Course summary

Plymouth College of Art has been granted full university status and formally recognised with the new title of Arts University Plymouth, following approval by the Privy Council. This makes us the City of Plymouth’s first specialist arts university. The title of Arts University Plymouth signifies a change to the way that the world will see us, our position within the sector and the mobility of our graduates; but not a change in the way that we see ourselves or what we do. Arts University Plymouth will build upon the existing strength of our unique culture and incredible community; we have no plans to change the specialist focus of the work we do together. The name Arts University Plymouth will appear on our qualifications, making it easier for employers and peers to recognise that our students were taught at a leading specialist arts university. 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 material innovation to pattern-cutting and styling for magazines, fashion is one of the largest employers of all the UK’s creative industries. Follow your ambition and challenge the future of clothing construction on our cutting-edge Fashion Design course. As one of our students you’ll hone your attention to detail and fine tune your signature aesthetic without the confines of a house style. You’ll investigate sustainability and ethical manufacturing, acquiring a deep appreciation for every step of the commercial supply chain. You’ll also learn traditional techniques, and understand how to combine these with new methodologies – such as Gerber AccuMark, a 3D virtual prototyping and fashion design software, and our digital Fab Lab – to become a confident fashion designer. Through industry-led briefs, you will gain understanding of the crucial relationship between design, creativity, sustainability, project management and communication skills, along with insight into factors that impact design, development and production. You’ll enjoy cross collaborating with photographers, graphic designers and filmmakers to style the lookbook for your final collection. Our Fashion Studio is a large, light space with panoramic views and is comprehensively equipped with industry standard technologies. We encourage cross-disciplinary working, so you’ll be able to expand your skills by exploring our professional textile print studios, as well as workshops for jewellery and other making skills. Our digital Fab Lab houses the latest laser cutting and 3D printing technologies, giving your design ideas scope for diverse outcomes. You’ll also have the opportunity to use global trend forecasting tools WGSN and The Future Laboratory. Through national and international trips, expert industry speakers, and collaborations for specialist brands such as Finisterre and Hiut Denim, you’ll develop your market awareness and refine your design and construction skills. You’ll gain access to work placements with our extensive professional network, including Missoni, Cope and Vale, J.W. Anderson, Mary Katrantzou, Pentland Brands, Marks and Spencer, Denza, Paul Smith, All Saints, and more. Our staff are all experienced fashion practitioners, and you’ll 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 in London. Our graduates have secured placements with Jonathan Saunders, Alexander McQueen, Gareth Pugh, Lulu Guinness and at London Fashion Week. Graduates can become:

• Fashion designers

• Knitwear designers

• Stylists

• Buyers

• Tailors

• Fashion illustrators

• Pattern cutters

• Trend forecasters

• Visual merchandisers

• Studio managers