Design and develop fabrics for fashion, interiors and decorative surfaces.You’ll explore traditional processes as well as new technologies, with opportunities for industry projects and placements.
100%overall satisfaction - BA (Hons) Textile Design**National Student Survey, 2020
100%graduates in work or further study within 6 months of completing course**HESA 2016
Our excellent specialist textile design and production expertise and facilities, combined with our staff expertise ensures you that this course is distinctive in offering a rich combination of traditional and advanced new technology.
Textile Design at Derby offers the three creative areas of Print, Knit and Weave. It is a place where traditional processes are not forgotten alongside new technologies. Our students design and develop fabrics for fashion, interiors and decorative surfaces. At the end of three years of study our graduates are ready to work effectively and successfully in all areas of the Textile Industry. Our new Chandos Pole St Fashion and Textiles ”hub” is an exciting place to learn in a contemporary and vibrant environment.
In the 2020 National Student Survey (NSS), 100% of students were satisfied with the overall quality of the course. The NSS is managed by the Office for Students and gathers opinions of current students on the course. Additional results include:
96% of students said they were satisfied with the teaching on the course
96% of students said they were satisfied with the academic support on the course
94% of students said they were satisfied with the assessment and feedback on the course
94% of students said they were satisfied with the learning opportunities on the course
You'll develop and realise your potential through a varied programme of studio-based projects, lectures, debates, competitions, live project work, group critiques, field visits, tutorials, technical demonstrations, written assignments, seminars and practical workshops.
A European professional and cultural fieldtrip is an integral part of the final year of study.
We provide strong links with the industry, with alumni holding design positions at Stephen and David Walters, Cristal Martin, Donna Karan and Boden. Artsthread, the largest student global website is the brainchild of a Textile graduate and the founder continues to support our students. There are excellent opportunities for internships and summer placements, through industry led projects and competitions. Student Sarah Briggs spent her summer employed as a design intern by Sophie Steller Studio.
Some recent national successes and awards received by our students include:
Selvedge Prize for Excellence in Knitwear
New Designers First Prize Award (two awards)
Bradford Textile Society prizes
Selection for Texprint
Selection for the Ratti Foundation (Milan)
Scholarship from The Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters
David Nieper student Scolarship
Selection for the ’John Lewis loves’ award
Participation in the “Making it” conference
Premiere Vision travel award
Woolmark award
You'll exhibit your work in the final year Degree Show - that provides you with the opportunity to showcase your work, as well as make vital industry contacts. There is also the opportunity to show your degree work in London, at the New Designers graduate show.
Facilities
All art and design courses are based at our Markeaton Street site where modern, purpose built studios and labs provide a modern creative space for our arts students. Markeaton Street encompasses Chandos Pole Street (home to our Fashion and Textiles courses) and Britannia Mill (home to Fine Arts). Students on any of our theatre related courses also get to study at Derby Theatre, and Dance students study at Deda.
Markeaton Street is a 15 minute walk from Kedleston Road, and is serviced by regular free site shuttle buses.
Our Textile Design student Katie Gilbert’s modern take on traditional Japanese clothing gained her international recognition and saw her work on show at exhibitions in Japan, France and Germany.
You’ve got to invest in the world, you’ve got to read, you’ve got to go to art galleries – Vivienne Westwood. This module will introduce you to the extensive textile industries and increase your understanding of the different sectors with a particular focus on textiles for fashion and textiles for interiors. You will look at the commonalities of practice, skills, materials and processes; but also look at the differences of processes, purposes and markets.
You will study the breadth of possibilities for employment within the textile trade. You will look at areas such as, colour industry, yarn industry, fibre and yarn development, fabric manufacture, buying, freelancing, branding, and social media.
You will consider the knowledge skills and experience you will need in order to develop a professional practice in particular sectors, and think about planning your personal development towards these requirements.
You will be introduced to the importance of global markets and industry responsibilities and the impact of the consumer society. You will undertake a range of research and development activities including visits.
Your experiences and findings will be gathered into a reflective portfolio which will serve as a foundation for your professional development throughout and beyond the programme.
“Creativity takes courage” Henri Matisse - This exciting and experimental first module introduces you to a range of hands on textile techniques. It encourages risk taking and creativity in a supportive environment through a range of workshops and projects. This module promotes an unpressured atmosphere of freedom to experiment, explore ideas and work towards divergent or ‘uncommon’ outcomes often required in the creative world.
You will rotate through a series of studio sessions in small groups and learn initial techniques, with time to develop at a personal level. You will be encouraged to review your work in group critiques exchanging ideas with your peer group and tutor.
You will investigate colour, pattern, texture and form and exploit materials and processes.The work you produce should be suitable for either fashion or interior markets. You will begin to recognise and develop your personal and professional skills and create an individual plan for further development. The expected outcome of this module is a range of experimental fabrics that encourage you to use your aesthetic judgement and be suitable for either fashion or interiors
As you build up a skill base, the work in this module will demand a questioning and analytical approach and will form a sound basis for future creative innovations. This process acts as a preparation for the development of your intended market focus.
‘You can find inspiration in everything. If you can’t, then you’re not looking properly.’ Paul Smith
- Drawing is the practice that underpins everything else in Textiles. It is a way of thinking and the means for doing. It is as exciting and versatile as you wish to make it. The skills taught in this module enrich design work, enabling you to begin to develop a personal style, independently and confidently.
Experience is gained through workshops in drawing, research, and digital outcomes. An understanding of design development and market awareness will help provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge that underpin design practice.
The module follows a stimulating 24-week programme of studio activities and workshops. It responds to external influences of films, exhibitions, trends and events, giving you a broader view of the many inspirational influences that contribute to design.
Regular progress checks and tutorials throughout the year ensure you are fully supported in your learning and development.
“So much of design is context” – Steve Madden - This module is intended to inform and support your ‘Design, Research and Inspiration’ module. You will be able to gather, select and reflect upon a range of inspirational textile topics from across space and time.
The module will make you aware of the significance of historical and contemporary practices and how they inform the development of your area of study.
Learning will take place through lectures, seminars, gallery visits and tutorials, resulting in academic assignments. This will help to develop your skills in researching, essay writing, intellectual discussion and visual analysis.
“Success today requires the agility and drive to constantly rethink, reinvigorate, react and reinvent.” - Bill Gates - This module aims to develop your understanding of the Textile Design profession, providing you with the opportunity to research and investigate your chosen direction. At this point you will be able to understand the differences between the two areas of fabric design for either fashion or interiors. It is a more focused approach to your professional ambitions.
You will be introduced to the skills needed to write professional CVs and cover letters and perfect your professional digital profile.
This module will also help you prepare for a year’s internship in industry should you wish to take an added qualification of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
‘Be Curious, pay attention, ask lots of questions’ Diane Von Furstenberg - This module sees you confirming your choice of specialism through a series of projects that prompt your imagination and stimulates creativity. It is at this point that you will determine whether your personal expression leads towards a focus on either fashion or interior projects.
Initially, live projects and working with the textile industry underpin this module. You will be encouraged to develop and refine your technical skills as appropriate to achieve increasingly professional outcomes. Entry to a national competition in the Spring semester gives the opportunity for peer evaluation at a national level.
A work placement or equivalent is an important part of this module and may result from your interaction with external contacts.
You will also be given the opportunity to work collaboratively with students from other programmes for example Fashion and Interior Design. This “Creative disruption” is a new initiative within the School of Art encouraging a diverse and dynamic learning experience, helping to foster studio culture and establish creative relationships between students.
You will become increasingly aware of your strengths, weaknesses and transferable skills and begin to define your personal identity. This will prepare you for writing your own design brief and formulising a body of design work that is totally independent and free from any commercial restraints. You will be encouraged to present this work in an exhibition type scenario at the end of the module.
You will develop your understanding of traditional methods and techniques and how to use digital processes to compliment these and explore beyond what might be achieved manually.
This module not only rehearses working to a brief set by either industry or a collaborative partner, but also working independently on your personal project. This encourages you to explore new ways of thinking and working that challenges your perceptions of both design restrictions and original design concepts.
“Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design is so simple, that's why it is so complicated.” Paul Rand - This module encourages you to work towards an individual and independent approach to your design projects. It follows a focussed 24 week programme of studio activities, workshops and tutorials.
You will experience sessions in methods of drawing, sketchbook work, printmaking, dye workshops and digital skills. These will encourage you to experiment and recognise your individual style. You will understand design development and how this relates specifically to Fashion and Interior markets. Your confidence will be established through the formation of a portfolio of personal research.
You are encouraged to take the initiative to expand your personal research from external sources and to begin to develop inspirational concepts.
In the regular progress tutorials and creative fora, you will become more resilient through constructive criticism and peer evaluation.
“To avoid criticism: say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” - Aristotle - This module allows you to study the ways that designers have contributed to intellectual life through writing and speaking about their work and that of others. The ‘voice’ of designers can be as significant as their practice and contributes to the lively debates and scholarship that makes up a dynamic and globalised culture of design.
Material Matters builds upon your exploration of influences at level 4 and encourages you to reflect upon your textile practice in relation to what matters to you in the wider world both as a designer and as a person. Topics discussed might include gender, sustainability, materials, architecture and landscapes, global and local cultures, branding and the changing status of textile design.
The module teaches a number of research and communication skills that allow you to become articulate in spoken and written assignments. You will develop an ability to find confidence in your own voice as a reflective, thoughtful and well-informed practitioner.
This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting. The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives students an opportunity to relate their academic knowledge to the work environment.
Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline.
During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.
The module provides a concentrated opportunity in which to focus on the academic and creative concerns of your development as an independent learner and creative operator in the textile industry.
With the support and guidance of personal tutor group seminars and related sessions linked to the module, you are required to select, plan, explore and experiment with work on your own textile practice-based project Your concept should have the potential for visual and creative development to extend and progress your personal direction and ways of working.
You will start the practical groundwork for your personally developed concept. It may be necessary to try new techniques pertinent to your idea and sample design prototypes which could be for either fashion or interiors. Live briefs and competitions may also be considered as appropriate.
You are encouraged to be ambitious and to try to push the boundaries of your chosen subject, whilst consolidating techniques and technologies already encountered. You are required to produce a portfolio of individual practical work responding to your chosen brief
The ability to efficiently plan and research play a major role in the effectiveness of the individual operating within the textile industry, as does a clear understanding of how to communicate your design concept and present it both visually and orally.
Visual research showing the origins of the concept should be apparent and an awareness of historical and /or contemporary sourcing
A portfolio of visual research material, including creative experimental work, sketchbook, design developments, fabric experimentation, identification of influences (both historical and contemporary), correspondence with potential sponsors, research boards etc. will be presented at the end of the module. You will also be required to present your proposal to a group of your peers and tutors.
The main focus of this module is the research, presentation and communication of the textile concept developed in your “Independent Study in Textiles” module. You will develop visual research that gives your work authority and informs your chosen concept. Design development and personal technical files will be intrinsic to this body of supporting work. You will also look at ways of illustrating your final design solution either by the photography, digital drape or other IT mechanisms.
A written statement of practice will clearly demonstrate your concept. An oral and visual presentation will showcase your ideas and intended outcomes and enable you to stake claim to your particular design idea. The presentation of your work in a professional context (static exhibition) will give you the chance to showcase individuality and personal style. This mechanism is good practice for future application as a designer.
Considerations may also be made to global issues such as ecological effects, sustainability and new technologies. The opportunity of negotiating sponsorship with a possible company should also be considered.
Throughout the module you will be supported by small studio work-checks, individual tutorials with appointed members of staff and larger peer group design seminars. Assessment is by a visual portfolio, exhibition and oral presentation of practical work (mid semester).
Industrial awareness gained during the course will be reflected upon and included in your personal development plan helping to inform your career direction. You will develop a professional on line Blog/C.V to showcase your portfolio and employability.
This module requires you to present a substantial body of work which expresses, and forms the basis of your professional potential. It should be a synthesis of ideas, skills and knowledge experienced in your chosen area of textile specialism. Your work could be in area of advanced textile technology, traditional craft techniques or a blend of the two approaches. Combinations of weave, print, knit and laser cutting processes could also be explored to create innovative substrates.
The body of work produced should evidence the influence of past or contemporary practitioners and an awareness of globalisation and / or issues of sustainability or responsible sourcing.
Through an approved, self motivated project you are encouraged to work with independence, initiative and confidence and further develop your abilities of research, critical analysis and self organisation.
This module enables you to express the assimilation of knowledge and insight gained throughout the programme and to identify and develop areas of personal commitment that define your direction.
The emphasis is on independent learning but throughout the module your work will be supported by individual tutorials with a personal tutor and larger peer group design seminars. Assessment is by submission of practical work in an exhibition setting and a portfolio of work.
Contextual Studies 3 concentrates on preparation and submission of an individual extended essay enabling you to achieve sophisticated research and discussion of a topic of your own choosing. Through negotiation with your tutor, you are able to focus on a topic that explores a particular aspect of fashion or textile design in depth and allows a well informed critique to develop.
Appropriate research and study skills are taught that encourage you to become a confident and independent learner.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Campus Tours
Campus Tours are a great way to explore our campuses, facilities and halls of residence. We’ll be running the tours in two-hour timeslots, giving you the best possible experience while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Delve deeper into the course with our Virtual Open Day, packed with subject and course information to help you make your choice, including tours of facilities, 360° views of award-winning accommodation plus advice and insight from students and academics.
You'll develop and realise your potential through a varied programme of studio-based projects, lectures, debates, competitions, live project work, group critiques, field visits, tutorials, technical demonstrations, written assignments, seminars and practical workshops.
A European professional and cultural fieldtrip is an integral part of the final year of study. Typically you will visit Premiere Vision, Paris, a global fabric trade fair.
How you are assessed
Assessment is mainly 100% coursework and is fully explained once you have enrolled on the programme through our intranet information system. There is both formative and summative assessment, the former taking place in the form of group crits.
Degree Show
Every year students from the School of Arts celebrate their time at University by showcasing their work at an end of year Degree Show at Markeaton Street and across the City of Derby. The Show usually runs throughout June and is a fantastic opportunity for potential employers, friends, family, industry and members of the public to see exciting creations by the next generation of artists, designers, creators and makers from Derby. The Show takes the form of:
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Access to HE Diploma 60 credits: 45 at level 3 with a minimum of Dist: 15 Merit: 24 Pass: 6
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
September 2021 typical entry requirements
Requirement
What we're looking for
UCAS points
112
Specific requirements at A-level
No specific subject requirements
Specific requirements at GCSE
GCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits, with 45 at Level 3
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
If you don’t have a place at uni, have had a change of heart about your course, or maybe your gap year plans are on hold – don’t worry. Call our Clearing hotline on 01332 592020 and explore your options.
This course will prepare you for an exciting career in printed, knitted or woven textiles working as a designer and also in a variety of roles such buyer, merchandiser, stylist or illustrator in a wide range of organisations associated with the international textile industry. Textiles is a global industry and offers you many opportunities to travel as part of your career.
Some graduates have gone on to work on a freelance basis in their chosen specialist field, establishing their own workshops, websites and companies. During your course you can take advantage of our mentoring schemes, which are designed to help young entrepreneurs to establish themselves. The University Careers department is particularly pro active in supporting students throughout the 3 years of study and guiding them into graduate employment.
We also provide support for graduates starting out in the creative industries, through our incubation unit - Banks Mill. It offers studio workspace and business development activities, in a vibrant and thriving community of artists, designers and makers.
Employable graduates – we’re ranked 15th highest amongst all UK universities and 12th for English institutions with 96% of graduates in work or further study within six months of completing their degree: HESA 2016.
Contact us
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
The information below is correct for entry in the academic year September 2020 - August 2021 only. Entry for future academic years may be subject to change.
Included in your fees
Unlimited access to specialist equipment in Textile studio and workshops
Access to related areas such as printmaking workshops and relevant fashion workshop areas
Additional access to wider University Arts’ facilities including equipment loan store and other facilities, such as digital print workshops
Yarns supplied for both Knit and Weave coursework
Print room processes - Screen making, dyes and pigments, fabric for 1st and 2nd year coursework
Paper for visual studies course work
Representation at a London Graduate Show
Participation in University Degree Show and the opportunity to participate in the Graduate Catwalk show with professional models and VIP Reception provided
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
Drawing equipment - cost subject to specialist area
Mimaki Digital fabric printing (£25 - £35 per metre)
Printing of artwork A2/A3 Portfolio (approx. £5- £50)
Specialist materials in support of Graduate show - cost subject to specialist area
Materials in support of other final year projects - cost subject to specialist area
Student promotion materials (approx. £70)
Optional costs not included in your fees
Optional additional field trips in UK (approx. £30)
Students are encouraged to attend the field trip to Paris for Premiere Vision (approx. £300 - includes entrance to Premiere Vision)
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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