University of Derby United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Fashion 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

Embark on a creative journey with the BA (Hons) Fashion with Foundation Year at the University of Derby, designed for aspiring designers eager to make their mark on the fashion industry. This course provides a robust introduction to the principles of fashion design, equipping you with essential creative and technical skills. You will explore the dynamic interplay between design, research, and cultural context, preparing you for a career where innovation and artistic vision are paramount. This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive and supportive environment to develop their unique design voice and professional capabilities.

Your studies will unfold over four years, beginning with a foundation year focused on core creative practices and skills, including history and theory, 2D and 3D making, and technologies. As you progress, you will delve into specialized modules such as design, research, and inspiration, culminating in a significant independent project or dissertation in your final year. This course is delivered on campus full-time, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for professional development, potentially including a placement year. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, ready to pursue diverse career paths within the global fashion landscape.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Fashion with Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of fashion design, beginning with foundational creative studies in history, theory, and technology. Students will develop essential 2D and 3D making skills before progressing to discovering and developing their individual design practice. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research, and professional development, culminating in a negotiated project and a critical exploration of personal professional direction within the fashion industry.

1 Foundation Year

History and Theory of Creative Practice
Creative Studies
Creative Technologies
Creative Skills: 2D and 3D Making
Negotiated Project

2 Year One

Discovering my Practice
Design, Research and Inspiration
Thinking Through Design
Design, Culture and Curiosity

3 Year Two

Exploring Design
Developing My Practice
Design: Theory, Making and Meaning

4 Year Two

My Placement: Being A Professional
Social Design
Entrepreneurial Design Project

5 Year Three

Negotiating My Practice
Resolution and Realisation
Critical Voice: Research and Professional Direction

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

13% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,268.00 USD 20,951.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,122.00 USD 83,805.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Broadcasting & TelevisionCorporate Training & DevelopmentEvent Promotion & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesJournalism & ReportingPhotojournalism & Visual MediaSocial Media & Content StrategyStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist ManagementVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Derby Theatre

Why Study BA (Hons) Fashion with Foundation Year at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby 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 with Foundation Year at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

For degree courses, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students are required to have an IELTS score of at least 6 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. This ensures students have the necessary English proficiency for the course.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles for graduates may include Fashion Designer, Textile Designer, Fashion Buyer, Fashion Merchandiser, and Fashion Marketer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA (Hons) Fashion with Foundation Year at the University of Derby focuses on fashion design principles and technical skills. It includes foundational studies in design and textiles, preparing students for advanced learning in the fashion industry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA (Hons) Fashion with Foundation Year is September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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