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The MArch Design Practice at the RCA is a transformative, research led programme that empowers spatial practitioners whether architects, designers or policy-engaged creatives, to make critical, ambitious interventions addressing the planetary crisis. You explore material processes, embodied carbon, carbon accounting, reuse and bio-based materials, while examining how economics, politics and identity intertwine with design. Through flexible core units and college-wide electives, you develop an independent research project tailored to your interests, supported by one-to-one supervision, with the aim of shaping equitable and sustainable 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 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 11 consecutive years, the RCA has been ranked as the world’s number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2025) - attracting artists, designers and communicators from across the globe.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Architecture and Built Environment
Degree
MArch
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Description:
The MArch Design Practice at the RCA is a transformative, research led programme that empowers spatial practitioners whether architects, designers or policy-engaged creatives, to make critical, ambitious interventions addressing the planetary crisis. You explore material processes, embodied carbon, carbon accounting, reuse and bio-based materials, while examining how economics, politics and identity intertwine with design. Through flexible core units and college-wide electives, you develop an independent research project tailored to your interests, supported by one-to-one supervision, with the aim of shaping equitable and sustainable 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 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 11 consecutive years, the RCA has been ranked as the world’s number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2025) - attracting artists, designers and communicators from across the globe.
Admission Requirements
6.5+
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.
19 Jan 2026
1 Year
Sep
Tuition fees
Domestic
15,150 GBP
International
37,000 GBP
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Design Practice MArch
Kensington, London, United Kingdom
12 monthsProgramme duration
37,000 GBPTuition Fee/year
19 Jan, 2026Application Deadline
Architecture and Built EnvironmentMain Subject Area
Programme overview
Main Subject
Architecture and Built Environment
Degree
MArch
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The MArch Design Practice at the RCA is a transformative, research led programme that empowers spatial practitioners whether architects, designers or policy-engaged creatives, to make critical, ambitious interventions addressing the planetary crisis. You explore material processes, embodied carbon, carbon accounting, reuse and bio-based materials, while examining how economics, politics and identity intertwine with design. Through flexible core units and college-wide electives, you develop an independent research project tailored to your interests, supported by one-to-one supervision, with the aim of shaping equitable and sustainable 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 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 11 consecutive years, the RCA has been ranked as the world’s number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2025) - attracting artists, designers and communicators from across the globe.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Architecture and Built Environment
Degree
MArch
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The MArch Design Practice at the RCA is a transformative, research led programme that empowers spatial practitioners whether architects, designers or policy-engaged creatives, to make critical, ambitious interventions addressing the planetary crisis. You explore material processes, embodied carbon, carbon accounting, reuse and bio-based materials, while examining how economics, politics and identity intertwine with design. Through flexible core units and college-wide electives, you develop an independent research project tailored to your interests, supported by one-to-one supervision, with the aim of shaping equitable and sustainable 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 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 11 consecutive years, the RCA has been ranked as the world’s number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2025) - 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:
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
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
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Videos & media
Videos & media