The course has developed a distinctive identity that reflects the fact that we are part of an 'arts school' tradition rather than allied to an architectural school. We have a significant international reputation as a culturally diverse course that fosters experimentation, and questions disciplinary boundaries and conventional definitions of what constitutes spatial practice.

The course is committed to the notion of 'space-making' as a design activity that is distinct from architecture. It addresses issues of how we inhabit space, and develops sensibilities towards the intervening into existing architectural structures or situations.

While we engage with the language of architecture, we have a particular expertise in the experiential aspects of what it is to inhabit and interact with our spatial environment. This can encompass both interior and exterior situations, while outcomes can range from the functional design of built structures to fine art installations, from furniture to film or computer animation.

The course offers the possibility to pursue 2 areas of concern:

Research orientated:

Here you will develop your own research proposal, evolving projects that have a strong specialist agenda, or which question the boundaries between architecture, design and fine art. This mode is particularly appropriate for students coming from a fine art or architectural background wishing to explore more conceptual spatial concerns that fall outside of conventional notions of interior design.

Professional practice orientated:

This area of study emphasizes site investigation and spatial resolution, where you bring your research concerns to a site condition that is negotiated with staff. Here the outcomes are focused on the detailed design resolution of interventions into existing architectural or built conditions, and on the developing of challenging social programmes that engage with a wide cultural environment.

The course encourages applications from graduates of interior design, interior architecture or architecture, and also from fine art or three-dimensional design graduates who want to pursue a more spatial aspect of their practice. We are interested in candidates who are keen to push the boundaries between disciplines and are looking to develop a deeper theoretical understanding of their practice.

The course has direct links with a College research unit, the Spaces and Narrations Research Group. They organise a series of talks with architectural themes, and students are encouraged to participate in the group. Past speakers included Shin Egashira, Peter Salter, Public Works, Amikam Toren, Fred Scott, 6a Architects.

The course follows an outline of three main phases:

Phase 1: Analysis of Practice and Exploration of Methodologies
Phase 2: Development and Consolidation
Phase 3: Resolution

These phases are set within a credit framework of three assessed units: Studio Practice, Advanced Studio Practice (which run sequentially), and Theoretical Studies, running throughout the course.

Studio Practice involves evolving and developing a personal programme of studio work and related research. Theoretical Studies provides a framework for you to develop a critical research paper, enabling you to locate your ideas and practice in relation to contemporary debate on cultural and theoretical issues.

This course provides graduates with a valuable bridge between studentship and professional practice. You will engage with leading practitioners enabling you to redefine your current and future practice. Students expand their potential to operate as professional designers or progress to further research.

The course has an excellent record of students gaining employment in both architectural and design practices, while other students continue their practice as fine artists. Graduates have gone on to have architectural books published and films made, and have exhibited internationally.

• An Honours degree or equivalent academic / professional qualifications.
• A written study proposal (approx. 1,000 words).
• A selection of recent work.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must show proof of IELTS level 6.5 and a minimum of 5.5 in reading, listening, writing and speaking. The University also accepts other tests. Please see the University English tests page for the equivalent scores required in these tests.
• The College takes into consideration prior learning, alternative qualifications and experience.

Your background will normally be from interior design, interior architecture or architecture. However we also welcome applications from fine art graduates wishing to pursue design or architecture-led proposals.

Did you know that the Chelsea College of Art & Design also teach Short Courses in Interior & Spatial Design?  Many postgraduate applicants use Short Courses to familiarise themselves with the College and use it as a refresher in education.  See the full range of Interior & Spatial Design Short Courses here.

How to Apply

Home/EU Applicants

CCW Graduate School Application Form

Guidelines for electronic submission

Completed forms, including your study proposal, reference & portfolio (if required) can be returned by post to: 

CCW Graduate School Admissions
16 John Islip Street
London
SW1P 4JU

Or you can submit your form electronically to ccwgraduateschool@arts.ac.uk

International Applicants

Please visit the CCW International Apply page to download an application form or contact the CCW International Office.

T: +44 (0)20 7514 1852
E: ccwinternational@arts.ac.uk

Application Deadlines

The deadline for applicants who will be applying to the AHRC (or other funding bodies): 1 March 2012
All other UK & EU applicants: 2 July 2012
International: No official deadline, but you are advised to apply as soon as possible.

What happens next?

Applications will be reviewed against the entry requirements and selection criteria for the course. You may then be invited to attend an interview at the College on a set day, with your full portfolio if applicable.

Scholarships and bursaries

The Caspian Arts Foundation Scholarship - for students from the Middle East and North Africa.

Details of any scholarships and bursaries will be posted on the University MA Funding page