Edinburgh College of Art (ECA), part of the prestigious University of Edinburgh, is a world-renowned institution offering exceptional programs in fine art, design, architecture, music, history of art, and performing arts, fostering creativity, innovation, and academic excellence in one of Europe’s most culturally vibrant cities.

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Edinburgh College of Art | The University of Edinburgh

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About Edinburgh College of Art

Founded in 1760, Edinburgh College of Art has built a legacy as a leading center for artistic and design education. Merging with the University of Edinburgh in 2011, ECA combines the resources of a top-ranked global university with the intimate, practice-led environment of an art school. The college is celebrated for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration across disciplines like visual arts, film, fashion, graphic design, and digital media.

Academic Programs & Departments

ECA offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees across its five schools:

• School of Art: Focused on painting, sculpture, photography, and interdisciplinary art practices.
• School of Design: Covers fashion, graphic design, illustration, jewelry, textiles, and product design.
• School of Architecture & Landscape Architecture (ESALA): Renowned for sustainable design, urban planning, and architectural theory.
• Reid School of Music: Offers performance, composition, musicology, and sonic arts.
• School of History of Art: Explores art theory, curating, and cultural heritage.

Programs emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and industry engagement, with access to cutting-edge facilities like digital labs, workshops, and exhibition spaces.

World-Class Facilities & Resources

ECA’s campus blends historic and modern spaces, including:

• Specialist studios for ceramics, printmaking, and metalwork.
• Digital fabrication labs with 3D printers and laser cutters.
• Performance venues and recording studios for music students.
• ECA Library, housing rare collections and art archives.
• Exhibition galleries showcasing student and faculty work.

Research & Innovation

ECA is a hub for groundbreaking research in:

• Creative industries and cultural policy.
• Digital humanities and immersive technologies.
• Sustainable design and urban resilience.
• Contemporary art practice and critical theory.

Collaborations with institutions like the National Galleries of Scotland and Edinburgh International Festival provide real-world impact.

Student Life & Opportunities

ECA students benefit from:

• Study abroad exchanges with global partner institutions.
• Industry placements with leading studios, galleries, and firms.
• Student societies for filmmaking, photography, and more.
• Edinburgh’s thriving arts scene, including festivals like the Fringe.

Admissions & Scholarships

Admission is competitive, with portfolios and auditions required for many programs. The university offers:

• Merit-based scholarships for outstanding applicants.
• International student support, including visa guidance.
• Portfolio preparation workshops for prospective students.

For details, visit the official ECA website or contact the admissions office.

Why Choose Edinburgh College of Art?

ECA stands out for its unique blend of tradition and innovation, world-class faculty, and location in a UNESCO City of Literature. Graduates join a network of influential artists, designers, and scholars, equipped to shape the future of creative industries.

Note: Programs, facilities, and opportunities are subject to updates; verify details directly with the institution.

Programs Offered at Edinburgh College of Art

Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) delivers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across art, design, architecture, music, and history of art. Each program combines rigorous academic study with hands-on practice, preparing students for careers in creative industries, academia, and beyond.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Honours

• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Studio-based learning with critical theory. Specializations in painting, sculpture, photography, or interdisciplinary art.
• Outcome: Graduates exhibit in galleries, pursue residencies, or continue to master’s programs.

Bachelor of Design (BDes) – Honours

• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Covers graphic design, fashion, illustration, jewelry, and textiles. Includes industry placements in Year 3.
• Outcome: Prepares students for roles in design studios, branding agencies, or entrepreneurial ventures.

Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) – Part 1

• Duration: 3 years (full-time).
• Structure: Combines design studios, technical workshops, and sustainability modules. Accredited by RIBA.
• Outcome: Pathway to professional certification as an architect (after Part 2 and 3).

Bachelor of Music (BMus) – Honours

• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Focuses on performance, composition, musicology, or technology. Access to Reid Concert Hall and recording studios.
• Outcome: Careers in performance, arts management, or further study at conservatoires.

Postgraduate Taught Programs

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

• Duration: 2 years (full-time).
• Structure: Advanced studio practice with mentorship from renowned artists. Includes a public exhibition thesis.
• Outcome: Professional artist practice or PhD research.

Master of Design (MDes)

• Duration: 1 year (full-time).
• Structure: Specializations in fashion, graphic design, or service design. Collaborative projects with industry partners.
• Outcome: Leadership roles in design firms or innovation consultancies.

Master of Architecture (MArch) – Part 2

• Duration: 2 years (full-time).
• Structure: Advanced design studios, urban planning, and digital fabrication. RIBA/ARB accredited.
• Outcome: Eligibility for architect registration (after Part 3).

Master of Music (MMus)

• Duration: 1 year (full-time).
• Structure: Pathways in composition, sonic arts, or musicology. Includes ensemble work and research projects.
• Outcome: Professional musicianship, academia, or arts curation.

Postgraduate Research Programs

PhD in Art & Design

• Duration: 3–6 years (full-time/part-time).
• Structure: Independent research with supervisory support. Access to ECA’s labs, archives, and global networks.
• Outcome: Careers in academia, cultural institutions, or creative research.

PhD in Architecture

• Duration: 3–6 years (full-time/part-time).
• Structure: Focus on sustainable design, urban theory, or digital heritage. Fieldwork opportunities worldwide.
• Outcome: Roles in policy-making, heritage conservation, or university teaching.

Short Courses & Summer Programs

Summer School in Drawing & Painting

• Duration: 2–4 weeks (June–August).
• Structure: Intensive workshops in life drawing, portraiture, and mixed media.
• Outcome: Portfolio development for aspiring artists.

Digital Fabrication Bootcamp

• Duration: 1 week (modular).
• Structure: Hands-on training in 3D printing, CNC milling, and laser cutting.
• Outcome: Certification for designers and architects.

For the latest program details, visit ECA’s Study Page.

Note: Program structures and offerings may be updated; confirm directly with ECA admissions.

Contact ECA:

General enquiries

Email: eca@ed.ac.uk

Tel: +44 (0)131 651 5800

Addresses:

ECA Main Building

North East Studio Building and Hunter Building