Royal College of Defence Studies

The Royal College of Defence Studies stands in the City of Westminster, London. It occupies a building near Buckingham Gate that once housed the Imperial Defence College from 1927 to 1939. The college moved to Seaford House in Belgrave Square after the Second World War. Seaford House remains its home today. The college forms part of the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom and is its most senior and prestigious component. The college trains the most promising senior officers from the British Armed Forces, diplomats from His Majesty’s Diplomatic Service and civil servants. It also welcomes overseas attendees from close allies of the United Kingdom. Each year around 110 full-time members attend the course from September to July. The course aims to prepare them for top posts by developing analytical powers and strategic vision. Since 2001, members can study for an MA in International Security and Strategy from King’s College London. Visitors find a stately building in Belgrave Square with rooms used for lectures and seminars. The Senior Directing Staff, a mix of active and retired officers, diplomats and civil servants, lead the teaching. The college’s alumni include many who have reached high positions in their professions. The Queen and Prince Philip visited in 2007 to mark the college’s 80th anniversary. The building itself reflects its long history and continuing role in national defence and international security.