Programme summary for FdA Textiles and Fashion
About the programme
Programme structure
The Foundation Degree in Textiles and Fashion Programme is delivered over two years on a full-time basis and over three years part-time study.
In the first year of the programme, you will be introduced to all the basic technical and creative skills you need to function effectively in the industry. It is anticipated that students will be entering the programme with a range of backgrounds and abilities and it is hoped that year one modules will allow every individual an opportunity to level up their skill base where appropriate. Year two is focused on personal development and work placement. You will focus on self initiated projects within a defined modular framework which culminates in the final semester when you will produce a fashion /textile collection which is exhibited in a Graduate Show in London (this forms part of the final assessment process).
Throughout the programme you are introduced to an exciting range of professional shows / forums which relate to fashion textile industry practice. The programme offers an annual 3–4 day visit to Paris with staff at the beginning of Semester B to coincide with the “Premiere Vision” Trade Show. This study visit is a great insight into how the industry operates.
The Foundation programme has an industry focus and within each taught module you are introduced to aspects of professional practice within the industry. The programme is supported by a range of visiting lecturers who work within the fashion / textile industry.
After graduation you have the option of progressing on to the final year of either the BA Hons Fashion Design or BA Hons Fashion Design with Placement Year, OR BA Hons Printed Textile Design at UEL, or seek employment in the textile or fashion industries.
Career opportunities
After completing levels one and two, students can progress on to one of the undergraduate programmes in the School of AVA at UEL, BA Hons Fashion Design OR BA Hons Fashion Design with Placement Year, (4 years) OR BA Hons Printed Textile Design, or apply for work in the textile / fashion industry for example: printed textile design for fashion or interiors; theatre costume design; accessory design; knitwear design; running creative workshops for adult learners; textile artist, fashion designer; fashion designer maker; and CAD design for fashion and textiles.
Support
On enrolment you are allocated a personal tutor, who will normally be one of the tutors involved in the delivery of the programme. In induction week, each student has a one to one tutorial with their Tutor; where location, availability and the types and levels of support offered will be discussed.
It is the role of the personal tutor to provide support and advice on practical and personal issues, in addition to feedback on work and academic progress. If there are issues that need to be sorted, the personal tutor is your ‘first port of call’. If you are identified as having special needs or requiring learning support, you will be referred to Learner Support Services located in G block to identify the type of support you require, and initiate the process. An accessible Counselling service; ESOL Support; Communications for the Deaf; Sexual Health Services; links to other agencies offering support in areas of drugs and alcohol abuse, mental health and homeless crisis support are available in Learner Support Services. Appointments can be made personally or via the personal tutor.
Admission
Students will be invited to attend an interview, with the Programme Leader, showing a portfolio of original art/design work which is appropriate to the admission standards of the programme, with evidence of one or more of the following:
- 4 GCSE’s, including English at Grade C or above
- BTEC National Diploma in a complementary area of study
- GNVQ Advanced Diploma in Art and Design
- One A Level pass
- City and Guilds level 3
- BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- Creative and technical potential to benefit from and successfully complete the programme
- Or such other qualifications and/or experience deemed equivalent to the above by the Programme Leader
Mature students are particularly welcome. Prior Certified Learning will be applied where appropriate in line with UEL Guidelines.
Students may be admitted through Accreditation of Experiential Learning (AEL) or Accreditation of Certificated Learning (ACL) processes.
In the case of applicants whose first language is not English, then IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) is required. International qualifications will be checked for appropriate matriculation to UK Higher Education undergraduate programmes.
Key facts
You can start many programmes in either September or February and applications are simple to make. Click below to:
Apply online Textiles and Fashion (FdA)
