at the RCA teaches you to apply human centred design methods to complex systems, so you can imagine and prototype new futures that create positive change. You will learn through live, team based projects with commercial, public sector, and social organisations, moving through research, reframing, concept generation, prototyping, and user testing. The programme encourages critical reflection, helping you develop confidence in contributing to the evolution of service design as both a practice and a discipline. You'll be part of a diverse community from different backgrounds, working in a studio-based environment supported by lectures, seminars and tutor guidance. Through this approach, you build the skills, mindset and tools to become a changemaker in business, government or social innovation.

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Programme Structure

In Term 1 you take Service Design Foundation, introducing theories and concepts underpinning service and service design practice, and Service Design Practice, applying tools and methods to a “live” project in collaboration with industry or social partners.

In Term 2, Service Design in Context examines how service design ideas relate to economic, technological, social, and environmental systems and shape implementation. You also take the school-wide unit Grand Challenge, addressing a complex “wicked” problem through cross-disciplinary collaboration.

In Term 3, the Independent Research Project is self-directed, developing a strategic vision and real design interventions, culminating in a public output demonstrating your expertise.

AcrossRCA in Terms 1–2 supports cross-programme collaboration on themed projects addressing cultural, social, environmental, or economic issues.

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Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

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

More details

Applications are now open for September 2026 entry. Round 2 application deadline: 17 March 2026, 12:00 (UK time). Round 3 deadline: Wednesday 3 June 2026(12:00)

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

London, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Industrial Design Design User Experience Design View 43 other Masters in Industrial Design 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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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

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.

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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

37750 GBP / year

≈ 37750 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

15150 GBP / year

≈ 15150 GBP / year

Additional Details

Please refer to the programe webpage for the most up-to-date information on tuition fees, deposits, and additional costs for both home and overseas/ EU students

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.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Service Design.

Available Scholarships

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

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About

Overview

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Programme Structure

Check out the full curriculum

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

Explore more key information

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Make sure you meet all requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

London

Funding

Check for any work restrictions

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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