Fashion Design (MA)

You’ll need a 2.2 degree. 

You’ll need to demonstrate your artistic ability by submitting a varied portfolio, including evidence of the process behind your work.  

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country. 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.0 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:

We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning. 

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview. 

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

You'll study this full-time master’s course over 12 months.

In the first 9 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll study the taught part of your course.   

In the first semester we’ll set project briefs for you to work on in the studio. These will give you experience of different ways of working and encourage you to experiment with ideas and materials while building your practical skills.  

In semester 2 you’ll explore your ideas for your final project, building on your personal interests and the skills and knowledge you have gained. You’ll also select an optional module to pursue an interest of your choice to complements your design studies.  

For the last 3 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently on your pieces in readiness for a professional photoshoot and major exhibition on campus. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops, as well as studio practice and individual study. You’ll also attend shows and exhibitions in London and attend special guest lectures. 

This course welcomes a small group of new students each year, so your lecturers will take a personal approach to teaching and work more closely with you to help develop your ideas. Our supportive and informal environment is created so you can approach academics to further your learning. You’ll receive feedback on a weekly basis, ensuring your learning is on track. 

On this course, you’ll develop your team working skills, strengthen your planning and project skills and learn to think critically and analytically. 

You can attend workshops covering a range topics, such as: 

• primary research  
• developing a sketchbook  
• CAD (computer aided design) 

Assessment

Assessment methods will vary between modules. Generally you will be assessed on coursework including:   

• your portfolio  
• final project collection 
• evidence of the research towards your studio practice 
• reflective assignments  

Academic Support

Every student has a personal academic tutor, who is your contact for any queries about the course or for personal support. Tutors are in the studio every week, working with you on a one-to-one basis and in groups. They will run workshops and discussions, and lead peer-to-peer feedback sessions. 

The school’s technical team is also available to help you use studio equipment and learn new techniques. 

This master’s degree will prepare you for a range of career paths in fashion design, such as: 

• fashion designer
• fashion buyer
• costume designer 
• pattern cutter 
• illustrator 
• stylist 
• trend forecaster 
• editor 
• buyer 
• visual merchandiser 
• social media blogger 
• teacher 

You’ll also be prepared to continue your education with PhD study. 

Previous students have gone on to: 

• become fashion designers 
• become design teachers  
• start their own labels  
• present their collection at Pure trade show in London 

Many students have completed internships at fashion houses, such as: 

• Gareth Pugh 
• Roksanda Ilincic 
• Jasper Garvida for Ethologie 
• Thomas Tait.  

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £18,812.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK and EU nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through our online form by using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

You may also be asked to provide:

• an art portfolio

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000