Contour Fashion Innovation MA/MSc

Program Overview

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The Contour Fashion Innovation MA/MSc program at De Montfort University equips graduates with advanced skills in contour garment design, technology, and entrepreneurship. It fosters creativity, integrates sustainability, and prepares students for success in the competitive contour fashion industry. Graduates pursue careers as designers, pattern cutters, technologists, and entrepreneurs in leading fashion brands and companies.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Description:

The Contour Fashion Innovation MA/MSc program at De Montfort University delves into creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship within the specialized field of contour fashion. It equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful innovators in the industry. This program caters to both contour graduates with advanced pattern-cutting skills seeking to further their practice and fashion or textile graduates aspiring to specialize in contour design.

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Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Foster innovation and creativity within the contour fashion industry.
• Equip graduates with advanced technical skills in complex contour garment design and production.
• Integrate sustainability considerations into the design process.
• Prepare graduates for success in the competitive and rapidly evolving contour fashion industry.

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Key Features:

• Offers the opportunity to graduate with either an MA or MSc depending on the chosen study route and final project.
• Recognized as one of the UK's most sustainable fashion and textile schools (Green Gown Awards, 2021) and consistently ranked among the top fashion schools globally (CEOWORLD, 2022).
• Provides flexible learning experiences with the option to tailor modules to individual interests and career aspirations.
• Supplements classroom learning with guest lectures from industry professionals and field trips to contour-specific trade shows.
• Cultivates a supportive learning environment through a diverse student community within the School of Fashion and Textiles.
• Housed in the award-winning Vijay Patel building, offering dedicated space and facilities for creative exploration and development.

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Outline:

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Structure:

The program consists of:

• Block 1: Contour Foundations - Introduces the core principles and technical skills of contour garment design and construction.
• Block 2: Research Methods with Development Skills - Equips students with the research skills necessary for successful project development.
• Block 3: Students choose one module from the following:
• Supply and Sourcing
- Explores the sourcing and supply chain management aspects of the contour fashion industry.
• Technology for Design - Introduces digital design tools and technologies relevant to contour fashion.
• Digital Development - Focuses on developing digital skills for design and communication.
• Sustainability Strategy and Design - Integrates sustainability considerations into the design process.
• Contour Consolidation - Deepens understanding of advanced pattern-cutting techniques and garment construction specific to contour fashion.
• Block 5 and 6: Students choose one module from the following:
• Major Design Project
- Independent research and development of a major design project.
• Work-based Project - Collaboration with an industry partner on a real-world design project.
• Entrepreneurship Project - Develops the skills and knowledge needed to launch a successful fashion business.
• Modules: Each module focuses on a specific area of study within the contour fashion field, providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
• Contact Hours: During the first two terms, students typically attend around 10 hours of timetabled taught sessions each week, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, and studio sessions.
Additional independent study time is required (at least 25 hours per week).

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Modules:

• Contour Foundations: Introduces the fundamentals of contour garment design, pattern-cutting, and construction techniques.
• Research Methods with Development Skills: Equips students with the research skills needed for successful project development and critical analysis.
• Supply and Sourcing: Explores the sourcing and supply chain management aspects of the contour fashion industry.
• Technology for Design: Introduces digital design tools and technologies relevant to contour fashion.
• Digital Development: Focuses on developing digital skills for design and communication.
• Sustainability Strategy and Design: Integrates sustainability considerations into the design process.
• Contour Consolidation: Deepens understanding of advanced pattern-cutting techniques and garment construction specific to contour fashion.
• Major Design Project: Independent research and development of a major design project.
• Work-based Project: Collaboration with an industry partner on a real-world design project.
• Entrepreneurship Project: Develops the skills and knowledge needed to launch a successful fashion business.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Coursework assignments
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Examinations
• Project work

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Assessment Criteria:

• Creativity and innovation
• Technical skills and knowledge
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Research skills
• Communication skills
• Professionalism

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Studio sessions
• Guest lectures
• Industry visits

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Faculty:

• Experienced industry professionals with expertise in various aspects of contour fashion.
• Closely connected to the industry, ensuring that the curriculum and teaching methods remain relevant and progressive.

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Unique Approaches:

• Flexible learning approach allows students to tailor modules to their interests and career aspirations.
• Incorporation of digital technologies and sustainability considerations into the curriculum.
• Regular guest lectures from industry experts provide insights into the latest trends and advancements.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Contour Fashion Designer
• Pattern Cutter
• Technologist
• Design Manager
• Product Developer
• Entrepreneur
• Trend Forecaster
• PR and Communications Specialist

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Career Opportunities:

• Contour fashion brands and retailers
• Lingerie and swimwear companies
• Activewear and sportswear manufacturers
• Medical and technical textiles companies
• Fashion consultancies and agencies

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the competitive contour fashion industry.
• Many graduates pursue roles in design, technology, and pattern-cutting within leading fashion brands.
• Others become entrepreneurs and launch their own successful businesses.

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Other:

• The program welcomes applications from both contour graduates with advanced pattern-cutting skills and fashion or textile graduates with a passion for specialization in contour design.
• Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in the field of contour fashion and a commitment to developing their skills and knowledge.
• The program provides a supportive learning environment where students can develop their creativity and critical thinking skills while collaborating with peers and industry professionals.
• Graduates join a strong alumni network connected to the university and the wider contour fashion industry.

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2024/25 Full-time tuition fees for UK students: £9,435 per year 2024/25 tuition fees for EU and international students £15,800 per year