Course summary

Arts University Plymouth is an arts university for the 21st century, preparing students who are uniquely placed to provide creative solutions to the complex global challenges of a changing world. Formerly known as Plymouth College of Art, we were granted full university title in Spring 2022. We are now the city of Plymouth’s first and only specialist arts university, allowing us to offer our students a dynamic and unique learning experience. 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. From forecasting, concept and design development and creative pattern cutting through to the leadership of 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. A spirit of independence runs through our vibrant fashion programme; we empower and prepare young creatives to become versatile future thinkers, makers and designers. By combining traditional craft techniques with digital technologies, you will transform your concepts from 2D fabrics into 3D forms. You will learn ways of thinking that will inform your personal design philosophies and lead you towards an individualised specialism. Our Fashion Studio is a large, light space with panoramic views, and it is comprehensively equipped with industry standard technologies, but your experience at our university is not limited to just the Fashion Studio. We encourage cross-disciplinary and collaborative working, where you can expand your skills by exploring our professional textile print studios, workshops for jewellery and ceramics and our FabLab, which houses the latest laser cutting, 3D printing and design technology. You will have the freedom to hone your signature aesthetic without the confines of a house style. The programme 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 and the translation of ideas from 2D to 3D, through to presentation, marketing and business development. You will use global trend forecasting tools and learn software. 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 wear and other technical routes. 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. Through expert industry speakers, live briefs and collaborations with brands like Phoebe English, 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. You will engage with industry events in London, Paris, New York and Berlin, as well as having the chance to showcase your work at Graduate Fashion Week. Through our extensive professional network, our students have secured placements with Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Gareth Pugh and Lulu Guinness. Graduates can become:

• fashion designers

• knitwear designers

• stylists

• buyers

• fashion illustrators

• pattern cutters

• trend forecasters

• visual merchandisers

• studio managers