Fashion Design University of Salford

Overview

The BA (Hons) in Fashion Design at the University of Salford is a creative and industry-oriented undergraduate programme that equips students with the practical and conceptual skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced global fashion industry. Students explore the full design process—from research and concept development to technical pattern cutting, construction, illustration and portfolio creation—while working on live briefs and projects that reflect real-world fashion challenges. Based in purpose-built studios with industry-standard technology, the course fosters individual creativity, resilience and a strong design voice, and includes opportunities for work placements, fashion shows and professional exposure that prepare graduates for careers as designers, stylists, pattern cutters or other creative roles in the fashion sector.

Why Fashion Design at University of Salford? The University of Salford is renowned for its strong standing in the fashion education sector, being ranked among the top 10 for Fashion and Textiles in the Guardian University Guide 2023. The programme has also been awarded the title of Best Programme for Undergraduate Fashion Design in the UK by The Business of Fashion in 2019. The university's location in Greater Manchester places students at the heart of a dynamic creative industry, providing numerous opportunities for networking and professional growth. With state-of-the-art facilities, including purpose-built studios and access to cutting-edge technology, students are well-equipped to thrive in the fast-paced fashion environment.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured over three years, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a career in fashion design. Key modules include:

• Fashion Design
• Fashion Design: Principles
• Fashion Contexts
• Fashion Illustration & CAD 1
• 3D Approaches to Design Research
• Fashion Illustration & CAD 2
• Critical Dialogues
• Fashion Design Specialism
• Work Placement: Fashion Design
• Digital Fashion Design
• Fashion Design Professionalism
• Design and Research for an External Brief
• Pre-collection
• Portfolio Module: Fashion Design
• Negotiated Major Project: Collection
• Major Project Proposal

Students will engage in hands-on projects, live briefs, and gain insights through industry placements, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the fashion sector.

Careers with Fashion Design

Graduates of the BA (Hons) in Fashion Design have a wide array of career opportunities available to them. Many alumni have secured positions with prestigious companies such as Adidas, Fred Perry, John Lewis, Levi’s, Max Mara, New Balance, and H&M. The programme also encourages entrepreneurial pursuits, equipping students with the skills to establish their own businesses in the fashion industry. The course not only prepares students for roles such as fashion designer, pattern cutter, and stylist but also opens pathways into visual merchandising, retail management, and illustration. With a strong emphasis on industry connections and real-world experience, graduates leave the programme ready to make their mark in the fashion world.