Course description
Programme
Term one involves specialist taught modules where the potential and process for research is examined and analysed in terms of positive contribution to creative development. Students also undertake specialist design and technical activities to explore creatively the possibilities for garment design and enter prestigious national and international competitions. Modules include; Research Methodologies and Design Innovation.
Term two continues to develop students' research and creative potential but also introduces important skills to communicate and market their abilities. Through development of illustration, technical drawing and CAD, students will be able to successfully communicate with staff and future employers by promoting their own work. Practical development of design thinking continues through design research and 3D experimentation, to reach a confidence with the potential being explored and an agreed proposal for the major project. Module titles this term include: Fashion Promotion and Illustration and Design Research and Development. By the end of this term, students exhibit at the 'work in progress' exhibition to showcase the development and potential of their work.
The final term sees students working autonomously towards a final range/collection of clothing. This will demonstrate the success of their research and experimentation by showing innovative design and technology to positively contribute to the body of work within the Fashion Bodywear industries. Work is supported by staff input into professional practise and regular stage reviews. All work is exhibited at the final course exhibition and published in the course’s own student promotion publication which is distributed internationally.
Personal learning support is provided by module leaders and subject staff. Students are encouraged to use initiative and self-direction to facilitate effective research and experimentation. Assessment is regular and continuous. Tuition during term one and two builds on current knowledge and provides further skill and support for students to undertake investigation, experimentation, analysing and production within their major project.
Students are based within various technical suites in Fashion and Textiles, all of which have excellent and well equipped accommodation.
Dedicated tutorials and group reviews provide a strong group cohesiveness and a vibrant multi-specialised graduate community. IT facilities available include Mac, PC, CAD, LECTRA, graphics and multimedia labs for drawing, multimedia, DTP and 3D modelling. Technical suites include computerised lockstitch, zig zag and elastication machines, overlock, seam cover, steam beds, presses, bone casing, print, weave, knit, dye and textiles testing.
Students are encouraged to challenge the current understanding of garments both in terms of design and technology to discover new potential and design innovation.
Career opportunities
A wide range of graduate career opportunities are available. These include entry into Fashion/Bodywear design and manufacture companies at a higher level than entry from undergraduate courses, as well as the opportunity to launch own business ventures. Students may also want to follow career paths in teaching or undertake further research at PhD level. This highly creative and practical course offers students the opportunity to explore and develop design and application possibilities within the area of Fashion Bodywear. Students are encouraged to challenge the current understanding of garments both in terms of design and technology to discover new potential and design innovation. Research, design, technology, visual communication, marketing and entrepreneurial skills are fostered and supported through a series of progressive modules in each term.
