Contemporary Art Practice MA

Round two applications for RCA programmes 2026/27 are now open with a deadline of Tuesday March 17 at 12pm (BST). The final round of applications opens on Wednesday March 18 and closes on Wednesday June 3 at 12pm (BST). 

Programme spotlight—Contemporary Art Practice
The MA Contemporary Art Practice at the RCA  is a one-year full-time programme, offering a discursive, research driven environment for ambitious and exploratory artists. The programme blends theory and making as students develop contemporary artwork in media such as installation, moving image, performance and emerging technologies. Through individual tutorials, group critiques, lectures, seminars and workshops, students will situate their practice within current cultural, political and ethical debates, while critically responding to the world and shaping speculative futures. The programme supports collective and peer led learning, with collaboration, experimentation and public presentation (such as exhibitions and events) at its heart. More information can be found on the programme webpage. 

Funding and scholarship support
RCA offers a wide range of funding opportunities to support postgraduate study, including a variety of tuition fee and living cost scholarships, for both UK and international students. Applying in rounds one and two give the best chance of getting a scholarship.

Find more information about available scholarships and their eligibility criteria on our website.

Meet the RCA
The RCA hosts a range of online and in-person events for aspiring students. Register for online and on-campus open days, portfolio Q&A sessions, campus tours and the chance to meet the RCA globally and in the UK.