COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Fashion Knitwear Design programme combines advanced creative practice, technical innovation, and critical research to prepare students for professional careers within the contemporary fashion and knitwear industry. The central component of the course is the Innovation in Fashion Knitwear Practice module, where students develop and realise a substantial independent project aligned with their personal interests and future career ambitions. Working closely with a specialist supervisor, students undertake extensive research and creative experimentation to produce a distinctive body of work that demonstrates innovative approaches to knitwear fabric and garment design. The module encourages the development of original concepts, advanced three-dimensional design thinking, and technically accomplished outcomes that communicate a unique creative vision while responding to professional and industry contexts. Whether students aim to pursue employment, establish their own business, engage in advanced research, or continue to doctoral study, the project can be tailored to support those goals. The Situating Your Practice module provides a foundation for specialist development by introducing students to the department’s resources, workshops, and technologies relevant to knitwear design. Students receive training in industry-standard CAD knitwear software, including Shima and Stoll systems, while also having opportunities to broaden their skills through additional workshops and practical experimentation. Through critical reflection and discussion, students examine their design practice, consider issues of audience engagement and design responsibility, and develop a proposal for their major project. The Culture and Collaboration module expands students’ understanding of the wider cultural and social context of contemporary design. Working collaboratively with students from other art and design disciplines, participants investigate themes relevant to current debates in creative practice and contribute to a collective festival of ideas. This interdisciplinary experience develops advanced research, analytical, communication, presentation, and teamwork skills while encouraging new perspectives on individual practice. Optional modules such as Professional Futures and Advancing Research Design provide opportunities to strengthen career planning and research capabilities. Overall, the programme combines traditional knitwear craftsmanship, digital technologies, critical inquiry, and innovative design practice, preparing graduates for careers in knitwear design, fashion development, creative entrepreneurship, consultancy, research, and further academic study.