How to find the best art and design postgraduate course for you

One of the main attractions of postgraduate qualifications in art and design is the chance to be creative, whether that's via an enhanced portfolio or the opportunity to research your subject at an advanced level - or both.The UK has a lot to offer when it comes to postgraduate study in art and design. It's home to the Royal College of Art - the world's only university of art and design exclusively for postgraduates. Many UK universities are now combining their art courses with a business discipline, equipping students with more than just creative know-how for when they enter the job market. For example, University College for the Creative Arts offers MA courses in design and strategy as well as innovation and brand management, while the Sotheby's Institute of Art runs an MA in art business. The impetus for art, design or media students to have business knowledge is higher than ever and the UK is helping to show the way.It's therefore essential to decide exactly what you want to achieve from a postgraduate course and how it will help you achieve your goals.

The questions to consider if you're thinking about postgraduate study in art and design

• How will a postgraduate qualification allow you to apply and build on your existing knowledge?
• What industry and research links do the course tutors and lecturers at your chosen institution(s) have?
• Does the programme include visiting lecturers and trips to exhibitions and shows?
• What individual and group facilities - including IT - are available at your chosen institution?
• To what extent will you be free to develop your own style?
• What support will be available to help you develop your individual skills and ideas?
• Do the course fees include materials?

What study options are available?

There are a variety of programme types on offer for postgraduate art and design. The most common are master of arts (MA) courses that usually run for one to two years. These will give you the opportunity to get to grips with your chosen subject and take your knowledge and ability to the next level through a taught lesson structure. You'll usually need to have a first degree (or similar qualification) in a subject related to the one you've chosen at postgraduate level, or be an industry professional looking to build on your experience. There is also the opportunity to do further postgraduate study after an MA via a research qualification, typically a master of philosophy (MPhil), which usually takes two to three years.

Next steps: choosing the right postgraduate course in art and design

Use our course search facility to find the courses that are right for you: search by location, research rating and study mode and look at students' and employers' ratings of courses.