MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
MA Textile Design
Aldgate
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Textile Design program at London Metropolitan University is a comprehensive, creative, and research-driven course that prepares students to become innovative and skilled textile designers. This program offers an in-depth exploration of textile design concepts, from traditional methods to contemporary digital techniques, equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills required for success in the global textile and fashion industries. The course is designed for individuals with a passion for textiles who wish to push creative boundaries, explore sustainability, and develop new materials and processes. With a focus on research, technical expertise, and design innovation, the MA Textile Design program provides students with a broad understanding of textile production, design principles, and market trends. Graduates are prepared to work in various sectors, including fashion, interior design, product development, and more.
Curriculum: The MA Textile Design curriculum at London Metropolitan University is structured to offer a balanced blend of theory, practical work, and research. Core modules include Textile Techniques and Processes, Creative Pattern Making, Design Innovation and Sustainability, and Material Exploration. These modules provide students with a solid foundation in textile design techniques, from handcraft to digital technology. Students also have the opportunity to experiment with various materials, textile manipulation techniques, and cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and digital weaving. The program encourages students to develop an individual design style while equipping them with the technical skills necessary to produce both conceptual and commercially viable textile designs. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and design research, with modules such as Research Methods in Textile Design and Textile Design Theory, which help students contextualize their work within the broader design landscape. Throughout the program, students will refine their ability to create innovative textile solutions while considering aspects such as sustainability, material sourcing, and production processes. The curriculum culminates in a final project, where students showcase their unique textile collections, developed through a combination of research, design, and technical execution.
Research Focus: The MA Textile Design program places a strong emphasis on research and innovation, with a focus on both creative exploration and critical analysis. Research is integral to the program, encouraging students to explore new materials, techniques, and sustainable practices in textile design. Students are encouraged to investigate the relationship between textiles and the environment, exploring how the design process can contribute to sustainability in fashion, interiors, and product development. Emerging trends in textile innovation, including the use of technology in textile production and smart fabrics, are explored in depth. Students also engage with the historical and cultural contexts of textile design, providing a well-rounded foundation for their creative practice. Research outputs are encouraged to push the boundaries of traditional textile design, promoting new methodologies, innovative uses of materials, and the exploration of alternative production processes.
Industry Engagement: London Metropolitan University’s MA Textile Design program is closely linked with the textile and fashion industries, offering students valuable opportunities for industry engagement. The university maintains strong relationships with leading textile companies, fashion houses, design studios, and brands, providing students with access to live briefs, industry-led projects, internships, and collaborations. These industry engagements allow students to gain hands-on experience and apply their design skills to real-world challenges. The program also encourages students to participate in national and international exhibitions and design fairs, providing a platform for students to showcase their work to the wider design community. Through guest lectures, workshops, and mentoring from industry professionals, students are exposed to industry trends, best practices, and career opportunities.
Global Perspective: The MA Textile Design program at London Metropolitan University takes a global approach, encouraging students to explore international design trends and practices in textile design. Students are introduced to the diverse textile traditions and cultural contexts that shape textile design around the world, from traditional handloom weaving techniques to innovative digital fabrication methods. The program encourages cross-cultural learning, preparing students to work in an increasingly globalized design environment. Additionally, the university offers opportunities for students to collaborate with international partners, undertake study trips, and engage in global design initiatives. By exposing students to international design practices and issues such as global sustainability challenges and material innovation, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the global textile design industry.
Location
Aldgate
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 18150
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Postgraduate International Scholarships: International students applying for postgraduate courses at London Metropolitan University may be eligible for specific Postgraduate International Scholarships. These scholarships are aimed at high-achieving students and are available for a range of master’s degree programs. The scholarships provide a discount on tuition fees for international students and are typically awarded based on the applicant’s academic performance, relevant qualifications, and professional experience.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
Alumni Scholarships: For international students who are graduates of partner institutions, the Alumni Scholarship offers financial support for those seeking to pursue postgraduate studies at London Metropolitan University. This scholarship is typically offered as a fee reduction for alumni who wish to continue their education at the university. The goal of this scholarship is to foster long-term relationships between the university and its international partners while providing continued academic opportunities for its alumni.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
Graduates of the MA Textile Design program at London Metropolitan University are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and creative abilities to pursue diverse and exciting career paths in the dynamic world of textile design. The program’s emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and technical expertise opens up a wide range of opportunities in various industries, including fashion, interiors, product design, and beyond.
Textile Designer (Fashion): Many graduates of the MA Textile Design program go on to work as textile designers in the fashion industry. They are responsible for creating fabric prints, patterns, and textures that contribute to the overall aesthetic of fashion collections. Working for fashion houses, design studios, or as freelance designers, graduates design textiles for clothing, accessories, and other fashion-related products. They may work in both high fashion and mass-market fashion, ensuring that their textile designs are both visually striking and commercially viable. Their role may also involve sourcing materials, experimenting with dye techniques, and collaborating with garment designers to integrate textiles into finished collections.
Interior Textile Designer: Graduates can also specialize in interior textile design, creating fabrics, patterns, and materials for use in interior spaces. This includes designing textiles for curtains, upholstery, rugs, and wall coverings. Interior textile designers focus on blending aesthetics with functionality, creating designs that enhance the atmosphere of residential, commercial, or hospitality spaces. They may work for furniture companies, interior design firms, or fabric manufacturers, translating their creative concepts into practical solutions for interior environments. This career option allows graduates to explore the intersections of design, materials, and space.
Textile Surface Pattern Designer: A surface pattern designer specializes in creating two-dimensional designs that can be applied to a variety of textile products, from clothing to home textiles. Graduates of the MA Textile Design program may pursue careers as surface pattern designers, where they develop intricate, repeatable patterns that are printed or woven onto fabric. These designs are then used for clothing, accessories, upholstery, bedding, and more. Their role often involves a strong understanding of color theory, design composition, and fabric properties, ensuring that their patterns are both innovative and commercially appealing.
Textile Technologist: Textile technologists focus on the technical side of textile production, ensuring that textiles are manufactured with the right properties, durability, and quality standards. Graduates interested in the technical aspects of textiles may pursue careers as textile technologists, working in industries such as fashion manufacturing, textile engineering, or performance fabrics. They may be involved in testing fabrics for strength, elasticity, and sustainability, as well as overseeing the production process to ensure that the final product meets specific requirements. This career path involves working closely with both designers and manufacturers to bring textile concepts to life.
Textile Product Developer: Textile product developers are responsible for taking textile designs from concept to production. They work with manufacturers and suppliers to source materials, develop prototypes, and manage the production process. Graduates of the MA Textile Design program with an interest in product development can work in fashion, interior textiles, or industrial textiles, collaborating with designers and business teams to bring new products to market. Product developers must balance creativity with commercial viability, ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and practical needs.
Sustainable Textile Designer: With the growing focus on sustainability within the fashion and textile industries, many graduates choose to specialize in sustainable textile design. These designers focus on using eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and innovative techniques to create textiles that have a minimal environmental impact. They may work on designing organic or recycled fabrics, exploring natural dyeing methods, or contributing to the development of biodegradable textiles. Graduates interested in sustainability can work for sustainable fashion brands, interior design firms, or as independent designers who advocate for environmentally conscious practices.
Textile Educator or Lecturer: Graduates with a passion for teaching can pursue careers as textile design educators, sharing their expertise and creativity with the next generation of designers. They can teach at universities, design schools, or community education programs, offering courses on textile techniques, design theory, and creative practice. Educators also have the opportunity to develop curriculum, mentor students, and contribute to the advancement of textile design knowledge. This career path allows graduates to shape the future of the textile design industry by passing on their skills and insights to emerging talent.
Textile Researcher: For graduates interested in the academic or scientific side of textiles, a career in textile research offers opportunities to explore new materials, technologies, and techniques. Textile researchers work in academic institutions, research labs, or private industry, investigating ways to improve fabric properties, develop new textile materials, or explore the cultural and historical significance of textiles. Their work may focus on sustainability, performance textiles, or the development of new applications for textiles in fields such as healthcare, aerospace, or architecture.
Textile Manufacturer or Production Manager: Graduates can work as textile manufacturers or production managers, overseeing the production process from design to manufacturing. In this role, they ensure that textile products are produced efficiently, meet quality standards, and stay within budget. Production managers work closely with designers, suppliers, and manufacturing teams to ensure that the textiles are produced on time and to specification. This career option allows graduates to combine their creative design background with strong organizational and managerial skills.
Freelance Textile Designer: Some MA Textile Design graduates choose to work as freelance textile designers, offering their design services to clients across different industries. Freelancers may work with fashion brands, interior designers, or companies seeking custom textile designs. Freelancing allows graduates to have control over their creative output, work on a variety of projects, and build a portfolio of diverse textile design work. However, freelancers also need strong business acumen to manage their own schedules, contracts, and marketing efforts.
Textile Marketing and Sales Professional: Graduates interested in the commercial side of textiles can work in marketing or sales within the textile industry. They can help promote textile products, develop marketing campaigns, and establish relationships with retailers and manufacturers. Marketing professionals in the textile sector play a key role in ensuring that new designs and products reach their target markets and generate sales. They may work for textile manufacturers, design agencies, or retail companies that sell textile-based products.
