Course summary

Textile design plays an important role in fashion and interiors but is also at the cutting-edge of a wide range of other design solutions such as architecture, automotive and bio-materials. With sustainability and emerging technologies at the heart of contemporary design thinking, it is an exciting time for our students as the role of textiles is re-imagined across many aspects of modern life. On this dynamic and well-structured course, you will be introduced to a wide-range of textile processes across the key technical areas of print, weave, knit and embroidery, whilst embracing both digital technologies and traditional craft skills. The exciting potential of cross-disciplinary practice is supported and encouraged. Our one-year BA (Hons) Textile Design Top-Up course is a dynamic and exciting degree for those wanting to work in the fields of textile design, fashion, interiors and product. With creativity at the heart of learning, you will develop core design and technical skills whilst gaining vital professional and industry awareness. The course is brimming with opportunities to choose your own unique direction as a designer, and you will be supported by staff as you clarify and focus your personal interests. You will work with an exciting team of external practitioners, currently featuring material research consultant and founder of Ma-tt-er studio, Seetal Solanki; surface pattern designer Eve Campbell; Kate Morris, creator and designer of cruelty free vegan knitwear brand CROP; and artisan woven and embroidered textile manufacturer, Alice Timmis. Studying with us will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experiences required to succeed in a broad and diverse range of textile design related roles. By the end of your degree, you will have a clear vision of where you fit into the industry and a tailored professional portfolio to begin your journey as a professional. Why Choose Us?

• Exceptional access to workshops across disciplines.

• A great level of individual support from tutors and technical demonstrators.

• The opportunity to learn from a range of industry experts with our high-profile external partners and visiting speakers.

• A pioneering new module exploring colour, material and finish, co-developed with the industry.

• Live briefs – giving you professional experience before your graduate and developed alongside design studios and brand head offices both locally and nationally.

• The chance to have your work exhibited and sold across the globe at industry trade fairs such as Premier Vision in Paris and New York and New Designers.

• The opportunity to explore topical issue such as sustainability and the transformational potential of textiles in contemporary design.

• Career focused teaching is designed to support you in identifying professional aspirations from the breadth of opportunity within textile design, and help you to further tailor your learning and portfolio towards them.

• Our experienced and award-winning lecturers have extensive and broad insights to share with you, gained from key roles in industry or their experience working as practitioners.

• Module timescales are aligned with industry pace, to ensure our students are fully prepared to step into the world of work.

• A programme of visiting lecturers from around the world bringing cutting edge practice to HCA students.

• Successful completion of a UK based level 5 qualification such as a Foundation Degree (FdA) or HND in a related subject (evidence of prior learning will need to be provided).

• Portfolio submission or audition (as applicable) and successful interview.

• We are unable to offer this course to international applicants (including EU/EEA) who have overseas qualifications.