Course summary

Plymouth College of Art has been granted full university status and formally recognised with the new title of Arts University Plymouth, following approval by the Privy Council. This makes us the City of Plymouth’s first specialist arts university. The title of Arts University Plymouth signifies a change to the way that the world will see us, our position within the sector and the mobility of our graduates; but not a change in the way that we see ourselves or what we do. Arts University Plymouth will build upon the existing strength of our unique culture and incredible community; we have no plans to change the specialist focus of the work we do together. The name Arts University Plymouth will appear on our qualifications, making it easier for employers and peers to recognise that our students were taught at a leading specialist arts university. In May 2022 we were awarded the Best Small or Specialist University at the 2022 WhatUni Student Choice Awards, coming top in a list of well-respected specialist UK universities, based on unbiased and honest reviews from students across the UK, in a category that highlights the quality of our provision as a specialist creative university. These three-year courses all share a common distance-learning first year, while specialising in a chosen subject, then progressing into named awards in year two and three. The first year of your January Entry BA (Hons) Fashion Design course can be studied at home, in your own studio space, or at our dedicated international host institution. You will begin in January 2024, and your studies will finish in August 2024, allowing you to immediately progress on to your second year of study in September 2024. What will I study? Our BA (Hons) Fashion Design degree provides a comprehensive design education for independently-minded fashion thinkers and makers who are looking to influence change within the industry. From future forecasting, concept and design development, creative pattern cutting through to leading compelling marketing campaigns, Fashion is one of the largest employers in the UK’s creative industries - offering endless opportunities to those forward-thinking individuals who seek to challenge the assumptions of design, take creative risks and communicate their individual style through their work. You will have the freedom to hone your signature aesthetic without the confines of a house style. The course covers all aspects of the design process, from trend analysis, research and design development, drawing and illustration, colour and fabric development, historical and cultural studies, translation of ideas from 2D to 3D through to presentation, marketing and business development. You’ll learn to cut and manufacture quality one-off garments and collections with high levels of craftsmanship, and we’ll provide the tools for you to realise your ideas, and develop design specialisms in menswear, womenswear, lingerie, knitwear, performance, sportswear, and other technical routes. How will I learn? With online support from our expert teaching staff and technicians, you’ll investigate sustainable design and ethical manufacturing, acquiring a deep appreciation for every step of the commercial supply chain. You will become industry ready and develop entrepreneurial activity through collaborative projects with the Makers HQ, a visionary Plymouth College of Art initiative and community interest company, created to provide cut, make and trim services to the fashion industry, with a strong focus on achieving ethical and local British manufacture. Through expert industry speakers, live briefs and collaborations with brands like Finisterre and Hiut Denim you’ll develop market awareness, project management and communication skills, along with insight into factors that impact design, development and production.