Course summary
The MA Service Design at the RCA teaches you to apply human centred design methods to complex systems, so you can imagine and prototype new futures that create positive change. You will learn through live, team based projects with commercial, public sector, and social organisations, moving through research, reframing, concept generation, prototyping, and user testing. The programme encourages critical reflection, helping you develop confidence in contributing to the evolution of service design as both a practice and a discipline. You'll be part of a diverse community from different backgrounds, working in a studio-based environment supported by lectures, seminars and tutor guidance. Through this approach, you build the skills, mindset and tools to become a changemaker in business, government or social innovation. 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
Term 1 In term 1, you take Service Design Foundation, introducing the theories and concepts underpinning service and service design practice. You also take Service Design Practice, applying service design tools and methods to a “live” project in collaboration with industry or social partners. Term 2 In term 2, you take Service Design in Context, where you examine how service design ideas relate to economic, technological, social and environmental systems, and shape their implementation. Also in term 2, you take Grand Challenge, a school-wide unit that brings you together with other students to tackle a complex (“wicked”) design problem through cross-disciplinary collaboration. Term 3 In term 3, you take Independent Research Project, which is self-directed. You develop a strategic vision and real design interventions, culminating in a public output that demonstrates your expertise and contribution as a professional service designer. AcrossRCA (Terms 1 & 2) During the first two terms, 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.
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