12 monthsProgramme duration
40,200 GBPTuition Fee/year
08 Jan, 2027Application Deadline
SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Architecture and Built Environment
Degree
MArch
Study Level
Master's
Study Mode
On Campus
The Design Practice MArch at the RCA is a transformative, research-led programme for architects, designers, spatial and creative practitioners responding to the planetary crisis. 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.
Programme structure:
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.
Referring to the website:
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. About RCA:
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 overview
Main Subject
Architecture and Built Environment
Degree
MArch
Study Level
Master's
Study Mode
On Campus
The Design Practice MArch at the RCA is a transformative, research-led programme for architects, designers, spatial and creative practitioners responding to the planetary crisis. 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.
Programme structure:
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.
Referring to the website:
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. About RCA:
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.
Admission Requirements
English Language requirements:
Please refer to the programme webpage for the most accurate and up-to-date information on English language requirements.
You can also find further details on English language requirements, approved English language tests, equivalent IELTS scores, exempt criteria, and more through the link below.
https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/english-language-requirements/
Entry Requirement:
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.
- Candidates are required to submit an essay(s) for acceptance
Tuition fees
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Scholarships
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