Update you browser

For the best experience, we recommend you update your browser. Visit our accessibility page for a list of supported browsers. Alternatively, you can continue using your current browser by closing this message.

Whether you have a creative background or you’re a career-changer – become part of our global network of innovators.

Key details

Date

  • 1 November 2022

Read time

  • 1 minute
Students soldering in workshop


Why choose the RCA?


Teaching and research expertise

  • The opportunity to learn from world-leading academic staff. We are the only UK art and design university where all academics are research active – meaning everything we teach is related to cutting-edge research.

Renowned alumni

  • Our 20,000 alumni are leaders in their disciplines, making national and international headlines. Alumni include Henry Moore, Bridget Riley, David Hockney, Sir Ridley Scott, Sir Frank Bowling, Sir James Dyson, Tracey Emin, Philip Treacy, Christopher Bailey and Thomas Heatherwick.

Creative networks

  • The RCA is the world’s largest concentration of postgraduate artists and designers, representing the largest talent-base and most opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration available at Master’s and doctoral level.

Global hub

  • A central London location internationally renowned for creativity, culture and innovation with easy access to the rest of the UK and Europe to complete your international experience.

Where do...

Team Shellworks, 2021


Engineers grow new materials from bacteria?

Shellworks was co-founded by RCA alumni to create a plastic-free future. They work with bacteria to produce materials that are truly compostable, aesthetic, performant and cost competitive.


Learn more


OR_BITAL_BLOOM data-driven artworks


Artists generate gardens from data?

Orbital Bloom is a virtual garden that combines data reporting with the creativity of digital arts, algorithmic tracking, and AI to incentivise and express meaningful climate action.


Learn more


*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Art & Design

US vs UK Art & Design Studies: A Webinar for Creative Minds

Life at the RCA

Over 185 years our alumni have defined the industries that they have joined, created and reshaped.

Watch now: Where will the RCA take you?

We host a range of opportunities in cities around the world for prospective RCA students to meet with staff and alumni.

Explore our global events

Get advice on sources of funding for MA, MFA, MDes, MEd and MRes students available from external bodies.

Explore funding

View information about US Loans available for eligible students to study at the RCA.

Explore US Federal Loans

Useful links

Find your path to joining the Royal College of Art

Application process

Secure your place

Whether you have a creative background or you’re a career-changer – become part of our global network of innovators.

Register your interest
Student in painting studio