Course summary
The Graduate Diploma Art & Design at the RCA is a 30week, 120credit preMaster’s programme that provides a bridge between undergraduate study (or non-practical backgrounds) and a full Master’s. You choose one of five specialisms: Communication, Design, Fashion & Textiles, Fine Art, or Research. You study either on-campus, online, or through a mix of both. The programme is interdisciplinary, offering studio-based learning, access to technical facilities, and a supportive community of artists, thinkers and practitioners. Over two 15week blocks, you first explore broad themes and learning methods, then focus on developing a body of work and a portfolio. You’ll build a portfolio that prepares you for progression. Distinction guarantees entry to RCA MA and MRes programmes aligned with your specialism, subject to availability. Throughout, the programme emphasises independent learning, critical thinking, and the practices needed to develop your creative identity. 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.
Modules
Unit 1: Learning This runs throughout the programme and develops your critical and analytical thinking, while also supporting your English-language skills to the level needed for Master’s study. Unit 2: Art & Design Practice You work on structured briefs or self-directed projects, exploring advanced art and design practice. The unit encourages open-ended investigation and discussion rather than fixed right/wrong outcomes. Unit 3: Independent Art & Design Practice In the second half of the programme, you deepen into a self-directed practice. You take part in critiques and present works-in-progress, demonstrating maturity and clarity in your creative decision-making. Unit 4: Portfolio Over the full 30 weeks, you compile a digital portfolio that reflects your skills, ideas and understanding of context. This portfolio supports your progression to a Master’s programme.
Entry requirements
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.
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 via the link below.
https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/english-language-requirements/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Please refer to the programme webpage for the most accurate and up-to-date information on tuition fees, deposits, and additional costs for both Home and Overseas/EU students.
Sponsorship information
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. You can find more information about available scholarships and their eligibility criteria here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/funding-your-studies/rca-scholarships-and-awards/
Provider information
Royal College of Art
Kensington Gore
Kensington and Chelsea
SW7 2EU