Want to study fashion? How to pick the right fashion course

You don’t want to be a fashion designer, you know you don’t have those
skills, but you love fashion and would love to work in the fashion industry
after university – so what university course should you choose? Picking the
right degree course can set you up for a great career path in the industry,
but careful steps should be taken to make sure you get the most out of your
3 or 4 years in education.

The number of fashion courses that are now offered by universities has
been steadily increasing with greater diversity than even just 5 years ago.
Specific degree courses focussing on the design process, marketing, PR,
communications, branding, buying, merchandising or garment technology are
all available at a wide range of universities.

Here is what to consider and how to pick the right course for you:

1. Is there an opportunity to intern/gain experience as part of your
studies?

A lot of fashion courses these days offer the option to undertake a
‘sandwich year’ or ‘placement year’ and can be a great opportunity to gain
vital industry experience to complement your studies. This usually means a
4 year degree course rather than 3 years and for some students being able
to finance this would play a part in the decision, as does the possibility
that you will have to relocate during that year.

2. Does the course have breadth and depth?

Whilst you have chosen a field to specialise in, it is important to gain
knowledge of the many different aspects and areas of the fashion industry.
Understanding a wider view of the industry alongside your chosen area will
be an added bonus. Making visits to university open days and discussing the
course structure and topics with lecturers will help you judge whether the
particular course you are considering will achieve this.

3. Will you have the opportunity to experience guest lecturers and
speakers from the industry?

It is crucial not only to learn the academic and technical side of the
industry but to also hear from the current professionals in the field. Each
course and university should expose you to experts who can provide up to
date knowledge and share their experience, skills and challenges of working
within the fashion industry.

4. How will you be assessed?

Whilst the number of fashion courses have proliferated, there is no
standard means of assessment across universities. Consider how you learn
best and what form of assessment will allow you to demonstrate your
knowledge and understanding. Whether your skill set lies with coursework
or exams, you should have this in mind when applying to universities.
Investigate how your grades will be determined and pick a course that works
in your favour thereby ensuring you achieve the best results possible.

5. What is the university and course employment rate?

Each university should showcase and publish their employment rate, i.e.
how many people gain jobs in the industry within the first 6 months after
graduating. Picking a fashion course that focuses on life after studying is
really important. You want to feel confident your teachers and lecturers
are preparing you for the working world.

6. What have previous students said about the course?

Does the course have a good reputation? Although you should always make
your decision based on what is right for you, it is worth trying to gauge
the reputation of the course and university. Could you contact some alumni
students on LinkedIn and ask them for their opinion of the course? With so
much choice, it may help to speak with someone either currently studying or
someone who has since graduated from the course.

It is essential to make sure you have fully investigated a range of
courses and universities before making an application. Prepare yourself
with all the facts. Speak to a range of people either currently studying
fashion or who have previously, for their advice and think hard about the
type of studying you want to do, and of course, visit the university
department to ask key questions.

Studying fashion is a wonderful opportunity to learn the ins and outs of
the industry before going into a job but you should be aware that the
fashion industry is a very competitive one, therefore, picking the right
course is vital.

Good luck!

By contributing guest editor Hannah Rafter, founder and Editor In
Chief of The Intern 247, a website dedicated to giving real insights into
the world of fashion internships. @theintern247

Photo credit: Startup Stock Photos, Pexels