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Sustainable Textile Technologies MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert

Fusing design with technical understanding in the research and development of high-performance and innovative textiles, this course will evolve your technical, practical and creative skills in textile design and production.

Overview

Student Nadir talks about his experience studying Textile Design, Technology and Innovation at DMU.

*This course was previously called Textile Design, Technology and Innovation

This course will challenge you to explore the diverse and novel application of sustainable textiles and push the boundaries of textile design and production. We aim to equip you with the creative skills to enter the industry with an innovative vision for the application of textile materials and the advanced technical expertise to design, construct and test garments in a specialist area.

We encourage applications from students from either design or technical backgrounds, and previous students on this course have created some of the most exciting, pioneering work by drawing on their wide-ranging areas of expertise. We have seen an engineering graduate using lasers to enhance the design process, a mechanical design engineer investigating the performance of lightweight synthetic motorcycle clothing and a contour design graduate developing clothing for amputees.

Sustainability is embedded into the curriculum. You will critically examine the ethical and environmental impact of design and explore a variety of materials and processes. Our range of optional modules span from real-world entrepreneurial skills of marketing and business planning to responsible design and manufacture.

You will learn in a supportive environment with a host of specialist facilities. Our team of academic staff and skilled technicians have experience working in industry and provide expert knowledge across garment and product technology, intimate apparel, textile technology and innovation, fabric construction, and sustainable and ethical practices. You will have the chance to work closely with industry professionals, enhancing your learning with opportunities to connect with a range of businesses, including those focusing on textile product research and development, innovative material development and sustainable design.

Key features

  • You can exit the course with a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate award depending on the credits you have successfully achieved.
  • We are recognised as one of the country’s most sustainable fashion and textiles schools (Green Gown Awards, 2021) and one of the best fashion schools in the world for 2022 (CEOWORLD, 2022).
  • Consider all aspects of textiles, from design through to construction and testing, developing the advanced creative and technical skills for a career in textiles or associated industries.
  • Tailor the course to your career aspirations by focusing on a specialist area of textiles, or selecting optional modules to gain professional skills for the creative entrepreneur.
  • Learn from our expert teaching team, who are all active in their own field and who maintain links with the commercial sector, ensuring they teach real-world, relevant skills.
  • Commercial visits to textile technology experts and guest lectures from sector professionals enhance the curriculum and give you industry insight.
  • You can choose to undertake a year-long work placement, gaining valuable experience to enhance and embed your practical and professional skills.
  • Our award-winning  Vijay Patel building has been designed to provide the space and facilities where all of our art and design students can develop their ideas and flourish.
  • Benefit from facilities include textile testing, colouration and research laboratories (physical performance testing, fibres, yarns and fabric dyeing and finishing), sample fabric construction (knit, weave, print, 3D print), and garment and sewn product manufacture.

Talk to our course team

If you would like to find out more about how this course can help you achieve your career ambitions, send a message to our course team [Dr Angela Davies] who would be happy to chat to you. Alternatively, you can register for our next postgraduate event or call our course enquirers team on +44 (0)116 2 50 60 70  / WhatsApp: 0797 0655 800.


Ellie-Jones

"My experience of studying at DMU has been fantastic. I cannot thank the DMU academics enough for the support and guidance I’ve received." - Ellie Jones, student and finalist in the Woolmark Performance Challenge. Learn more.

 


Scholarships:

We are committed to helping our graduates enhance their careers and personal development through further study, and there are a number of postgraduate scholarships on offer to help you achieve this.

International student scholarships

Find out about available international scholarships or visit our fees and funding page for more information.

 

More courses like this:

Digital Design MA
Fashion and Textiles MA
Product Design MA

  • UK
  • EU/International

Duration: One year full-time. Two years part-time.

Start date: September 2023


Fees and funding: 

2023/24 tuition fees for UK students will be £8,986 per year.

Find out more about course fees and available funding.

Additional costs: Here at DMU we provide excellent learning resources, including the Kimberlin Library and specialist workshops and studios. However, you should be aware that sometimes you may incur additional costs for this programme.

 

Duration: One year full-time

Start date: September 2023


Fees and funding: 

2023/24 tuition fees for EU and international students: £15,800

Find out more about course fees and available funding.

Additional costs: Here at DMU we provide excellent learning resources, including the Kimberlin Library and specialist workshops and studios. However, you should be aware that sometimes you may incur additional costs for this programme.

Entry criteria

Typical entry requirements 

You should have the equivalent or above of a 2:2 UK bachelor’s honours degree in a fashion or textile-related subject, management, business, art, design, or a related science, engineering or social science subject.

If you have other professional qualifications and industry experience, we will consider your application on an individual basis.

Interview

Non-standard applicants will be invited to attend an interview.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band (or equivalent) when you start the course is essential.

English Language tuition, delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.

Structure and assessment

Education 2030

We want to ensure you have the best learning experience possible and a supportive and nurturing learning community. That’s why we’re introducing a new block model for delivering the majority of our courses, known as Education 2030. This means a more simplified timetable where you will study one subject at a time instead of several at once. You will have more time to engage with your learning and get to know the teaching team and course mates. You will receive faster feedback through more regular assessment, and have a better study-life balance to enjoy other important aspects of university life.

Read more about Education 2030
 

Course modules

Teaching and assessments

Awards and memberships

 

Modules

Block 1: Textile Technology and Sustainability

In this module you will explore the design of textile materials and key technologies. Knowledge of different properties of fibres, how these properties translate into both yarns and different fabric structures will be introduced highlighting the environmental impact of fibre and material choice. The process of design will be introduced as an important criterion in the design, development and production of textile materials meeting the needs of a range of end uses.

You will also examine the development of textiles with enhanced properties with emphasis on technical textiles and smart innovation with a focus on the role of design as a driver for change and a sustainable future. Diverse and novel applications of textile materials will be explored.

You will be introduced to sustainability issues and approaches, including design strategies for the circular economy and sustainable resource use; lifecycle analysis of a product in relation to climate change, air, land and water pollution and human health impacts; importance of sustainable materials selection; the UN sustainable development goals; and issues of ethics in production and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) (including supply chain transparency and greenwashing).

Block 2: Specialist Research and Technical Skills

In the module you will be introduced to advanced research skills. You will consider the role of research within the context of fashion and textiles, and to reflect on your personal attributes, skills, and values as a contemporary researcher. Typical content will include research design; gathering, managing and analysing data; developing critical and ethical practices; and reporting and presenting research findings.  

Sustainable development and technical skills are also applied through delving deeper into fashion and textile research. You will develop your investigative skills in an area of personal interest with emphasis placed on sustainable and/or innovative textile development.

Block 3: Select one from the following:

  • Supply and Sourcing

This module provides an industry-based view into the practical components attributing to the planning and production of textile products. It focusses on current supply chain practices and reflects on future global market and industry trends and movements to give you an insight into how and when to source, production plan and practical understanding into the workings of the ‘Critical Path.’

Developments into sustainability within garment development and manufacture will be explored and you will consider best practice in this area as a core part of your work.

  • Technology for Design

Technological advancement in design and manufacturing techniques are growing exponentially. Designers of all specialisms are curious about how technology can help them create and innovate to develop new practice, effect change things and affect the way we live. This module aims to provide a platform for you to explore a range of technologies and help to advance your knowledge and practice in this area.

You will research a range of technologies and work with the staff team to identify an area which you would like to investigate, which could include computer aided design; computer visualisation; virtual prototyping; direct digital manufacturing and the development of new equipment, materials, artefacts, and devices. Staff will assist and provide guidance in the partnering of student and technology where possible, internal within the university or external in local industry.

  • Digital Development

Technology continues to provide creative, practical and sustainable solutions to global challenges faced by the fashion and textiles industry. Advances in key areas such as 3D prototyping, Extended Reality (XR) and sensing, scanning and fitting technologies have opened the job market resulting in new opportunities for designers with the relevant digital skill set.

This module aims to introduce you to practice-led methods of digital product development and creative communication for fashion and textiles. It aims to advance your knowledge of process and presentation in virtual environments and encourage disruptive thinking and innovative approaches. During the module you may focus on areas such as: 3D pattern cutting and prototyping garments and/or accessories; virtual asset creation and library management of textiles, materials and trims; virtual and Augmented Reality presentations; or body scanning and photogrammetry.

  • Sustainability Strategy and Design

Debates surrounding sustainability have become increasingly prominent due to greater awareness among consumers of environmental and ethical issues, as well as initiatives by many companies to improve their sustainable credentials. This module examines key historical and contemporary contexts relating to sustainable design and corporate strategy, unpicking the complex debates surrounding a range of issues from worker’s rights to product lifecycles. Alternative perspectives on the traditional production and consumption model will be introduced, and both practical and conceptual aspects considered.

This module addresses the needs of students aiming to work in design, manufacturing or retail, providing future managers and entrepreneurs with a clear overview of the major sustainability issues within their industry. The impact of ethical and environmental considerations on designed products, production and business ideology will be analysed. It will cover sustainable development, ethical supply chains, corporate sustainability strategy, circular economy, slow fashion/lifestyle design, lifecycle analysis, alternative production and consumption models, integrated system design/ sustainable innovation, climate change, biodiversity, toxicity and sustainable resources.

Block 4: Product Performance and Manufacturing Technologies

This module provides an understanding as to how material and component selection can influence the properties of a finished product and its fitness for purpose. With a focus on product performance, the importance of quality and the interpretation of test data will be examined through sessions undertaken on-site using industrial test laboratory apparatus. Differences in test methods, user requirements and retailer expectations will be explored critically analysing materials to be used for various clothing and non-clothing applications.

You will analyse a range of processes in the manufacture of textile clothing and products in an area of personal interest, taking a more theoretical or practical approach to suit your skill set. Product design, function, quality & fit-for-purpose for manufacture will be realised through a well-researched and justified proposal and report.

You will also focus on sustainable practices, and ethical and environmental implications in the design, development and manufacturing of textile innovation. Off site visits and guest lectures will provide an appreciation of both the commercial testing process, textile manufacturing and sustainable and technical textile R&D.

Blocks 5 and 6: Select one from the following:

  • Major Design Project

In this module you will be supported to demonstrate a systematic and comprehensive understanding of the techniques applicable to your own research and advanced scholarship in the completion of a major project. You will demonstrate your ability to use initiative and ingenuity, make complex decisions and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.

You will have the choice of either a major focus on design practice supported by a written critical evaluation (practice) or a major focus on the critical evaluation supported by a condensed design practice (theory). This should reflect your chosen path after graduation, should that be into design practice or continuing to an academic path.

  • Work-based Project

This module provides the opportunity to develop and demonstrate skills acquired from the course in a practical context - for example working with a fashion, textile, or design company on the development of a prototype innovation. It is anticipated that this work-based live project will include experience of working on the design or development of products within an area of fashion, textiles or design. You will bring together all aspects of the course ranging from research methodologies to discipline-specific modules. This work-based project will receive supervision from the host organisation and the university and outcomes will be negotiated and may include a mix of a research reports for the host and/or plans.

  • Dissertation

Your learning will culminate in a 12000-word dissertation on a research topic of your own choosing. You will demonstrate your ability to use initiative and ingenuity, make complex decisions and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.

  • Entrepreneurship Project

This module offers you the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills by turning a business idea into a business plan, conducting primary research on the viability of the plan and receiving feedback from experts.

Your project will be supported by a project supervisor and a mentor with entrepreneurial experience. You will prepare a report in the form of a business plan complete with an explanation of your business idea, the problem that the business idea suggests, a full market and financial analysis and a realistic plan for start-up and growth, as well as a summary presentation. You will present your plan to a panel of 'mock investors' and receive valuable feedback.

Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.


See pre-Education 2030 version of this course.

 

Overview

The programme is delivered primarily through lectures, seminars and practical workshops as well as tutorial guidance. 

Lectures deliver a discourse on a particular subject followed by seminars, which are used for holding discussions or for the exchanging of information in a smaller group. 

Practical workshops allow you to engage in hands-on design and development work using a range of specialist equipment.  

Tutorials are provided usually to discuss a subject on a one to one basis between the tutor and yourself; however you may find yourself in a small tutorial group to benefit from the contribution of others.

Throughout the programme the curriculum is enhanced by offsite visits and onsite visiting industry professionals. Offsite visits allow you to experience a range of companies, factories and facilities, who play a critical role in the textile industry relevant to the module curriculum. Visiting industry professionals from a variety of business experiences will form the basis of some lecture sessions onsite, where appropriate to the module curriculum.

Contact hours
In your first two terms you will normally attend around 12 hours of timetabled taught sessions including lectures, tutorials and workshop and studio sessions each week, and be expected to undertake at least 23 hours of independent study each week. Your third term will be pre-dominantly self-directed (including meetings with your supervisor), during which you can expect to undertake 35 hours of independent study each week.

Ranked as one of the best fashion schools in the world for 2022 (CEOWORLD, 2022) and in the top 10 in the UK for 'career after 15 months' (The Guardian University Guide 2022), our innovative and widely-respected courses help prepare students for fulfilling futures in this fast-paced industry.

Green Gown Award

The School of Fashion and Textiles won the Next Generation Learning and Skills Award in the Green Gowns Awards 2021 and received global recognition in the International Green Gown Awards 2022. These awards are the gold standard for sustainability in universities around the world and this puts DMU at the forefront of sustainable fashion and textiles education in the UK. Sustainability is at the heart of our curriculum and teaching, empowering our students to be agents of change within the industry.

UK Fashion and Textiles Association

We are members of the UK Fashion and Textile Association which ensures our teaching stays up to date with the latest developments in the sector and provides valuable industry links that enhance our courses.

green-gown
UKFT partner logo

 

Facilities and features

Art and design facilities

Our award-winning Vijay Patel building has been designed to provide the space and facilities where all of our art and design students can develop their ideas and flourish. 

The creative industries require imaginative graduates who can develop new ideas and products. Students use our sophisticated and contemporary workshops, labs and studios to experiment and test in the same way they will in industry, while the open and transparent spaces in the building encourage collaboration between disciplines. In doing so, the building prepares students for industry and helps develop them as future leaders in their respective fields. 

Take a look at our stunning showcase of the building at dmu.ac.uk/aad.

More flexible ways to learn

We offer an equitable and inclusive approach to learning and teaching for all our students. Known as the Universal Design for Learning (UDL), our teaching approach has been recognised as sector leading. UDL means we offer a wide variety of support, facilities and technology to all students, including those with disabilities and specific learning differences.

Just one of the ways we do this is by using ‘DMU Replay’ – a technology providing all students with anytime access to audio and/or visual material of lectures. This means students can revise taught material in a way that suits them best, whether it's replaying a recording of a class or adapting written material shared in class using specialist software.

Campus Centre

Our Learning Zones and The Greenhouse also provide space for group or individual work and study.

There are 1,600 study places across all library locations, more than 700 computer stations, laptops to borrow, free wi-fi and desktop power outlets.

You can also book rooms with plasma screens, laptops and DVD facilities for group work and presentations, secure an individual study room with adjustable lighting or make use of our assistive technology.

 

Opportunities and careers

Find the people who will open doors for you

DMU's award-winning careers service provides guaranteed work experience opportunities DMU Works
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Placements

During this course you will have the option to complete a placement year, an invaluable opportunity to put the skills developed during your degree into practice. This insight into the professional world will build on your knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing you to progress onto your chosen career.  Placements will normally take place between semester two and three.

Our careers programme DMU Works can help to hone your professional skills with mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and an assigned personal tutor will support you throughout your placement.

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DMU Global

This is our innovative international experience programme which aims to enrich your studies and expand your cultural horizons – helping you to become a global graduate, equipped to meet the needs of employers across the world.

Through DMU Global, we offer a wide range of opportunities including on-campus and UK activities, overseas study, internships, faculty-led field trips and volunteering, as well as Erasmus+ and international exchanges.

 

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Graduate careers

Our graduates pursue a range of roles, including product developers, textile technologists, textile chemists, product testers, project scientists, technical textile designers, across sportswear clothing, fashion and functional performance wear, and wearable technology. 

Progression routes from these would often lead to senior management, in roles such as production managers, heads of innovation, and product development. Many of our graduates have gone on to work for national and multinational companies such as Cleversocks and John Smedley while others start their own businesses. By helping you to develop sophisticated research skills, this course also provides excellent preparation to  progress onto a PhD.  

Graduate Ema who works as an Innovation Intern at Gymshark said: “I wanted a course that would make me stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in the Performance Sportswear industry. I really enjoyed how varied the course was and how we could tailor each module to suit our own areas of interest.” 

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