The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) stands as a specialized institution in the United Kingdom, dedicated to education in the creative disciplines. Established in 2005 and granted university status in 2008, UCA has consistently positioned itself as a leader in art and design education.
UCA offers a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various creative fields, including Fine Art, Fashion, Film, Architecture, and Digital Media. The university's commitment to quality education is reflected in its high rankings: it is the second highest-ranked specialist creative university in the UK according to The Guardian 2024 and third in The Times/Sunday Times and Daily Mail rankings for 2024. Additionally, UCA is recognized for its world-leading research outputs in the most recent Research Excellence Framework.
With campuses in Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, and Maidstone, UCA provides a vibrant environment for a diverse student body. The university's international recognition and comprehensive support services make it a compelling choice for students pursuing careers in the creative industries.
| Intakes | September,January |
|---|---|
| All Campuses | Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone |
| Website | https://uca.ac.uk/ |
| Monthly Living Cost | Approximately £2,500 |
| Funds Requirements for Visa | n/a |
| Application Fees | £24 |
| Currency | £ |
| Is Lang Mendatory | Yes |
| Part Time Work Details | <p>10-20 hours per week during term time; full-time during holidays</p> |
Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Specific ranking not available; however, UCA is recognized for its specialized focus on creative arts.
QS World University Rankings by Subject: Ranked #51-100 in Art & Design for 2025.
UK University League Table: Ranked 85th in the Complete University Guide 2025.
The Guardian University Rankings: Ranked 2nd among specialist creative universities in the UK for 2025.
UCA accepts Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) recognized by the UK Home Office. Specific score requirements may vary by program.
UCA offers several scholarships for international students: Creative Development Scholarships: £3,000 fee deduction for the first year; automatically awarded to eligible international applicants. Continuing Performance Scholarships: Up to £4,000 (£2,000 per year for the 2nd and 3rd years); based on academic performance.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees: Starting from £9,535 per year for BA (Hons) one-year top-up degree courses.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees: Varies by program; prospective students should consult the university's website for specific details.
Funding Options: In addition to scholarships, UCA provides guidance on budgeting and managing finances.
Application Process: Apply via UCAS for undergraduate programs; direct applications may be accepted for certain postgraduate courses.
Required Documents: Academic transcripts, portfolio (for creative courses), English language proficiency evidence, and references.
Application Deadlines: For September intake, apply by 30 June; for January intake, apply by 15 November.
Yes, online applications are available through the UCAS portal for undergraduate programs and directly through UCA for certain postgraduate courses.
UCA provides comprehensive support for international students, including guidance on visa applications, financial requirements, and pre-arrival information.
The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) traces its origins to the mid-19th century, beginning with the establishment of the Guildford School of Art in 1856. Over the years, several art schools in Kent and Surrey merged, culminating in the formation of the Kent Institute of Art & Design in 1987 and the Surrey Institute of Art & Design in 1995. In 2005, these institutions united to become the University College for the Creative Arts, which achieved full university status in 2008 and adopted its current name, University for the Creative Arts. In 2016, UCA further expanded by merging with the Open College of the Arts.
Throughout its history, UCA has been dedicated to providing specialized education in the creative disciplines. The university has produced numerous notable alumni who have achieved recognition in various creative industries, including fashion, film, and the arts.
Students choose UCA for its specialized focus on creative disciplines, offering programs in areas such as Architecture, Crafts, Fashion, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Art, Photography, Film, Media, Performing Arts, and Creative Business. The university is known for its high teaching quality and strong connections with creative sector employers. UCA's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation provides students with the opportunity to develop their skills in a supportive and dynamic environment.
UCA is organized into several academic units:
Business School for the Creative Industries
Canterbury School of Architecture & Design
School of Communications
School of Fashion & Textiles
School of Film, Media & Performing Arts
School of Fine Art, Crafts & Photography
School of Games & Creative Technology
UCA Doctoral College
UCA International College (UCAIC)
Institute of Creativity and Innovation (ICI)
UCA offers various scholarships to support students financially:
Creative Development Scholarships: £3,000 fee deduction for the first year; automatically awarded to eligible international applicants.
Continuing Performance Scholarships: Up to £4,000 (£2,000 per year for the 2nd and 3rd years); based on academic performance.
UCA provides on-campus accommodation options for students. These accommodations are designed to offer a comfortable living environment conducive to academic success. Specific details regarding accommodation types and costs can be obtained directly from the university's housing office.
In addition to on-campus housing, students have access to various off-campus accommodation options in the surrounding areas. These accommodations are typically within commuting distance to the university and offer flexibility in terms of living arrangements. Students are encouraged to explore these options to find housing that best suits their needs and preferences.
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee£ UK/EU - £10,500 , International - £17,500
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee£ UK/EU: £10,500, International: £17,500
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score0.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ UK/EU: £4,080, International: £4,680
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score0.0
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee£ UK students - £1,390 (per 30 credits)
CampusCanterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ UK/EU - £9,250 , International - £16,950
United Kingdom
