Master of Architecture (ARB/RIBA)

The Architecture MArch (ARBRIBA) at the RCA is an ambitious re-imagining of architectural practices, rooted in an interdisciplinary ethos that foregrounds design-led, practice-based research. It treats architecture as a medium rather than an end, inviting you to engage critically and responsively with urgent political, social, and ecological questions. Within a supportive, research-informed community, you explore experimental design techniques and reflective research across studios, lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and critical discussions, preparing you for professional architectural practice and a broader, critically engaged spatial practice.

The MArch Architecture programme prioritises innovation and experimentation and we are looking for students with a strong sense of curiosity, independence and agenda who want to be challenged. The majority of our students come from undergraduate studies in architecture, but this is not essential and we enjoy a diverse community of students. We also strongly encourage a minimum of one year’s work experience (in a related field) before entering into Master’s studies.You should have achieved a high quality first degree in architecture (RIBA Part I) or an international equivalent degree or higher and should have at least one year’s work experience in a design office. Alternative undergraduate qualifications will be considered based on portfolio and personal statement.You are required to submit a completed RCA application form, a digital portfolio of completed student projects together with any relevant supporting design material, and a brief video setting out your motivations and personal interests. If you wish to gain exemption from RIBA Part II, you must have completed their RIBA Part I satisfactorily. Design and critical thinking are prioritised in the selection of candidates.Portfolio requirementsWe would like you to submit a one single compiled PDF portfolio with no more than 5 projects of maximum ten pages per project – this should be a carefully considered document.Video/media files can be embedded. The portfolio can be evidenced through any media from drawings, images and models to film and writing, but the work must be succinct, dense and well-curated and clearly articulate your interest in and intentions for the MA Architecture programme.Remember, we will be viewing the document on screen so consider your layout to suit this. In curating your portfolio it is important to prioritise student and independently-led work; professional work is only of interest if it was an exceptional experience.All projects should be accompanied by a concise written description and images and content carefully selected to both communicate a coherent project trajectory and also demonstrate skills and aptitude.Your portfolio should communicate who you are and your potential. It is important to choose the best projects that truly represent your interests, that unpack issues that are important to you or that you may wish to pursue in your Master's education. Work should be well presented visually and also in depth of content and communication.Fundamental to any work included in the portfolio should be research, rigour, invention and visually and materially rich design exploration and representation.Personal statementPlease provide a 300-word written personal statement that addresses the following points:Introduce yourself, your interests and your motivations for applying to the Royal College of Art, and to this programme in particular.Briefly summarise any educational background and professional experience to date that will support your application.Tell us what you want to do in the future.Video requirements