This one year top-up programme offers direct entry into the final year of a Bachelors degree to students who have successfully completed a relevant HND (or equivalent), or who have completed the second year of relevant undergraduate degree, who wish to use their current qualifications to develop skills in international fashion practices. With a strong focus on employability and social responsibility, BA (Hons) International Fashion Business, is aimed at applicants from a variety of backgrounds who want to gain a professional understanding of the fashion industry. The programme structure will provide a sound knowledge of international fashion business and provide opportunities for applicants who would like to establish their own fashion brand or business in this competitive globalised industry. This course will equip graduates with a proficiency in the key skills required to help evolve the fashion industry to become more ethically conscious, socially progressive, culturally aware, and environmentally sustainable. The programme offers opportunities to develop a professional portfolio working alongside leading brands on dedicated live projects. Students will also respond to industry-focused and collaborative live briefs.

Career prospects

The unique mix of specialist pathways that this programme offers will enable successful graduates to locate their own practice and ambitions firmly within international industry and social contexts. The course encompasses cultural and business awareness and offers students the opportunity to promote their work through showcases and simulated real-world scenarios such as mock interviews or pitches. Students exiting with a strong portfolio of work will have the opportunity to progress directly into postgraduate level or secure employment.

As the programme offers a broad content, the job roles graduates are able to enter are broader than many competitor courses. Students who successfully complete the Business Practice pathway will go on to work in roles such as buying, merchandising, product development, sourcing, manufacturing as well as new and emerging roles within the industry.

Graduates will have the confidence to adapt in the fast-changing environment of the fashion industry and will have the literacy and understanding of contemporary and emerging technologies that will set them apart from other fashion graduates.