V&A/RCA History of Design postgraduate programme

The V&A/RCA programme (MA, MPhil and PhD) is internationally recognised as a leading centre for postgraduate study in the history of design and material culture.

Combining ambitious, rigorous and cutting edge scholarly approaches with first-hand understanding of material and digital artefacts, the History of Design programme is ideally suited to prepare students for the increasingly diverse and flexible professional portfolio demanded today.

MA in the History of Design

The V&A/RCA History of Design programme is internationally known for our path-breaking teaching and research in the history of design and material culture. As jointly offered by two world-leading centres for scholarship and creativity, we explore cultural, social, economic, political and technological history through designed artefacts and our interactions with them. Students work closely with collections and curatorial expertise within the V&A, and as part of the creative community of the RCA.

Application

Open days

Open days are held at the Royal College of Art between October and March of each academic year. At these, applicants will hear from programme staff and meet current students.

The V&A and RCA are committed to widening participation and helping students of limited means to study at the College and the Museum. Bursaries are available to support talented students who would not otherwise be able to join the MA programme. For more information on what bursaries are available and how to apply, please consult our History of Design bursaries summary document.