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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.
Programme structure:
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. Referring to the website:
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.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Art and Design
Degree
Other
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Description:
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.
Programme structure:
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. Referring to the website:
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.
Admission Requirements
5.5+
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 through the link below.
https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/ english -language-requirements/
Entry Requirement:
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.
10 Apr 2026
May
Tuition fees
Domestic
10,200 GBP
International
21,800 GBP
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Graduate Diploma Art & Design (on-campus)
White City, London, United Kingdom
# 1QS Subject Rankings
21,800 GBPTuition Fee/year
10 Apr, 2026Application Deadline
Art and DesignMain Subject Area
Programme overview
Main Subject
Art and Design
Degree
Other
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
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.
Programme structure:
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.
Referring to the website:
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.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Art and Design
Degree
Other
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
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.
Programme structure:
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.
Referring to the website:
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.
Admission Requirements
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 through the link below.
https://www.rca.ac.uk/study/apply-to-study/ english -language-requirements/
Entry Requirement:
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:
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.
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
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Videos & media
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