Fashion Design - Foundation Degree (FdA)

For further information, please contact Mid-Cheshire College on 01606 74444 or via email info@midchesh.ac.uk

Who is the programme for?

This programme is aimed towards those wishing to pursue a career in many fields of design including fashion design, styling, illustration, buying, garment manufacture, pattern cutting and computer aided design for fashion.

How long does it take to complete?

This programme runs for 2 years full time or 3 - 4 years part time.

What qualifications do I need?

Students need to have 3 GCSEs at grade C or above, plus a minimum of 120 UCAS points from any of the following programmes:

• BTEC Extended Diploma/Certificate/Award
• A/S - A Levels
• AVCE

Alternatively an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent or a Pass in an appropriate kite-marked Access to Higher Education course

Where possible an academic or vocational reference will be required to ensure suitability for this level of programme.
Students who do not meet the above admissions requirements will be considered for entry if they can demonstrate that they have relevant vocational experience, motivation and personal qualities appropriate for Foundation Degree level work.

All applicants will have an interview where they will present their portfolio.

What is the programme structure?

Level 4
Specialist staff will work with students on projects that will encourage open ended visual research and translation of design ideas, enhanced with skill-based workshops. Students will encounter a wide variety of projects that will involve live assignments, competitions and exhibitions, which will enhance their understanding of the development of garment collections for a range of market levels.
Units include:
• Introduction to Fashion Design
• Pattern/Garment Production
• Design Directives
• Professional & Contextual Studies
• Producing a Capsule Collection
• Introduction to Portfolio Presentation

Level 5
Level five aims to promote the fulfilment of the students design ability and personal expression by way of an agreed individual final major project. Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of customer and market level, and present a collection of garments and a professional portfolio to be exhibited at the end of year degree show. It is anticipated that a sophisticated and informed approach is made to the work at this level.
Units include:
• Final Major Project (i) The Final Collection
• Professional & Contextual Studies
• Final Major Project (ii) Professional Portfolio

Previous students have gained work placements with the following national companies: Philip Treacy, Tatty Devine, Erdem, Saint-Hill Couture and the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, which provide a strong base when developing employer links.

What does it include?

The Fashion course has a strong vocational element, whilst maintaining high academic standards. Competition projects are assimilated into the course and work placements are encouraged. Visits to galleries, museums and shop research trips are organised, from locally to internationally. Industry visits may take place in support of projects and guest speakers from the local and national fashion industry visit to lecture and lead workshops.
Students have final projects presented at a fashion show, providing valuable vocational experience. Students will be prepared for employment in the relevant industry through vocationally specific curricula, development of employment skills and professional development whilst also having the opportunity to progress on to Honours Degree level. The fashion department is located within the brand new £7.5 million media, performing arts and sports building at the Hartford Campus and is fully fitted with specialist industry equipment including Gerber.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills are not required for this course.

Are there any special facilities for the programme?

Students will have the use of specialist industry equipment including Gerber and industry software such as Adobe Photoshop + Illustrator.

How is the programme assessed?

This programme will be assessed by a combination of methods e.g. portfolios, essays, reports, visual artwork and projects. Assessment is at the end of each module with progressional assessment at the end of each year.

Will there be any extra costs involved?

Students may need to purchase art materials, pattern cutting equipment and fabric for garment production.

What if I need support?
The College provides a range of learning support for students who like extra help with their studies. If you need help in deciding what to study or information on travel, finance, childcare, personal or health concerns, contact the Students Services desk.

What award will I achieve?

Foundation Degree (FdA) Fashion Design

Examining/Validating Body

University of Chester

What can I do next?

Students will have the opportunity to apply to progress on to the second or final year of an honours degree in a related area at any university. The College has strong links with Manchester Metropolitan University (http://www.mmu.ac.uk), Nottingham Trent University, Staffordshire University and the University of the West of England.

Students can also progress into employment in the fasion industry and pursue careers in many fields of design including fashion design, styling, illustration, buying, garment manufacture, pattern cutting and computer aided design for fashion.

Previous students have gained work placements with the following national companies: Philip Treacy, Tatty Devine, Erdem, Saint-Hill Couture and the Royal Exhange Theatre, Manchester, which provides a strong base when developing employer links.

Equal Opportunities

Mid Cheshire College is committed to the implementation of a policy to achieve equality of opportunity for all staff, students and members of the community it serves. In doing so the College will actively work to achieve equality regardless of age, race, skin colour, disability, gender, marital status, sexuality and faith.

How do I get further information?

Contact the college on 01606 74444, visit the website www.midchesh.ac.uk or email info@midchesh.ac.uk