Textiles with foundation year | BA (Hons)

Program Overview

This four-year Textiles BA (Hons) program, including a foundation year, combines traditional handmaking skills with industry-relevant approaches. It emphasizes individuality, hands-on learning, and collaboration, preparing students for diverse careers in the textile and design industry. The program is ranked second in London for student satisfaction and fourth in the country for fashion and textiles.

Program Outline

Textiles (including foundation year) - BA (Hons)

Degree Overview

The program emphasizes individuality, fostering student voices and identities to become well-rounded design professionals. It prioritizes hands-on learning through workshops, collaborative efforts, and individual tutorials, focusing on developing creative, confident designers who can effectively communicate their ideas in professional contexts. The curriculum blends traditional handmaking skills in print, weaving, knit, and stitch with industry-relevant approaches, bridging the gap between historical practices and contemporary technologies. Collaborative projects with real-world industry partners provide valuable insight into the professional landscape, challenging students with fast-paced briefs.

Key objectives:

• Equipping students with the skills required for foundation year (Year 0)
• Providing students with specialized knowledge and skills in textiles studies
• Allowing students flexibility to switch to various specializations within art or design (should they desire to do so during the foundation year)
• Nurturing creative talents and professional development
• Building a network of industry partners and providing opportunities for practical experiences

Outline

Year 0: Foundation Year

• Introduces students to various cultural and contextual practices through small-scale studio and workshop projects
• Emphasizes practical and theoretical exploration through assignments, readings, and exercises
• Equips students with the skills necessary for higher education
• Students develop critical and analytical skills through written assignments and presentations

Year 1

• Focuses on foundational skills and exploration of various materials, methods, and presentation formats
• Explores digital and analogue media for creative expression and experimentation
• Emphasizes visual communication through drawing, photography, collage, AI, and digital platforms

Year 2

• Develops more advanced skills and techniques in specific chosen areas
• Students apply their knowledge to real-world projects through industry partnerships
• Fosters collaboration and peer learning through teamwork and presentations

Year 3

• Culminates in the development of a substantial portfolio
• Students undertake the Major Project Resolution module, focusing on their chosen textile specialization
• Requires completion of Professional Practice 2 for professional preparation and career launch

Assessment

• Projects and portfolio submissions: These demonstrate creative development, technical proficiency, and application of knowledge.
• Essays and written assignments: These assess critical thinking, research skills, and written communication abilities.
• Presentations: These evaluate public speaking skills, ability to engage an audience, and articulate creative concepts.
• Professional practice portfolio: This showcases students' professional development and preparedness for the industry.

Teaching

• Practical workshops: These provide hands-on experience and development of technical skills.
• Supported experimentation: Students are encouraged to explore new ideas and materials with guidance from tutors.
• Lectures and discussion groups: These provide theoretical grounding and opportunities for critical engagement with course topics.
• Self-directed reflective explorations: Students are encouraged to independently explore and develop their creative voice.

Careers

• Textile designer
• Fashion designer
• Print designer
• Weave designer
• Knit designer
• Surface pattern designer
• Interior designer
• Product designer
• Textile artist
• Entrepreneur
• Further studies in the field

Other

• The program is ranked second in London for overall student satisfaction according to the National Student Survey 2022.
• London Metropolitan University is ranked fourth in the country for fashion and textiles according to the Guardian university league tables 2022.
• Students have the opportunity to exhibit their work at the annual summer exhibition in the final year.
• The program offers flexibility for students to switch specializations innerhalb der Kunst or Design während des Foundation-Jahres.