Silversmithing & Jewellery Design

The BA (Hons) / MDes in Silversmithing and Jewellery Design is a five-year integrated masters programme that combines undergraduate study with an optional postgraduate year of advanced practice and research. Students develop technical expertise, independent thinking, and critical engagement with materials and ideas, exploring the traditions, innovations, and future possibilities of jewellery and silversmithing. Through studio practice and reflection, they investigate identity, memory, ritual, and storytelling while engaging with the cultural and societal roles of objects and adornment. Rooted in material enquiry, the programme encourages experimentation, craftsmanship, and conceptual exploration across both commercial and expressive contexts.

Students may graduate with a BA (Hons) after four years or continue to the fifth year for Master of Design, focusing on research and advanced creative practice. Graduates emerge as confident, skilled designers prepared for professional practice, industry, or postgraduate research in contemporary jewellery and metalwork. All degree programmes are validated by the University of Glasgow.

Founded in 1845, the Glasgow School of Art is one of the few remaining independent art schools in the UK. With a proven history of producing some of the world’s most influential and successful artists, designers and architects, the GSA’s studio-based specialist, practice-led education draws talented individuals with a shared passion and concern for visual culture from all over the world. The GSA has produced nine Turner Prize winners and world-renowned alumni, including Jasleen Kaur, Jenny Saville, Douglas Gordon and Alberta Whittle.

In 2026, the GSA was ranked 3rd in the UK and 8th in the world in the QS World University Subject Rankings.