Students base their study in one of the four Textiles specialisms: Knit, Mixed Media, Print and Weave and orientate their study in the context of 'Body' or 'Space'.

• Body – involves fabric design for fashion, accessories and clothing, incorporating issues such as health, well-being and smart wearables
• Space – incorporates textile and material design for the built environment, interiors, furnishings and transport.

Both pathways will take relevant contemporary issues into strong consideration such as market knowledge, sustainability and manufacture.

Textile students employ traditional and innovative skills, while exploring constantly evolving materials and technology to create diverse and surprising results. These aspects encourage a dynamic and challenging environment, frequently employing multidisciplinary and collaborative methods to express the breadth of textiles, and pushing the boundaries of current textile practice.

During the first year, students are required to take part in induction programmes using our equipment and technology, to ensure that they have adequate specialist skills. Practical instruction in dyeing, fabric and fibre technologies is provided. Industrial projects are included to introduce students to a great variety of design experiences. Collaborative work is strongly encouraged in the School and across the College.

Progress is monitored through tutorials, group critiques, work reviews and seminars. All students must pass a formal Interim Exam to progress to the second year, when they are expected to direct their work towards a specified context. The staff team work within the specialisms and interact with all the Textile students. They are all involved in external professional practice and research.

Our links with industry, practising designers, artists and craftspeople brings valuable and realistic input to the programme.

As part of the experience of being at the RCA, all MA students, except those in the School of Humanities, attend a programme of lectures organised by Critical and Historical Studies during their first year at the College. This work culminates in the submission of a dissertation, which is a requirement for all MA students (see MA College-wide Programme).

The Textiles programme supports career development by tailoring professional practice provision for students to the culture of the discipline. Information, training and advice on work and life skills are also available centrally through FuelRCA.