Structure
The focus of your first year will be to ‘Investigate’ through a grounding in research, concept development, 2D illustration, basic technical skills and design development. The second year aims to ‘Develop’ your skills and knowledge, building on the foundation gained in the first year. Your third year will ‘Consolidate’ your learning by bringing together all the skills you have learnt into a final garment that reflects your chosen area of focus and individual design aesthetic.
In your first and second year, you will learn in regular timetabled practical workshops, inductions, lectures, seminars, group tutorials, one-to-one tutorials, practical and theoretical talks. Most of your study time will be in practical workshops or studios. In your third year there is a greater emphasis on independent study and one to one tutorials.
The assessments are designed to build on each other as you progress in your studies and you will have opportunities to receive feedback on your work throughout your learning journey. Assessment can be varied, but generally will take the form of a visual presentation either as a catwalk, or digital display.
Critical thinking and research skills related to contemporary issues in the global fashion and textiles industry are integrated in each year, alongside career development skills and opportunities. Project briefs will enable you to produce work to a professional standard that responds to current industry demands and you will develop a personal portfolio that can be used to launch your career after graduation.
Our expert course team covers a range of multi-disciplinary specialisms such as fashion print, fashion knitwear, stitch and embellishment. You will also have the opportunity to meet and network with our many visiting lecturers from industry, who have included Phoebe English, Jane Bowler, Kat Marks and Sarah Williams.
Contact hours
In your first year you will normally attend around 21 hours of timetabled taught sessions each week, and we expect you to undertake at least 21 further hours of independent study to complete project work and research.