Creating transformative movements that invite change.
The Visual Communication programme at the Royal College of Art is pushing the boundaries of graphic design, illustration and experimental forms of communication by critically examining our place in the world today. We value agency and critical experimentation, and aim to foster an interdisciplinary environment where students can draw from various fields of knowledge, skills and perspectives. We look to situate ourselves meaningfully within new disciplinary territories, and broader cultural and societal landscapes.
We value practical and discursive approaches to making, and see Visual Communication as fundamentally a conversational practice – one that embodies the act of creating and sharing by going beyond the mere transmission of information. We encourage active engagement in building connections, and fostering ongoing dialogues we seek to form bridges that link ideas, people, and communities in meaningful ways. By creating spaces where diverse perspectives meet, we aim to activate new understandings and narratives to bring about positive change.
Our students come to Visual Communication from disciplines including graphic design and illustration but develop the tools to allow communication and connections across disciplinary boundaries. This interdisciplinary environment draws from diverse geographies, rich cultural contexts and multiple fields of study.
Candidates are selected entirely on merit and applications are welcomed from all over the world. The selection process considers creativity, imagination and innovation as demonstrated in your portfolio, as well as your potential to benefit from the programme and to achieve high MA standards overall.
You will normally have completed a first-degree undergraduate qualification in a related subject or be able to evidence equivalent professional experience in related fields.
All candidates are required to submit an online portfolio of work to be assessed by the programme’s senior staff team. Candidates should create an online portfolio that best reflects their abilities, experience and interests. The portfolio must follow College guidelines for uploading work such as using the College application site and giving a brief description for each piece of work.
Candidates are selected on the basis of a body of work that demonstrates an advanced understanding of the subject and sufficient technical skill to realise intentions, evidence of commitment to the subject, intellectual curiosity, open-mindedness, the ability to collaborate, to engage in debate and respond to criticism, and the ability to engage in sustained and consistent study.
We also want enthusiasm for your practice, commitment and a strong sense of personal responsibility for your own learning and development.
For fees and funding options, please visit website to find out more
Ranked for eleven consecutive years as the world’s number 1 art & design university, the Royal College of Art’s postgraduate programmes enable you...