Overview
You explore material processes, embodied carbon, reuse, emerging technologies and bio-based materials, while critically engaging with the economic, political and social dimensions of the built environment. Through core and college-wide elective units, you develop interdisciplinary approaches to design and research, culminating in an independent research project focused on more equitable, sustainable and just futures. Design Practice programme is offered at Royal College of Art.
Key facts
Please refer to the programme webpage for the most accurate and up-to-date information about the programme, its structure, modules and any updates or changes.
The Royal College of Art is the world’s leading postgraduate art and design university, providing students with unrivalled opportunities to develop their practice, build their networks, enhance their career and to deliver art and design projects that transform the world.
For 12 consecutive years, the RCA has been ranked as the world’s number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2026) - attracting artists, designers and communicators from across the globe.
Programme Structure
Curriculum:
- Term 1
In term 1, you take Material Processes and Carbon Economies, focusing on materiality in the built environment and the role of carbon in the global construction industry.
In the same term, you choose two college-wide electives, enabling you to engage with cross disciplinary approaches from across the RCA.
- Term 2
In term 2, you take Detailing Risk and Just Transition, where you explore design detailing through failure and speculative futures of climate justice and spatial change.
In the same term, you choose two college-wide electives, enabling you to engage with cross disciplinary approaches from across the RCA.
- Term 3
In term 3, you take the Independent Research Project, developing a self-led investigation into design practice, systems, and planetary futures.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
- Part-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
-
- Round 1 deadline: Friday 8 January 2027 (12:00)
- Round 2 deadline: Tuesday 23 March 2027 (12:00)
Language
IELTS & PTE Test Preparation
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- Study on your own schedule
- Live classes with current and ex-examiners
- Accurate score assesment, always
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Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- London, United Kingdom
Disciplines
Architecture Design Landscape Architecture View 201 other Masters in Architecture in United KingdomWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
IELTS & PTE Test Preparation
Admission to your dream university starts with a high IELTS or PTE score. Earn your target score with E2's guided test preparation.
- Study on your own schedule
- Live classes with current and ex-examiners
- Accurate score assesment, always
- E2 Score Guarantee - Get your score or your money back!
Other requirements
General requirements
RCA welcomes 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
-
International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents40200 GBP / year≈ 40200 GBP / year -
Domestic Applies to you
Applies to youCitizens or residents15900 GBP / year≈ 15900 GBP / year
Living costs
London
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.
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Design Practice.
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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