Course summary
The MA Architecture at the RCA is an ambitious re-imagining of architectural practices, rooted in an interdisciplinary ethos that foregrounds design-led, practice-based research. It treats architecture as a medium rather than an end, inviting you to engage critically and responsively with urgent political, social, and ecological questions. Within a supportive, research-informed community, you explore experimental design techniques and reflective research across lectures, seminars, tutorials, and workshops preparing both for RIBA/ARB-accredited Part II qualification and for a broader, critically engaged spatial practice. 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
Architectural Design Studios (ADS, across both years) You work in vertically integrated design studios led by 2–3 dedicated tutors. These project-based activities allow you to develop your own design research and practice through crits, reviews and tutorials in a collaborative, peer-learning environment. History & Theory Studies (HTS, Year 1) You explore the political roots of spatial practices, developing a shared vocabulary for architectural thinking by tracing a specific theme (e.g., landscape, care, domestication) across time. This builds your ability to contextualise design decisions. Design Strategy (Year 2) You develop a written design brief and thesis project proposal, supported by visual documentation, which will form the basis for your final Independent Research Project. Independent Research Project / Studio III (Year 2) You carry out a self-directed design project, producing drawings, models, digital work and other media, culminating in a formal presentation of your portfolio and critical reflection on your work. Professional Practice (Radical Practice) Through lectures, workshops and tutorials, you examine how architectural projects are delivered in real-world contexts covering legislation, ethics, contracts, and issues such as social justice and climate. Technical Studies You gain a working knowledge of construction, engineering, environment and materials, with a focus on sustainable, regenerative design that responds to real-world challenges. Media Studies You critically engage with media in the context of architecture, analysing historical and contemporary methodologies through lectures, workshops and research. AcrossRCA you participate in the AcrossRCA college-wide unit, collaborating with students from other programmes on a self-initiated themed project that addresses cultural, social, environmental or economic issues.
Professional bodies
Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.
- Royal Institute of British Architects
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