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UAL Research Strategy 2023-2028: Changing the world through our creative endeavour

  • Written byDan Austin
  • Published date 22 May 2023
Joanna Domagalska, 2022 BA Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL

University of the Arts London (UAL) launches its research strategy, focused on the vision of "changing the world through our creative endeavour," as part of its 10-year strategy. UAL aims to lead in creative education, innovation, and social impact in the coming decade.

Research and knowledge are central to UAL's transformative approach to addressing global challenges and driving positive change. UAL aims to enhance teaching methods, tackle pressing issues like climate change and social injustice, and foster growth in the creative sector and economy by pushing the boundaries of knowledge and creative practice.

The strategy identifies 4 objectives:

  1. Nurturing a world-leading research environment
  2. Demonstrating the value of creativity to society
  3. Using our strengths to tackle societal challenges
  4. Enhancing the quality of our teaching through research

In addition to outlining these objectives, the strategy provides an overview of UAL's current status, its vision, and the specific policies required to achieve the stated goals.

Our new strategy builds upon transformative work and outlines how we will support and continue to cultivate research at UAL. By realising our research ambitions, we will help fulfil our commitment to shaping a better world through creativity and innovation. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with our talented staff, students, external partners, and the wider community to push boundaries and leave a lasting impact. I would like to thank all those, from across the University who engaged and contributed so much to the development of this strategy.

— Professor David Mba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Knowledge Exchange, and Enterprise

UAL's research currently spans various disciplines, including Art, Architecture, Communication, Computing, Culture, Design, Education, Fashion, Media, Music, Performance, Photography and Screen.

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 cemented UAL’s position as the top institution for Art and Design research (A&D) – leading in the sector for the size and quality of its REF submission. Analysis of the results by Times Higher Education demonstrated that UAL dominated in A&D with the highest market share (7.2%) and is 1st for research power*.

Download the full strategy (PDF, 427KB)