Goldsmiths, University of London

SUMMARY

Goldsmiths, University of London, is a leading institution for the arts, humanities, social sciences, and creative disciplines. Located in New Cross, South-East London, the university is recognised for its experimental approach to teaching, strong research culture, and contributions to design, media, cultural studies, psychology, computing, and the performing arts. It attracts students from around the world and maintains a reputation as one of the UK’s most influential centres for creative education and critical thinking.

HISTORY

Goldsmiths traces its beginnings to 1891, when the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths purchased and re-organised the former Royal Naval School building in New Cross. The aim was to create a technical and recreational institute that would serve the local working-class community through vocational training, arts, and literacy programmes. The institute initially focused on evening classes, handcraft skills, and educational outreach.

In 1904, the institute became part of the University of London and was renamed Goldsmiths’ College. This marked a major shift in its identity, transforming it from a technical institute into a teacher training college and expanding its academic responsibilities. Early twentieth-century developments strengthened its standing in education studies and pedagogical research. During the post-war period, Goldsmiths expanded significantly, both in student numbers and academic scope. The 1960s and 1970s were particularly formative, as the college embraced progressive academic ideas and built a reputation for innovation in the visual arts, music, media, and cultural theory. Its academic culture became known for openness, experimentation, and intellectual independence.

By the 1980s, Goldsmiths emerged as an important centre for contemporary art and design, producing several influential artists associated with the Young British Artists (YBA) movement. The fine art and design departments became internationally recognised, contributing to the university’s creative reputation. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the university continued diversifying its programmes by developing strengths in areas such as computing, psychology, and social sciences. Research centres and interdisciplinary initiatives strengthened its academic profile, helping Goldsmiths become a destination for both traditional and emerging fields.

Goldsmiths has remained committed to supporting London’s cultural landscape, forming collaborations with local communities, galleries, and public institutions. It has also expanded globally, attracting students from more than 130 countries and building international partnerships in research, digital innovation, and creative industries. In recent years, the university has focused on modernising its campus facilities, strengthening student support, and enhancing connections with creative and tech-led industries. Today, Goldsmiths stands as a forward-thinking institution rooted in history but aligned with contemporary academic and professional needs.

VISION

The founding vision of Goldsmiths was centred on accessibility, creativity, and community enrichment. The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths envisioned an institution dedicated to improving the lives of local residents through education, vocational training, and cultural engagement. Their intention was to create an inclusive space where learning could serve as a pathway to social mobility.

As Goldsmiths joined the University of London, this vision evolved into a broader academic mission: to nurture independent thinkers and cultivate originality. The college sought to encourage students to question norms, explore new ideas, and engage with the world’s social and cultural realities. Today, the university continues to uphold its founding ethos by promoting innovation, supporting diverse voices, and fostering interdisciplinary learning. Its commitment to creative expression, social awareness, and research remains central.

TOP DESIGN COURSES

Goldsmiths is widely respected for its design school, which encourages experimental practice and conceptual innovation. The BA Design programme is one of its flagship courses, offering students a dynamic environment to explore design as a social, material, and cultural process. It emphasises research-led practice and provides opportunities for collaboration across disciplines. Students and graduates have been successful in national and international competitions, winning awards including the New Designer of the Year Award, RSA Design Directions Award, and NESTA Creative Pioneer Programme.

The MA Design: Expanded Practice is another highly regarded programme. It offers pathways in areas such as communication, interaction, fashion, and critical design. Students develop professional skills while also engaging with theory, creative technologies, and industry-focused briefs, preparing them for careers in design studios, innovation labs, or independent practice. This is a radical post-disciplinary programme for practitioners who want to push the boundaries of what design can be and do.

Goldsmiths’ Department of Design postgraduate research programmes offer students the opportunity to redefine design research in a community of design practice. The thesis-based programme provides a written account of your research and contribution to knowledge on a subject related to design. Fully-funded ESRC studentships are available to research students via this Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP).

KEY TEAM

• Professor Frances Corner – Warden of Goldsmiths
• Professor Elisabeth Hill – Deputy Warden and Pro-Warden (Academic)
• Professor Alan Downie – Pro-Warden (Research and Enterprise)
• Professor Richard Sandell – Head of the School of Design
• Professor Michael Young – Head of the School of Social Sciences
• Professor Rebecca Charlton – Head of the School of Psychology

JOB INTEGRATION SERVICES

Goldsmiths offers a range of job integration and employability services designed to help students transition into the creative and professional world. Its Careers Service provides guidance sessions, CV workshops, interview support, and job-search assistance tailored to creative industries, tech roles, and academic pathways. The university works closely with employers through placements, internships, and live project collaborations.

Students across design, media, computing, and business programmes often work with London-based companies, cultural institutions, and start-ups. These partnerships give students practical experience and insight into industry expectations. Goldsmiths also organises career fairs, networking events, and alumni engagement programmes. These initiatives connect students with industry leaders, showcase emerging talent, and create a strong pipeline from classroom learning to professional opportunity.

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