Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

As the second cycle of higher education, postgraduate study represents a continuation of learning, training and/or experience rather than a beginning. As such, many of our applicants will have a degree qualification either in an arts subject, or in business or management.

However, we recognise that traditional application processes, which show a bias towards prior learning and achievement, can perpetuate existing societal inequities, favouring those who already benefit. For this reason, we embrace the principles of widening access and participation and, whilst prior qualifications and experience may be taken into account, our application process places emphasis on students’ values, potential and readiness for Master’s level study.

This is in accordance with the RCS Admissions Policy (including the Contextualised Admissions Policy).

English Language Requirements

The language of study is English. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of proficiency in English. We accept the International English Language Testing System score (IELTS) (if applicable) – Level 7.0 with a minimum score of 7.0 in speaking and with a minimum score of 6.5 in all parts.

Full details of the English language tests and equivalencies we accept can be found on our English Language Requirements page.

Accreditation of Prior and Experiential Learning (APEL)

In some cases, applicants to the programme may already have achieved academic credit on another programme of study and are seeking to reduce the number of modules they will need to study on the programme. Applications for APEL will normally be decided prior to the applicant’s admission to the Royal Conservatoire.

Months of entry

August, September

Course content

Delivered as either one-year full-time or part-time over two years, this MA programme will empower you to elevate your skills in leadership, management and sustainable business practices.

Join us from anywhere in the world – the programme can be completed entirely online or combined with in-person residency intensives. You also have the option to take accredited short courses to add to your learning experience and enrich your personalised journey.

The programme is delivered in modules, where you’ll be supported by RCS lecturers and industry experts to critically engage with your practice and to refine your identity as thinker, maker and leader. Core to the programme is the exploration and critical thinking around contemporary leadership and management theory, enabling you to upskill, reskill or take your career forward as a change-maker in the arts.

You will be part of a thriving and collaborative learning community with opportunities to share thinking, challenge assumptions and develop your distinctive competencies within a supported framework.

We welcome applications from a range of creative disciplines and backgrounds. You’ll have strong technical skills in your specialist practice but will work in RCS’s multidisciplinary environment, opening up the potential for cross-collaboration that reflects the nature of the creative industries.

Enjoy being part of a dynamic international community at RCS, a global leader in performing and production arts education, where you’ll build a professional network to develop your career.

Fees and funding

Tuition Fees

For academic year 2025/26:

Full-time: £14,700

Part-time: £7,350

Please note these fees are subject to change.

Cost of Living & Programme Costs

This course can be studied fully online if you live further afield and don’t wish to travel to participate in-person. The course is structured to be delivered online with in-person residencies offered to supplement and enhance the learning experience.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MA
full time
12 months
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- Online learningis available for this qualification
part time
24 months
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- Online learningis available for this qualification
MFA
full time
16 months
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- Online learningis available for this qualification
part time
32 months
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- Online learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Admissions
Email: admissions@rcs.ac.uk

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