Why study this course?
This undergraduate degree will see you learn technical skills as you explore a a variety of processes that encompass textile design for interiors, fashion, community work and wellbeing, fine art and accessories, spanning hand-worked traditional skills to digital industry software.
Throughout the course you’ll have opportunities to produce collections of textiles and surface techniques, all of which will be showcased in a professional setting in your final year.
You’ll have numerous opportunities to enter local and international competitions, along with the chance to exhibit your work through the University. What’s more, all your projects will be delivered with real-world industry partners, giving you invaluable work experience for when you transition into the world of work. Previous students have undertaken work placements with (and some have even gone on to work for) revered companies including Julien McDonald, Edward Crutchley, Mark Fast, Toogood, Mary Katrantzou, Alexander McQueen, ASOS, Timberland, The British Museum, Camira Fabrics, Toynbee Hall and Tissage handmade rugs.
More about this course
As a student of the School of Art, Architecture and Design you’ll become part of a strong network of learners and educators, where engaged professional practitioners facilitate and enrich your learning experience. You’ll also find encouragement and inspiration in your own student cohort, itself composed of a unique and inclusive variety of artists and designers. We recognise each student as an individual creative person with their own unique vision and personality.
Thanks to the collaborative, cross-disciplinary nature of the School, you’ll benefit from a wide range of workshop facilities and equipment in addition to those specific to textiles. After undertaking practicals in print, weave, knit and mixed media you’ll go on to pursue specific interests and material specialisation through both studio and contextual study.
During your studies you will have the opportunity to explore and experiment with the rug gun, dyeing, natural and chemical techniques, embroidery techniques from hand to computer, a variety of screen printing processes, and jacquard design software for weave.
As you progress, you’ll gain an understanding of commercial, ethical and industry standards, undertaking projects and work placements to develop professionalism and establish networks to further your career. All second and third year projects are delivered in collaboration with live projects and industry partners, ensuring your awareness of the diversity of employment directions. You’ll also have the option to partake in relevant textile industry trips, including London, Bradford, Paris and Florence.
We work with you to ensure you have the confidence and self-knowledge to enter the professional arena of textiles, with pride in who you are as a creative force. We’re proud to have industry links and live projects with multinational companies such as Adidas, Gainsborough Silk Weaving Co, Edward Crutchly, Lyle & Scott, The Print Archivist, furniture retailers Heal’s and Ligne Roset, Thornback Peel and Tissage rugs. Successful graduate designers include Majeda Clarke, Vicky Cowin, Stephanie Witts, Lisa Bloomer and Claire Whelan.
Accreditation of Prior Learning
Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course.
Modular structure
The modules listed below are for the academic year 2022/23 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.
Year 1 modules include:
3D Design Principles (core, 30 credits)
3D Visual Research and Communication (core, 30 credits)
Critical & Contextual Studies 1 (3D) (core, 30 credits)
Workshop Practice (core, 30 credits)
Year 2 modules include:
3D Design (core, 30 credits)
Critical & Contextual Studies 2 (3D) (core, 30 credits)
Design Resolution (core, 30 credits)
Materials, Technology and Markets (core, 30 credits)
Year 3 modules include:
3D Project Design & Development (core, 30 credits)
Critical & Contextual Studies 3: Dissertation (3D) (core, 30 credits)
Major Project Realisation: Textile Design (core, 30 credits)
World of Work (core, 30 credits)
Where this course can take you
Whether you aspire to be a craftsperson or a designer for the design industry, perhaps working for a huge high street brand or a couture house, our Textiles BA (Hons) will prepare you for a bright and exciting career.
Upon graduating, you can enter the professional design sectors in rich and varied ways. Our alumni have pursued successful careers, including in:
- education, as teachers at all levels
- providing studio design work
- managing small design studios (either their own or as employees)
