Have you got a first degree in fashion design and want to learn more? Have you got a first degree in a related discipline and are eager to crack the fashion industry? A graduate fashion design course may be for you. If you want to be a fashion designer professionally or internationally, you should consider studying a graduate course in fashion design. Not only will you acquire invaluable skills, but also, you will explore developments in business, lifestyle and contemporary culture in order to understand how they play a part in shaping fashion design. Get ahead in this highly competitive industry by studying a graduate fashion design course and discover what you can uniquely offer the world of fashion.

What Will I Learn?

Study here:

Aalto University in Helsinki in Finland

The American Intercontinental University - London

Study fashion & luxury at GCU London

Graduate courses in fashion design normally aim to strike a balance between practical, self-directed work and theoretical concepts. At graduate level, you should have a good idea of where your strengths lie and what your specialist area would be. A fashion design graduate course allows you to explore and experiment with your specialist area at an advanced level. Studying a graduate program will enable you to network more effectively and develop professional relationships with international fashion industries where appropriate.

Graduate courses in fashion design are many and varied. Some fashion design programs will focus more the historical and cultural influences on fashion, whereas others will offer more elective or optional subjects such as photography, styling, knitting, footwear design etc. It is up to you to decide the direction of your future career as a fashion designer and therefore, find the course that suits you. A graduate fashion design course will require you to undertake a research project of your choice which will largely be self-directed. Most fashion courses organise a fashion show at the end of each academic year as a celebration of the students' work and to allow graduating students to present their final collections to a wider audience.

What Do I Need?

In order to gain a place on a graduate course in fashion design, you will normally need a good first degree in fashion or a related subject. Sometimes university and college programs will accept applicants from non-academic backgrounds provided they can demonstrate equivalent experience through industry. Some of the better fashion design colleges will expect more so make sure you do your research before applying.
In addition to qualifications, universities and colleges will require you to have a proposal outlining your area of investigation. A good portfolio is essential. This must demonstrate your ability in drawing, design development, problem solving, colour work and interest in fashion. Your portfolio could take the form of slides, photos, drawings or a CD but these must be supported by a description of the projects you were doing. Some graduate fashion design courses may wish to see examples of written work such as an essay or report.

Career Opportunities

Once you have completed your graduate course in fashion design, you should be ready to enter the fashion industry as a professional designer. During your time at college or university, you will have acquired the skills and developed a professional creativity which is invaluable in securing your first position as a fashion designer. Most universities and colleges can offer help or advice to students before final graduation, and invaluable contacts can be made before you leave. Most universities and colleges are able to offer links between students and the fashion industry, and students are always encouraged to keep in touch for the future.

If you study a graduate fashion design course, you are valued as an innovator, working towards the industry's future. Many opportunities exist for graduates with international designers and multi-national companies, in addition to those who make it and become international names in their own right. Studying a graduate program in fashion design is an exciting and valuable enhancement of your skills, creativity, ideas and ultimately, your progression as a fashion designer.

Good Luck!