Overview

The MPhil/PhD Design at the Royal College of Art research topics range from those which are strongly user-focused – such as designing new medical innovations or citizen science through to those which are more experimental – such as designing trust in AI systems or multi-species design. We particularly encourage applications in our strategic design research plan areas including: The future of making; Manufacture and materials; Systems and design; Design for safety; Design for health; Intelligent machines; Data capture and creation; Design science and Design resilience.

Key facts

We are embarking upon a series of refurbishment works at our Kensington campus.

These involve making essential repairs to some areas of our much-loved heritage buildings and improving our facilities for future generations of RCA students and staff.

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Programme Structure

Courses include:

Design curation

Design theory and practice

Painting

Drawing

Printmaking

Global Photographies

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Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months
Part-time
- 48 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

240 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

London, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Materials Science Design Production and Manufacturing Engineering View 92 other Masters in Materials Science 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
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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.

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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

32600 GBP / year

≈ 32600 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

10450 GBP / year

≈ 10450 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.

Check for any work restrictions

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for 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

Key facts

Get more details

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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