The BA (Hons) Fashion Design & Marketing programme offers an integrated combination of creative design skills and strategic marketing knowledge tailored to the dynamic fashion industry. It is an interdisciplinary undergraduate programme that synthesizes technical expertise and communication studies in creation, innovation, and the inspiration of new talents in fashion. Through courses and projects, students are prepared by learning design within the context of the entire creative process, enabling them to thrive in the competitive global fashion market.
The programme is offered in collaboration with the University of Derby, a university with a strong tradition in Fashion & Textiles and a leading position in the rankings for Marketing studies (TOP5 in the UK for Marketing & PR studies, Guardian 2024).
What you will learn
With the aim of fostering creativity, cultivating aesthetic sensitivity, and sharpening commercial acumen, the primary distinction of the BA (Hons) Fashion Design & Marketing programme at the University of Derby lies in the level of individual experimentation and the implementation of ideas and techniques, as a basis for creating communication strategies that connect the creator with the audience. Key programme areas include:
Fundamental design principles: The programme begins with a strong emphasis on the principles of design, nurturing students’ creativity through courses in fashion illustration, pattern making, garment construction, textiles, and textile manufacturing. Practical workshops in the fully equipped Fashion Studios of the School provide students with the opportunity to apply their creativity to real-world scenarios.
Marketing Strategies: Complementing the design modules, the curriculum delves into marketing strategies in the fashion industry where the aim, especially in the context of a campaign, is often to promote a philosophy, an idea, or an aspirational lifestyle, which aims to inspire the consumer and enhance the product.
Here, the concepts of consumer behaviour, branding, retail management, digital marketing and trend analysis are developed for students to understand how to effectively position and promote fashion creations.
Applied Skills Through internships, projects and collaborations with brands and fashion houses, students gain hands-on experience and develop a comprehensive skill set, combining artistic vision with business acumen.
Fashion and Technology The integration of cutting-edge technologies and software used in fashion is an important aspect of the programme. Students are trained in CAD (Computer-Aided Design), Illustrator applications, two-dimensional/three-dimensional (2D/3D) modeling, and other relevant digital tools to enhance their skills in design and marketing.
Critical Thinking and Innovation The programme encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Students are called upon to explore sustainability, ethical practices, and cultural influences in fashion, promoting a holistic understanding of the industry.
Portfolio Creation Throughout the programme, students compile a diverse portfolio showcasing their design projects, marketing campaigns, and strategic initiatives. This portfolio serves as a professional tool for entering the job market or continuing studies at the postgraduate level.
In the first year, you will be trained in the basic principles of fashion design practice and market research for the ready-to-wear market.
In the second year, greater emphasis is placed on the commercial world, with a focus on branding and influencing. You will be encouraged to participate in competitions in Greece and abroad.
In the third year, you will have a unique opportunity to promote your thinking and practice through a self-managed process of risk-taking, experimentation, and problem-solving. Sections dedicated to businesses and entrepreneurship appropriately position these activities within a commercial framework.