Course Insight

Fashion is a vast and endlessly growing industry, in constant need for creative, talented designers with taste and a fresh approach. Our BDes Fashion course will help you develop your creative side and re-think what fashion means today. You will gain a unique insight into all areas of the industry, from the development of textiles to the design and manufacture of fashion collections to the production of images and publications. You will work in a collaborative studio environment with exceptional facilities and industry-standard equipment. A broad introduction to Fashion, Textiles for Fashion and Fashion Communication from the very beginning will enable you to eventually deliver an industry-ready collection or publication at the end of the course.

Teaching and Learning

The Fashion Design programme involves a rich and diverse set of experiences designed to stimulate your ability to learn as well as encouraging a high level of critical reflection. Teaching is through projects, lectures, seminars and group and individual tutorials. You will collaborate on projects and contribute meaningfully to your peer group. Throughout the entire course you will attend lectures and seminars with students from across the department in order to develop a rigorous critical and analytical approach to your own work and the work of others. This also fosters a culture of collaboration between disciplines. On completion of the course you should expect to be fully aware of the business and working processes in your chosen area of creative practice.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used including projects, essays, group presentations and presentations of visual work. There are no exams. You will engage in written critical evaluation of your work and relate it to the broader context of Fashion.

Enrolment and Duration

This is a four-year full time programme. Each academic year usually commences in the first week of October and, in some cases, the last week of September. The academic year runs for a period of 32 weeks. Students may enroll up to two weeks before the course starting date however, early enrolment is advised as places are limited.

Entry Requirements

Due to the creative nature of the course, you will be considered on your own individual merit and potential to succeed. We may make different offers where appropriate to candidates who have a strong portfolio, or substantial relevant work/other experience and whose motivation and skills would enable them to succeed on the course. In your application, please give full details of any relevant work experience and qualifications.

Candidates must be at least 17 years of age by 1stSeptember of the year they wish to enter onto the course and must hold a Secondary School Diploma or Foundation Certificate/Diploma or equivalent. Candidates will also be required to be proficient in the English Language.

Graduation Requirements

The entire course comprises of a total of 37 modules over 4 years. To achieve the BDes degree, you must complete all modules to achieve the required 240 credits (ECTS*) for successful completion (See ‘Course Structure’).

* European Credit Transfer System

Where Next?

This course is an excellent preparation for a career in the fashion industry. Many of our graduates are now working as designers, product developers, pattern cutters, editors, stylists and illustrators in the fashion industry. You can also continue your academic career with a postgraduate degree in Fashion and Design.