Graduate Diploma Art & Design

Royal College of Art

The Graduate Diploma in Art & Design at the RCA is a 30‑week, 120‑credit pre‑Master’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 15‑week 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.