BA (Hons) Textile Design

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Textile Design program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and collaborative learning environment within dedicated textile studios equipped with a range of looms, knitting machines, printing facilities, and digital design software. It is structured to progressively build foundational textile skills and design principles in the first year, encourage specialization in chosen textile processes and develop individual design identities in the second, and culminate in self-directed major design projects, professional portfolio development, and a public degree show in the final year. Students benefit from dedicated studio space, access to a wide range of textile equipment, regular individual tutorials with experienced textile practitioners and academics, group critiques that foster critical dialogue, and opportunities for collaborative projects with industry partners. A key element involves encouraging students to explore diverse textile techniques, develop their understanding of material properties and applications, and articulate their design concepts with clarity and innovation.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Textile Design program is designed to provide a broad and in-depth engagement with contemporary textile design practices and theories. The first year typically introduces core textile processes (weave, knit, print, mixed media), color studies, drawing for textiles, and basic digital design software. The second year encourages greater specialization in chosen textile pathways and the development of individual design projects, alongside studies in textile history, trend forecasting, and sustainable design. The final year centers on the creation of a cohesive and innovative body of textile design work for the final degree exhibition, professional practice skills (including portfolio development, marketing, and understanding the textile industry), and critical analysis of their own and others' work. Students will engage in intensive studio practice, experimentation with materials and techniques, digital design development, trend research, and presentation skills. Assessment is primarily through coursework, including textile samples, design portfolios, written assignments, presentations, and the final degree show.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Textile Design program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the Bath School of Art, Film and Media. Faculty members are actively engaged in their own diverse textile practices and scholarly research across a wide range of textile design areas, including sustainable textiles, digital fabrication in textiles, and the history and cultural significance of textiles. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current debates in contemporary textile design, innovative material explorations, and critical perspectives on the role of textiles in society. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests through their textile practice and written assignments, fostering a critical and intellectual engagement with the medium.

Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA (Hons) Textile Design program actively fosters connections with the professional textile industry. The program may facilitate guest lectures by practicing textile designers, stylists, buyers, and manufacturers, providing students with valuable insights into current industry practices and career pathways. Students often have opportunities to participate in collaborative projects with industry partners, design competitions, and visits to textile mills and design studios. The curriculum includes professional practice modules that equip students with essential skills for the textile world, such as portfolio development, trend forecasting, understanding manufacturing processes, and networking.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Textile Design program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by exploring diverse textile traditions and contemporary design practices from around the world. The curriculum may include the study of non-Western textile techniques, the impact of globalization on textile production and consumption, and discussions on international textile fairs and design trends. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on textiles. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as ethical sourcing of materials, fair trade practices in the textile industry, and the role of textile design in addressing global challenges related to sustainability and cultural preservation.