BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year at Southampton Solent University is your pathway to a dynamic career in the global fashion industry. This comprehensive undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring designers eager to develop a strong foundation in fashion illustration, technical drawing, and concept development. You will explore the entire design process, from initial research and trend forecasting to the realisation of finished garments, gaining critical skills in areas such as pattern cutting, garment construction, and digital design. This program is ideal for students passionate about creative expression and ready to build a distinctive design identity.

You will study this course full-time on campus over four years, including a dedicated foundation year to build essential creative, technical, and study skills. Throughout your degree, you will engage in practical workshops, industry-focused projects, and a significant work-based learning opportunity, allowing you to gain invaluable professional experience. You will develop a strong portfolio showcasing your innovative designs and technical proficiency, preparing you for roles in fashion design, trend forecasting, or garment production within the competitive fashion market.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year program provides a comprehensive introduction to the fashion industry, beginning with foundational skills in industry awareness, materials, and research. Students will progress to developing core fashion design competencies, including illustration, concept development, and realization, alongside theoretical understanding. The curriculum further explores specialized areas like tailoring and streetwear, culminating in the creation of a major collection and professional portfolio, with opportunities for advanced professional practice or dissertation work.

1 Foundation year

Industry Skills
Industry Awareness
Materials and Methods
Research and Ideas Development
Personal Development Planning
Degree-related Project

2 Year one

Fashion Illustration
Research and Concept Development
Fashion Design Development
Fashion Theory I
2D Fashion Design
Fashion Design Realisation

3 Year two

Tailoring
Streetwear
Professional Practice I
Capsule Collection
Fashion Theory II

4 Final year

Collection Research and Development
Work Based Learning
Fashion Design Major Project
Fashion Design Portfolio

5 Optional modules

Professional Practice II
Dissertation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 99,243.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingBanking & Financial ServicesBrand ManagementBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesDigital MarketingIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringMarket Research & InsightsMedia Planning & BuyingSocial Media & Community ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks while enrolled in degree courses. No additional work permit is required for this arrangement.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants need to meet the IELTS requirements, which include a minimum overall score of 6.0, with no individual score below 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Ensure your English proficiency matches these criteria for successful admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Fashion Designers, Textile Designers, Pattern Makers, Trend Analysts, and Fashion Stylists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course includes a foundation year to develop essential creative, technical, and study skills, followed by an in-depth BA program that covers the fashion design process and allows exploration of menswear and womenswear. Students will also tackle both creative and live commercial projects to build their individual design identity.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Foundation Year course in either January or September. Choose the month that best fits your schedule for a successful start.
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