Postgraduate Courses in Fashion Design
Studying a postgraduate course in fashion design is a worthwhile endeavour if you want an edge in the highly competitive fashion industry. If you’re a talented graduate with a good honours degree and a fabulous portfolio, a postgraduate course in fashion design could be for you. In a field where there is constant innovation, it is important to discover your niche and what you can uniquely offer the world of fashion. Read on to discover how a postgraduate course in fashion design can help bring out your talents and further your career.
British fashion education is regarded as the worlds best in creativity, professionalism and diversity. Postgraduates are valued as innovators working towards the industry's future. Many postgraduates are offered positions with international designers and multi-national companies, in addition to the fortunate few who go on to become international names in their own right. The quality and reputation of the British fashion industry is the result of a strong emphasis on the development of the individual and an understanding of craft and business practice within the context of historical and contemporary culture. Students are presented with a dynamic mix of inspirations and considerations; never easy, but never dull.
An MA in fashion design gives you the opportunity to explore developments in business, lifestyle and contemporary culture in order to understand how they play a part in shaping fashion design. Postgraduate courses usually endeavour to strike a balance between practical, self-directed work and theoretical concepts. For postgraduate level, you should have a good idea of where your strengths lie and what your specialism would be. A postgraduate course allows you to explore and experiment with your specialist area to an advanced level. You may also be expected to develop professional relationships with UK and international fashion industries where appropriate.
In order to gain a place on a postgraduate course in design, you will normally need a good honours degree in fashion or a related subject. Sometimes universities will accept applicants from non-academic backgrounds provided they can demonstrate equivalent experience through industry. In addition to qualifications, universities will require you to have a proposal outlining your area of investigation. A good portfolio which demonstrates your ability in drawing, design development, problem solving, colour work and interest in fashion is an essential pre-requisite for entry on a postgraduate course. This may take the form of slides, photos, drawings or a CD but these must be supported by a description of the projects you were doing. Some courses may wish to see examples of written work such as an essay or report. You will usually submit your portfolio in addition to or as part of an interview. Courses may have different entry requirements and regulations, so, if possible, you should check prospectus information or course leaflets.
Across the UK there is a great variety of postgraduate courses in fashion design. In addition, students may study the historical and cultural influences on fashion, take elective or optional subject in photography, styling, knitting, footwear design etc. A postgraduate course will require you to undertake a research project of your choice which will largely be self-directed. Most fashion courses organise a fashion show at the end of each academic year as a celebration of their students' work and to allow graduating students to present their final collections to a wider audience. A number of the UK Fashion courses take part in Graduate Fashion Week, held in London each June, and event which attracts a great deal of media as well as industry attention.
Upon completion of your postgraduate course you should be ready to enter the fashion industry as a professional designer. During your time at college/university, you will have acquired the skills and developed a professional creativity which is invaluable in securing your first position as a fashion designer. Most institutions can offer help or advice to students before final graduation, and invaluable contacts can be made before you leave. Most institutions are able to offer links between students and the fashion industry, and students are always encouraged to keep in touch for the future.
Studying a postgraduate course in fashion design is an exciting and valuable enhancement of your skills, creativity, ideas and ultimately, your progression as an fashion designer. If you want to know more about the know more about the fashion industry and the contribution you can make to it then further your learning and your talents by enrolling on a postgraduate course in fashion design.
With thanks to: Colin Renfrew, Course Leader, BA (Hons) Fashion with Textiles, Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication, U.K
