UAL or Kingston???

Hi everyone!! I’ve received offers from both UAL and Kingston University for an MA in Graphic Design, but I’m struggling to decide which one to choose… I know that UAL has a strong reputation and industry connections, but as an international student, the tuition fees are quite high. Is it really worth the extra cost? On the other hand, I really like the idea of studying at Kingston because it’s in a calmer location, which I feel would suit me better. However, I’m a bit worried that it doesn’t have the same level of prestige and industry recognition as UAL.

Does anyone have experience with either university? Which one would you recommend in terms of course quality, career prospects, and overall experience?

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks in advance!

Reply 1

Clearing and Applications Advisor, Universities Forum Helper

For graphic design you’ll be getting work based on the quality of your portfolio not the reputation of your university. An MA is only a year so it’s really important to choose somewhere you will be happy and settle quickly (and ideally be able to focus on studying not scraping together money to live because the fees are extortionate). It sounds like for you that would be Kingston.

If money is an issue then there are some fantastic art universities outside London where fees and cost of living will be even lower than Kingston.

Reply 2

Kingston Lily

Original post

by sararito

Hi everyone!! I’ve received offers from both UAL and Kingston University for an MA in Graphic Design, but I’m struggling to decide which one to choose… I know that UAL has a strong reputation and industry connections, but as an international student, the tuition fees are quite high. Is it really worth the extra cost? On the other hand, I really like the idea of studying at Kingston because it’s in a calmer location, which I feel would suit me better. However, I’m a bit worried that it doesn’t have the same level of prestige and industry recognition as UAL.
Does anyone have experience with either university? Which one would you recommend in terms of course quality, career prospects, and overall experience?
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks in advance!

Hi @sararito

Congratulations on receiving an offer from Kingston University!

Although I am not studying Graphic Design at Kingston, I can definitely tell you about the university itself and the location. As a first year postgraduate student from overseas, not only have I felt supported and heard by the university, both through online communication or in-person drop-in's, I have also noticed an impressive amount of international students attending Kingston, especially in postgraduate courses, creating a sense of community and belonging.
The Kingston area is beautiful and, as you mentioned, feels calm and safe, with many parks, cafés, shops, and a lovely riverside promenade. And it is only a 30-minute away by train from central London.

When it comes to tuition fees, Kingston University offers scholarships for international students, which you can check out here: https://www.kingston.ac.uk/international/funding-and-fees/scholarships/

For students who are unable to attend in-person open days, there are also virtual open days and webinars this coming month. Here are a few links that you can check out:
https://www.kingston.ac.uk/open-days/postgraduate/
https://experience.kingston.ac.uk/
https://www.kingston.ac.uk/open-days/webinars/

I hope this helps, and if you have any more questions, feel free to let me know!

-Lily (Kingston Rep)

Reply 3

insidedesigner

Original post

by sararito

Hi everyone!! I’ve received offers from both UAL and Kingston University for an MA in Graphic Design, but I’m struggling to decide which one to choose… I know that UAL has a strong reputation and industry connections, but as an international student, the tuition fees are quite high. Is it really worth the extra cost? On the other hand, I really like the idea of studying at Kingston because it’s in a calmer location, which I feel would suit me better. However, I’m a bit worried that it doesn’t have the same level of prestige and industry recognition as UAL.
Does anyone have experience with either university? Which one would you recommend in terms of course quality, career prospects, and overall experience?
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks in advance!

Which UAL course? They don't do a straight 'MA Graphic Design' anymore as far as i know. They're all quite different

Reply 4

UAL PG Rep Anais

Official Rep

Original post

by sararito

Hi everyone!! I’ve received offers from both UAL and Kingston University for an MA in Graphic Design, but I’m struggling to decide which one to choose… I know that UAL has a strong reputation and industry connections, but as an international student, the tuition fees are quite high. Is it really worth the extra cost? On the other hand, I really like the idea of studying at Kingston because it’s in a calmer location, which I feel would suit me better. However, I’m a bit worried that it doesn’t have the same level of prestige and industry recognition as UAL.
Does anyone have experience with either university? Which one would you recommend in terms of course quality, career prospects, and overall experience?
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks in advance!

Hello,
Congratulations on your offer to study at UAL, it is a great choice for your Graphic Design Masters!

UAL is well known in the creative industry and does have a great reputation that students benefit from. It is widely recognised when applying for jobs and internships. You will be able to connect with not just your peers, but also industry professionals in order to build your post graduation network

Moreover, the quality of the content you will be taught will truly be invaluable. You will learn from expert lecturers and leave with both practical and theoretical knowledge to use in your practice. The campuses offer industry standard equipment and resources at your disposal for you to develop your skills.

The culture at UAL also has a great community feel with a range of events and societies - there are many opportunities for you to feel welcome and at home. I wish you the best with your decision!

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