A proven history of producing some of the world's most influential and successful artists, designers and architects, our studio-based specialist, practice-led education draws talented individuals with a shared passion and concern for visual culture from around the world.
Founded in 1845, the GSA remains an independent art school occupying its current site in the centre of Glasgow since 1899. At the heart of the campus is the renowned Mackintosh Building - one of the iconic buildings of the 20th century, designed by GSA alumnus, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Mackintosh is just one of a number of innovative, creative and successful artists, designers and architects who have benefited from their time at the GSA. Many have chosen to stay in Glasgow so that today the city is home to one of the UK's largest and most vibrant creative communities, drawn from talented individuals across the world. And since the emergence in the 1990s of GSA trained artists like Douglas Gordon, Christine Borland and David Shrigley, popular culture, film, music and video-based work has been routed through an awareness of Glasgow's creative underground culture and muselogical traditions.
Across our three academic schools - Architecture, Design and Fine Art - and in our Digital Design Studio, our students work with staff engaged in national and international research. You will find the GSA a stimulating and intellectually challenging environment in which to experiment and explore new ideas. Students also have the opportunity to work with practising artists, designers and architects such as Louise Hopkins (Venice Biennale 2007), Brian Cairns (Gold Medal Winner from the Society of Illustrators, New York), Charlie Sutherland and Charlie Hussey of Sutherland Hussie Architects (winners of the RIAS Scottish Building of the Year and Stirling Prize nominees).
The GSA provides a welcoming environment for all students, wherever your home. With approximately 20% of our student population from outside the EU, the School's cosmopolitan atmosphere provides the perfect climate for creative thinking and for new ideas and friendship to flourish. International students at the School come from over 55 countries, ranging from Australia to Zimbabwe. Each year we welcome more than 80 students from our exchange and Study Abroad partners, who each, in their turn, further contribute to the international dimension of the learning experience at the School. The School offers an environment in which difference is encouraged and diversity of background and approach is valued.
The University of Glasgow validates all of the School’s degree courses. Students at the School have reference rights at the University of Glasgow and have access to the University’s sports and recreation facilities for a minimal fee.
Glasgow itself is a thriving, exciting and cosmopolitan city which draws the most talented students from across the UK - and the world. Scotland's largest city - 20% of Scotland's population live in and around the city which is an important creative and artistic hub. Glasgow is a compact city and as a student at the GSA, you are at the heart of it. Our campus and student residence are situated a short walk from Sauchiehall street, one of the main pedestrian streets, and all that Glasgow has to offer, including arts venues, shops, bars, clubs, restaurants, galleries and museums. Scotland's other cities are within easy reach by road and rail. If you tire of city life, some of the best hill walking, climbing and skiing in the UK is not far away. The west coast of Scotland, with some of the country's most stunning coast line, is less than an hour away by train or car.
