Rector: Dr. Paul Thompson

The RCA is the world’s only wholly postgraduate art and design school – where students and staff study and practise art in a design environment, and design in an art environment. Its staff, students and alumni comprise an internationally renowned community of artists, designers and academics who play a significant role in the shaping of modern culture.

Located in the heart of London, its courses are taught by internationally renowned artists, practitioners and theorists. The College has access to state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding research resources, contributing to an unbeatable creative and intellectual environment.

As well as welcoming students from around the world, the College’s global dimension is enhanced through partnerships with leading art and design, cultural and educational institutions and through extensive links with business, both nationally and internationally.

The College's Royal Charter, granted in 1967, specifies that the purpose of the institution is "to advance learning, knowledge and professional competence particularly in the field of fine arts…through teaching, research and collaboration with industry and commerce".

The Royal College of Art's position as one of the leading specialist art and design institutions in the UK was confirmed by 2008 Research Assessment Exercise results, with 40% of its research output judged to be of quality that is world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour. A further 25% was deemed internationally excellent.

Recognised for the outstanding quality of its graduates, the College boasts such note-worthy alumni as Sir James Dyson, Thomas Heatherwick, David Hockney, Tracey Emin, Christopher Bailey, Julien McDonald, Alison Jackson, Idris Khan, David Adjaye, AOC, Suzie Templeton and Sir Ridley Scott. According to the most recent figures, an average of 93% of the College's graduates gain work in directly related employment and at the right professional level. 
 

For more information about Royal College of Art, please visit their website at www.rca.ac.uk