MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
MA Design (Textiles)
Locksbrook campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Design (Textiles) program at Bath Spa University is typically a one-year full-time or two-year part-time course, attracting individuals with a strong foundation in textiles or related design disciplines who are passionate about material exploration and innovation. It is structured to encourage students to push the boundaries of traditional textile practices, explore new technologies and methodologies, and develop a sophisticated understanding of the role of textiles in contemporary culture. Students are encouraged to define their specific areas of interest within textiles, such as weave, knit, print, embroidery, mixed media, or sustainable textiles, and develop a personalized learning journey through project-based work and elective opportunities. A key element involves rigorous critical inquiry, experimentation with diverse materials and processes, and the creation of a compelling portfolio that showcases their unique textile aesthetic and conceptual depth. The program fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging peer feedback and the exchange of ideas within a vibrant community of material artists.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Design (Textiles) program is designed to provide a deep and comprehensive understanding of advanced textile design practices. Core modules typically explore topics such as advanced textile construction (weave, knit, etc.), surface design and printing techniques, digital textile design and fabrication, sustainable textile practices, material innovation, textile history and theory, and the professional practice of textile design. Students will engage with a range of materials and technologies, developing mastery in their chosen areas of focus. The program emphasizes the conceptual development of textile ideas, strategic thinking in material application, and the effective application of textile design to address diverse creative and functional challenges. Students are encouraged to undertake projects that involve research, experimentation, and the creation of innovative textile solutions for various audiences and contexts. The curriculum promotes critical reflection on contemporary textile design trends and the development of a personal material language rooted in informed practice.
Research Focus: The MA Design (Textiles) program at Bath Spa University benefits from a strong research environment within the School of Art, Film and Media and the wider Faculty of Arts and Design. The academic staff often comprises active textile researchers and practitioners who bring their cutting-edge work and insights into their teaching. The program encourages students to engage with current textile research, explore emerging material technologies, and develop their own research questions within their chosen areas of specialization. Students are expected to integrate research into their textile projects and their final research project or dissertation, contributing to the evolving discourse within textile design and material studies. The university's research strengths in areas such as sustainable design, craft, and digital fabrication provide a rich and interdisciplinary context for textile inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's MA Design (Textiles) program actively fosters connections with the professional textile industry. The program may facilitate guest lectures and workshops led by leading textile designers, manufacturers, and industry professionals from fashion, interiors, and craft sectors. Students may have opportunities to undertake live briefs, collaborate with external organizations on textile projects, and participate in industry events and exhibitions. The curriculum often incorporates elements of professional development, such as portfolio building, presenting textile designs, and understanding the business aspects of textile design. Networking opportunities with textile professionals and industry representatives are often facilitated through university events and career services. The program's location within a region with a strong textile heritage can also provide valuable industry links and opportunities for internships or placements.
Global Perspective: The MA Design (Textiles) program at Bath Spa University embraces a global perspective by exploring diverse textile traditions, international design trends, and the impact of globalization on the textile industry and material culture. The curriculum may include the study of textile history and techniques from a global standpoint, examining different cultural approaches to material use and design. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a rich and intercultural learning environment, fostering exchange and collaboration across different textile design perspectives. The program may also feature guest textile artists and designers from around the world or opportunities to participate in international textile workshops or competitions. This global outlook prepares graduates to be adaptable and culturally aware textile designers in an increasingly interconnected world of materials and making.
Location
Locksbrook campus
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 18560
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 65% 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 75.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students are also eligible for a range of scholarships, which may vary based on the course of study. These scholarships help to support students at the beginning of their master’s degree programs and can be highly competitive. Scholarships are awarded based on previous academic achievements, research proposals, and the applicant's personal statement.
Alumni Scholarships: Bath Spa University values its alumni community, and in recognition of this, it offers scholarships for international students who are former students of the university or have attended a Bath Spa University partner institution. The Alumni Scholarship is designed to reward those who have previously been part of the university and are returning to continue their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the innovative and practice-led MA Design (Textiles) program at Bath Spa University develop a highly specialized and creatively versatile skillset, positioning them for a wide range of impactful careers within the dynamic world of textiles and material innovation. The program's emphasis on individual artistic development, technical mastery, and conceptual strength equips graduates to thrive across diverse applications of textile design.
Textile Designer (Fashion/Interiors): Creating original textile designs for the fashion or interior design industries, developing patterns, textures, and material specifications.
Surface Pattern Designer: Developing innovative and commercially viable patterns for a wide range of products, including textiles, wallpaper, and packaging.
Woven Textile Designer: Specializing in the design and development of woven fabrics, exploring complex weave structures and material combinations.
Knitted Textile Designer: Focusing on the design and creation of knitted textiles for fashion, interiors, or technical applications, utilizing various knitting techniques and yarns.
Printed Textile Designer: Creating original designs for printed textiles, employing digital and traditional printing methods for fashion, interiors, and other applications.
Textile Artist/Maker: Developing and exhibiting textile-based artwork, exploring conceptual ideas through material manipulation and construction.
Sustainable Textile Designer: Focusing on environmentally and socially responsible textile design practices, exploring innovative and sustainable material solutions.
Textile Product Developer: Working with manufacturers to develop new textile products, overseeing the design and production process from concept to market.
Textile Consultant/Stylist: Providing expert advice on textile trends, material selection, and design direction for fashion or interior brands.
Textile Educator/Researcher: Teaching textile design at universities or art schools, or conducting research into new textile materials and technologies.
