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Always wanted to know how to create a fashion magazine, turn your social media skills into an exciting career, plan a fashion show or predict consumer and lifestyle trends?

The BA (Hons) Fashion Communication course at Northumbria offers you the opportunity to explore the communication of fashion through images, experiences, film and the written word.Art and Design History Practice and Theory 4th UK

 

Addressing the visual, practical, intellectual and cultural demands of an ever-changing society and dynamic fashion audience, you’ll work on real-life creative briefs, giving you practical experience within an industry context.

Options for year-long work placements and study abroad will build your professional and entrepreneurial skills. Previous students have won prestigious national and international design and enterprise awards.

You will gain a broad range of skills to prepare you for a career in the dynamic industries that promote fashion from a course that boasts an impressive graduate recruitment rate.

Northumbria University is ranked 11th in Design & Crafts in the UK (Guardian University League Tables 2022). 

For more information in relation to studying Fashion Communication BA (Hons) contact Northumbria University today on 0191 4060901 or register for Fashion Communication updates.

See other similar courses you may be interested in: BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Marketing

Always wanted to know how to create a fashion magazine, turn your social media skills into an exciting career, plan a fashion show or predict consumer and lifestyle trends?

The BA (Hons) Fashion Communication course at Northumbria offers you the opportunity to explore the communication of fashion through images, experiences, film and the written word.Art and Design History Practice and Theory 4th UK

 

Addressing the visual, practical, intellectual and cultural demands of an ever-changing society and dynamic fashion audience, you’ll work on real-life creative briefs, giving you practical experience within an industry context.

Options for year-long work placements and study abroad will build your professional and entrepreneurial skills. Previous students have won prestigious national and international design and enterprise awards.

You will gain a broad range of skills to prepare you for a career in the dynamic industries that promote fashion from a course that boasts an impressive graduate recruitment rate.

Northumbria University is ranked 11th in Design & Crafts in the UK (Guardian University League Tables 2022). 

For more information in relation to studying Fashion Communication BA (Hons) contact Northumbria University today on 0191 4060901 or register for Fashion Communication updates.

See other similar courses you may be interested in: BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Marketing

Course Information

UCAS Code
WP29

Level of Study
Undergraduate

Mode of Study
3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department
Northumbria School of Design

Location
City Campus, Northumbria University

City
Newcastle

Start
September 2022 or September 2023

Fee Information

Module Information

Fashion Communication BA (Hons) / Creative Presentation Guide

We would love to see examples of your work, but we are also interested in who you are, who and what inspires you, and why you are excited to study Fashion Communication

Discover NU World / A virtual journey through everything Northumbria has to offer.

Explore our immersive 360 tours, informative subject videos, inspirational student profiles, ground-breaking research, and a range of life at university videos and articles.

Degree Shows / Graduate Portfolio Showcase

During your studies you may be offered the chance to showcase your work at Graduate Fashion Week in London. Showing at Graduate Fashion Week is a great opportunity to network with potential employers.

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Instagram / Fashion Communication

Follow our Instagram page and keep up to date with everything that is going on with Fashion Communication at Northumbria.

Book an Open Day / Experience Fashion Communication BA (Hons)

Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Fashion Communication. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.

Entry Requirements Entry Requirements Modules Overview Fees, Funding  and Scholarships How to Apply Apply Now

Entry Requirements 2022/23

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

A portfolio of creative design work is required. Get advice on preparing your portfolio here: www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/coming-to-northumbria/portfolios-and-auditions

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

For further admissions guidance and requirements, please visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/admissionsguidance Please review this information before submitting your application.

Entry Requirements 2023/24

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

A portfolio of creative design work is required. Get advice on preparing your portfolio here: www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/coming-to-northumbria/portfolios-and-auditions

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

For further admissions guidance and requirements, please visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/admissionsguidance Please review this information before submitting your application.

Fees and Funding 2022/23 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1: £9,250

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.


EU Fee in Year 1: £16,500

International Fee in Year 1: £16,500

 

Click here for UK, EU and International scholarship, fees, and funding information.

ADDITIONAL COSTS

This is a studio-based course and you will incur additional costs for art and design material. You will be provided with an A4 sketchpad, drawing pens, a steel ruler, craft knife and cutting mat when you arrive, but may need to replace some or all of these annually (approx £20-30). In terms of technology, you will be provided with an Adobe Creative Suite licence for use at university and at home. While we have some laptops available to borrow at university, as well as desktops in our Digital Commons areas, most students find it useful to have their own Mac or PC laptop capable of running Adobe Creative Suite.

Fees and Funding 2023/24 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1*: £9,250

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.

The above fee is indicative for 23/24 entry.


EU Fee in Year 1: **TBC

** 23/24 EU and International fees have not yet been announced and will be updated once confirmed.



International Fee in Year 1: TBC

23/24 EU and International fees have not yet been announced and will be updated once confirmed.




Scholarships for 23/24 have not yet been announced.  For information on scholarships awarded in 22/23, please see the main Funding Pages.


ADDITIONAL COSTS

TBC

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

How to Apply

Please use the Apply Now button at the top of this page to submit your application.

Certain applications may need to be submitted via an external application system, such as UCAS, Lawcabs or DfE Apply.

The Apply Now button will redirect you to the relevant website if this is the case.

You can find further application advice, such as what to include in your application and what happens after you apply, on our Admissions Hub Admissions | Northumbria University



Modules Overview 2022/23

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four

Year one

FA4010 -

Fashion Journalism and Photography (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the role of the fashion journalist and image-maker, and the social, cultural, ethical and commercial context in which they work. You will explore the changing nature of fashion and how it is communicated through print and digital media. In a lecture and seminar series, you will explore the fashion industry’s relationship with the media, and the opportunities and constraints faced by journalists and image-makers working in fashion.

This will inform your own editorial practice, and in practical sessions you will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills associated with media communication, including feature writing, styling and magazine design. You will undertake research into contemporary photographic and creative visuals in order to create imagery to complement and enhance the textual elements of your work. The work of designers, stylists and art directors will be considered and become your informed and creative visual vocabulary. Print and digital visuals will be examined and you will start to develop your visual handwriting as a fashion image-maker.

You will compile a portfolio of practical work, which will include written articles, magazine spreads and photographic tasks. Your portfolio will be supported by a research file and reflective analysis, where you will discuss the ethical and industry context of your work. Industry briefs, guest speakers and the opportunity to take part in national competitions allow you to work with input from industry partners where possible.

More information

FA4011 -

Film and Fashion Space (Core,20 Credits)

This module explores how fashion space – such as installations, exhibitions and conceptual visual merchandising - can be utilised to tell stories about fashion.

You will consider how objects can be presented in order to create a critical narrative within a space, looking at contemporary fashion installations, presentations and performances, and early influential fashion displays to provide historical context. As an evolving visual medium, fashion has in recent years has explored intersections of display combining digital formats, fashion film and fashion installation.

Film is the fastest growing area of visual representation in fashion, providing an opportunity to creatively communicate aesthetics, ideas, and concepts to audiences - layering commercial, cultural, and even political meaning, online and in immersive environments. This module strand introduces you to the contemporary fashion film as an emerging genre in its own right as part of the growing fashion media landscape, the technical skills needed to produce your own and insights into the social, cultural, ethical and commercial context in which they exist.

This module will allow you to explore the potential for film and fashion space, incorporating installations, presentations, visual merchandising, brand activations, events and shows. Drawing from primary and secondary research, you will build on your skills in conceptual development, learning how to devise and develop new solutions for fashion space.

More information

FA4012 -

Introduction to Fashion Communication (Core,40 Credits)

This practical and theoretical module introduces the study of fashion communication. You will be introduced to the teaching processes and learning environment of the School of Design and Northumbria University, and gain an understanding of the critical and cultural role of fashion within the wider communication and media industries, beginning to locate your own practice in these evolving contexts.

In a visual research strand, you will explore the holistic process of gathering, generating, collating and presentation of visual and textual research in fashion. You will use appropriate methods to locate relevant sources of research and apply personal judgement in assessing, interpreting and presenting the findings.

In a theory-based strand, you will study the history of fashion from the early 20th Century, exploring the cyclical nature of fashion and the disparate influences that are the catalyst for significant change. You will learn how to research, plan, structure and reference an essay.

Finally, in a professional practice strand, you will learn about the social, economic and cultural factors which impact on the creative industries. You will develop your subject knowledge, with an overview of the range of roles, tasks and creative responsibilities within the field of fashion.

Core skills and understanding developed on this module will provide a foundation to your learning throughout the year and programme, and the introduction of professional practice awareness will lay the groundwork for your future career aims and ambitions.

More information

FA4013 -

PR, Social and Brand (Core,40 Credits)

This module teaches you the fundamentals of public relations (PR), an area of fashion communication that supports the promotion, reach and impact of brands, individuals, issues and cultural stakeholders. The main aim of the module is to support you in understanding what PR is, where to find it, what agencies and in-house PRs do, and what multi-channel activities are conceived, implemented and activated in this area of industry. Through a series of seminars and practical sessions, you will be shown case-studies of how fashion is promoted through public, promotional and commercial endeavours, and introduced to basic research and analysis tools that help you to ascertain the value, function and role of PR in fashion. You will learn core formal and tacit communication skills of a public relations practitioner in industry, such as how to create social content, promotional planning, how to influence and pitch, and be given opportunities to converse in public and pitch your work so that you develop a confident presentation style that is a step towards client-facing skills.

The essay will help you in taking an iterative approach to research, asking you to source, identify and review key literature, content and material in response to a given question/title. This research will underpin your argument and provide a solid basis for an original response as a critical fashion researcher. You will learn academic writing skills, the conventions of how to plan and construct an academic essay with clear referencing and how to argue a case in writing, all connected to the fascinating area of branding.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

AD5007 -

Design Study Abroad (60 credit) (Optional,60 Credits)

The Study Abroad module is a semester based 60 credit module which is available on degree courses which facilitate study abroad within the programme. You will undertake a semester abroad at a partner university equivalent to 60 UK credits. This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be constructed to meet the learning outcomes for the programme for the semester in question, dependent on suitable modules from the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). The module will be assessed by conversion of graded marks from the host University.

Learning outcomes on the year-long modules on which the student is unable to attend the home institution must be met at the host institution, and marks from the host are incorporated into the modules as part of the overall assessment.

More information

FA5018 -

Fashion Insight and Innovation (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will explore how current and future consumer trends shape new fashion and lifestyle concepts. Looking at cultural and sociological trends, brand experience theory and practice, you will gain an understanding of the shifting fashion and lifestyle landscapes, working to identify possible future scenarios and propose creative solutions. Live project briefs with industry partners such as LS:N Global and Trend Bible develop your professional skills and understanding where possible.

You will independently gather and evaluate primary and secondary research to help you further understand audiences and markets and inform strategy and direction. Students work collaboratively and individually, using creative thought processes and enquiry-based learning to initiate and develop dynamic written assignments and visual trend reports.

Students will gain experience in the translation of research into a creative Trend Portfolio that is visually communicated through appropriate digital or experimental media. Exploration of image-making techniques and theories, and the application of Semiotic theory, encourage you to interrogate images and consider how meanings are made through visual communication. Sessions on Trend writing develop your skills in writing for specific audiences. You will continue to develop your visual, verbal and written communication skills through project submissions appropriate to a professional Fashion Communication context.

More information

FA5019 -

Fashion Editorial (Core,20 Credits)

This module provides analysis of current and experimental practices and developments in the contemporary fashion editorial landscape covering the areas of multimedia journalism, visual graphics, photography, layout and online publishing formats and tools.

You will explore current contextual issues, appraise editorial trends and review and debate critical content aimed at specific readerships, engaging with appropriate fashion communication theories within global, historical, contemporary and cultural contexts, demonstrating an ability to locate and add purpose to your practice. You will also analyse industry applications, principles, formats and techniques within physical and digital communications.

Through this you will develop your understanding of a specific subject within the fashion industry and apply your research, critical analysis, writing and creative skills to create impactful fashion editorial outputs aimed at a defined audience.

More information

FA5020 -

PR and Media (Core,40 Credits)

This module further develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of media, public relations and fashion communication in a contemporary social, cultural, political, economic and technological context. You will develop your experience in market and demographic research, analysis, strategic thinking, concept generation, tactical planning, editorial content creation and film realisation. You will ultimately produce an opti-channel campaign that strategically aims to enhance the positive and authentic relationship between brands, products and consumers. Through the combination of practical, strategic and design thinking, you will design, produce and present critical and original fashion communication outputs that are directly in line with industry practice and will support you in a holistic approach in your step to becoming a competent promoter of fashion, creator of fashion content and communicator of key messages for audiences.

More information

FA5021 -

Professional and Contextual Studies (Core,20 Credits)

Fashion is a global business and the study of fashion communication means understanding how the world works. This module fosters a deeper appreciation of professional contexts, principles and roles to help you locate your own practice, and further develops your knowledge and understanding of the social, cultural, ethical and political issues relating to the fashion industry. During this module you will be expected to manage your own learning and build on existing skills and knowledge in a professional context.

In the professional practice strand of the module, you will look at different areas in the fashion and creative industries, and investigate the diverse range of career paths and professional opportunities that their area of study can lead to. You will gain insights into critical issues, innovations and challenges through a series of visiting lectures from industry practitioners, placement students and course alumni.

With the support of the university’s dedicated Placements and Internships team, you will be given guidance on whether to take a sandwich year and help in researching and applying for a placement. You will also learn how to develop your personal brand through social media, a portfolio website and a CV, and how to showcase your fashion communication outputs in a way that resonates with industry.

In the theory-based strand of the module, meanwhile, a cultural and media studies lecture programme with guided reading will help you to research independently and evaluate your own practice and critical understanding of the fashion field.

Through the combination of practical, strategic and design thinking and academic and creative outputs, this module will support you in a holistic approach in your step to becoming a competent communicator and theorist of fashion.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year abroad at a partner university equivalent to 120 UK credits This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
HR9505 Managing People at Work (20 credits)
SM9511 Global Business Environment (20 credits)
AF5022 Financial Decision Making (20 credits)

Semester 2
AT5000 Digital Business (20)
AT5001 Group Business Consultancy Project (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Please note, in line with the continuous improvement process for all Northumbria University programmes the International Year in Business is currently under review.

More information

AT5007 -

Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation (4 modules studied in Amsterdam (Semester 1) & Newcastle (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

What will I learn on this module?

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation which is made up of 4 modules that the students will study in Amsterdam (semester 1) and Newcastle (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ creative thinking and practical problem-solving skills in the context of design thinking approaches, all of which will significantly development academic and research skills and so strengthen employability on graduation. This year of study enhances your employability by unlocking and developing your creative problem-solving skills, knowledge, and expertise to make you more employment and industry-ready when you graduate through in multidisciplinary teams throughout your year of study in Amsterdam and Newcastle to creatively tackle and solve real-world challenges.
Semester 1 in Amsterdam comprises of two 20-credit modules aimed at students new to design thinking which also equips them for a semester in Newcastle, working in creative teams on a series of real-world projects that enhance creative thinking skills and attributes and multidisciplinary working practices. The modules studied in Semester 1, Innovative Design Practices and Tools and Multidisciplinary Exploration and Value Creation provide students with analytical design-inspired tools that enable students to examine real-world case studies that require multidisciplinary professional team-based responses and solution formation and implementation. In Semester 2, students will move to Newcastle to study two modules at Northumbria University. The first module, Design-Inspired Research Methods enables students to critically investigate key social, cultural, and technological challenges that modern urban spaces, cities, and professions. The final module, Creative Cities, enables students to engage in the creative comparative research of problems, challenges and potential innovative developments between Amsterdam and Newcastle (in terms of mobility, sustainable practices, energy provision, smart and digital technologies, urban design, or the role of cultural and humanities-oriented institutions).

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
AT5005 Innovative Design Practices and Tools (20 credits)
AT5006 Multidisciplinary Exploration and Value Creation (40 credits)

Semester 2
DE5012 Design-Inspired Research Methods (20 credits)
DE5013 Creative Cities (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in a creative environment in the Amsterdam campus dedicated to full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place in sessions and workshops that bring together AUAS and Northumbria students and staff. The focus of the teaching and learning is on creative interdisciplinary team activities that develop creative thinking and address real-world issues and problems. In semester 2, students engage in comparative city-based research to identify differing challenges facing Amsterdam and Newcastle. Students will approach a range of real-world issues from the perspective of their academic discipline and work with students from other perspectives to see how differing knowledges and skillsets can combine to address challenges in innovative and creative ways. These can include cultural institutions, design, technology, IT, and engineering, architecture, history, and the social sciences. Therefore, the programme is relevant for students from a range academic disciplines who will work together to stress how differing disciplines combine to provide solutions to challenges. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

More information

Year four

FA6013 -

Critical Research Project (Core,20 Credits)

The module gives you the opportunity to identify, investigate and plan a self-determined, critical research project, culminating in a 5000-word written report.

With consideration of the key issues that will inform and shape the fashion industry in years to come, you will identify and propose a challenging Fashion Communication research project that is a mature, realistic response to the contemporary design world. You will demonstrate a contextual understanding of personal practice in relation to broader cultural socio-economic and political contexts.

Establishing a relevant field and question that relates to the wider fashion industry, you will undertake in-depth research using primary and secondary methodologies to inform a written research report that evidences your critical and cultural subject awareness. You will display evidence of critical thinking in the development of arguments, analysis and debate, expressed through oral and written communication.

Your research topic may reflect your career goals and ambitions, and will be agreed through regular supervision, formative critiques and presentations, personal project plans and peer discussions.

More information

FA6014 -

Industry & Competition Briefs (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will continue to build a diverse portfolio of contemporary work that demonstrates your capabilities as a professional fashion communicator. You will be encouraged and supported to further develop your own individual style in order to support your professional and creative practice by incorporating elements of digital media, graphics, photographic, written, social and film media.

You are required to show evidence of critical thinking in the development of your own specialist practice, making use of the visual and written skills accumulated throughout the programme in a series of creative self-directed projects.

You will continue to develop content for a comprehensive, relevant and dynamic exit portfolio of work that presents your skills and abilities to a potential employer, highlighting employability and flexibility through your individual project outcomes. Your in-depth research skills will translate into polished final outputs, equipping you with industry-standard knowledge of contemporary practice, technological insight and a professional and employable skill set.

Research and investigation of current practice is at the core of the module. Your work will reflect current contemporary practice in Fashion Communication while taking an approach of curiosity, creativity and experimentation, showing understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the fashion communicator through the use of still and moving image, styling and creative writing.

Engagement with live projects set by industry and competitions such as D&AD Arts Thread and Creative Conscience will be undertaken in order to further develop your professional portfolio and enhance employability. These additions to your portfolio will show your work to be relevant to the needs of industry and your context as an emerging design and communications practitioner.

More information

FA6015 -

Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

The module gives you the opportunity to research, conceptualise and realise a self-determined Fashion Communication project, building on the skills, knowledge and understanding that you have gathered throughout the programme.

You will undertake in-depth research on a subject area of your own choosing, collating evidence of critical and cultural subject awareness. This research will culminate in the development of an original and creative Fashion Communication project that answers an identified need and is supported by thorough promotional, strategic and logistical planning.

Semester one focuses on research and concept development. You will investigate contemporary practice, and realise self-directed creative outputs, taking an approach of curiosity, creativity and experimentation. You will develop and demonstrate your capabilities as a professional fashion communicator through the use of still and moving image, graphic layout, typography, art direction, styling and creative writing.

This lays the foundation for semester two when you will develop and realise final major project outcomes determined by your career goals and ambitions, and agreed through regular supervision, formative critiques and presentations and personal project plans. Semester Two projects will be situated in a commercial context, underpinned by strategic and promotional planning that would support the launch of your concept. You are encouraged to demonstrate an independent, experimental and open-minded approach, while considering the requirements of your chosen target audience. Outcomes could include a combination of films, publications, digital platforms, experience designs, PR campaign documents, exhibitions, brand strategies or a combination of the above. They can be a development of your work in Semester One or take a new direction, and they will evidence your acquisition of sophisticated subject knowledge and understanding. You will be expected to defend your work and its relevance through critical self-evaluation addressing your own performance and opportunities for further development.

Consideration of criteria and preparation for national awards allow you to gain recognition and develop your professional skills and understanding. You will be encouraged to develop your own live project briefs where appropriate, through negotiation with industry partners.

More information

FA6016 -

Professional Practice and Portfolio (Core,20 Credits)

This Professional Practice and Portfolio module allows you the opportunity to frame your learning in an industry context. With employability at its core, this module provides career workshops focusing on developing an effective CV application and covering letter in response to advertised industry opportunities. Tutorials, seminars with guest speakers and self-branding sessions will help you practice your interview and networking techniques and develop an understanding of personal branding, self-promotion and professional practice necessary for an aspiring Fashion Communication graduate.

A written ‘Location of Practice’ reflective statement will place your work and skills in a professional context and outline your ongoing career aims and ambitions, informing you of the direction, environment and competencies required to effectively exploit and move on available opportunities. Professional planning will map in a business-like fashion your critical steps into your next stage, whether further academic study, industry position or establishing your own business, and you will produce a portfolio website and self-branding materials in line with your ambitions.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Modules Overview 2023/24

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four

Year one

FA4010 -

Fashion Journalism and Photography (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the role of the fashion journalist and image-maker, and the social, cultural, ethical and commercial context in which they work. You will explore the changing nature of fashion and how it is communicated through print and digital media. In a lecture and seminar series, you will explore the fashion industry’s relationship with the media, and the opportunities and constraints faced by journalists and image-makers working in fashion.

This will inform your own editorial practice, and in practical sessions you will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills associated with media communication, including feature writing, styling and magazine design. You will undertake research into contemporary photographic and creative visuals in order to create imagery to complement and enhance the textual elements of your work. The work of designers, stylists and art directors will be considered and become your informed and creative visual vocabulary. Print and digital visuals will be examined and you will start to develop your visual handwriting as a fashion image-maker.

You will compile a portfolio of practical work, which will include written articles, magazine spreads and photographic tasks. Your portfolio will be supported by a research file and reflective analysis, where you will discuss the ethical and industry context of your work. Industry briefs, guest speakers and the opportunity to take part in national competitions allow you to work with input from industry partners where possible.

More information

FA4011 -

Film and Fashion Space (Core,20 Credits)

This module explores how fashion space – such as installations, exhibitions and conceptual visual merchandising - can be utilised to tell stories about fashion.

You will consider how objects can be presented in order to create a critical narrative within a space, looking at contemporary fashion installations, presentations and performances, and early influential fashion displays to provide historical context. As an evolving visual medium, fashion has in recent years has explored intersections of display combining digital formats, fashion film and fashion installation.

Film is the fastest growing area of visual representation in fashion, providing an opportunity to creatively communicate aesthetics, ideas, and concepts to audiences - layering commercial, cultural, and even political meaning, online and in immersive environments. This module strand introduces you to the contemporary fashion film as an emerging genre in its own right as part of the growing fashion media landscape, the technical skills needed to produce your own and insights into the social, cultural, ethical and commercial context in which they exist.

This module will allow you to explore the potential for film and fashion space, incorporating installations, presentations, visual merchandising, brand activations, events and shows. Drawing from primary and secondary research, you will build on your skills in conceptual development, learning how to devise and develop new solutions for fashion space.

More information

FA4012 -

Introduction to Fashion Communication (Core,40 Credits)

This practical and theoretical module introduces the study of fashion communication. You will be introduced to the teaching processes and learning environment of the School of Design and Northumbria University, and gain an understanding of the critical and cultural role of fashion within the wider communication and media industries, beginning to locate your own practice in these evolving contexts.

In a visual research strand, you will explore the holistic process of gathering, generating, collating and presentation of visual and textual research in fashion. You will use appropriate methods to locate relevant sources of research and apply personal judgement in assessing, interpreting and presenting the findings.

In a theory-based strand, you will study the history of fashion from the early 20th Century, exploring the cyclical nature of fashion and the disparate influences that are the catalyst for significant change. You will learn how to research, plan, structure and reference an essay.

Finally, in a professional practice strand, you will learn about the social, economic and cultural factors which impact on the creative industries. You will develop your subject knowledge, with an overview of the range of roles, tasks and creative responsibilities within the field of fashion.

Core skills and understanding developed on this module will provide a foundation to your learning throughout the year and programme, and the introduction of professional practice awareness will lay the groundwork for your future career aims and ambitions.

More information

FA4013 -

PR, Social and Brand (Core,40 Credits)

This module teaches you the fundamentals of public relations (PR), an area of fashion communication that supports the promotion, reach and impact of brands, individuals, issues and cultural stakeholders. The main aim of the module is to support you in understanding what PR is, where to find it, what agencies and in-house PRs do, and what multi-channel activities are conceived, implemented and activated in this area of industry. Through a series of seminars and practical sessions, you will be shown case-studies of how fashion is promoted through public, promotional and commercial endeavours, and introduced to basic research and analysis tools that help you to ascertain the value, function and role of PR in fashion. You will learn core formal and tacit communication skills of a public relations practitioner in industry, such as how to create social content, promotional planning, how to influence and pitch, and be given opportunities to converse in public and pitch your work so that you develop a confident presentation style that is a step towards client-facing skills.

The essay will help you in taking an iterative approach to research, asking you to source, identify and review key literature, content and material in response to a given question/title. This research will underpin your argument and provide a solid basis for an original response as a critical fashion researcher. You will learn academic writing skills, the conventions of how to plan and construct an academic essay with clear referencing and how to argue a case in writing, all connected to the fascinating area of branding.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

AD5007 -

Design Study Abroad (60 credit) (Optional,60 Credits)

The Study Abroad module is a semester based 60 credit module which is available on degree courses which facilitate study abroad within the programme. You will undertake a semester abroad at a partner university equivalent to 60 UK credits. This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be constructed to meet the learning outcomes for the programme for the semester in question, dependent on suitable modules from the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). The module will be assessed by conversion of graded marks from the host University.

Learning outcomes on the year-long modules on which the student is unable to attend the home institution must be met at the host institution, and marks from the host are incorporated into the modules as part of the overall assessment.

More information

FA5018 -

Fashion Insight and Innovation (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will explore how current and future consumer trends shape new fashion and lifestyle concepts. Looking at cultural and sociological trends, brand experience theory and practice, you will gain an understanding of the shifting fashion and lifestyle landscapes, working to identify possible future scenarios and propose creative solutions. Live project briefs with industry partners such as LS:N Global and Trend Bible develop your professional skills and understanding where possible.

You will independently gather and evaluate primary and secondary research to help you further understand audiences and markets and inform strategy and direction. Students work collaboratively and individually, using creative thought processes and enquiry-based learning to initiate and develop dynamic written assignments and visual trend reports.

Students will gain experience in the translation of research into a creative Trend Portfolio that is visually communicated through appropriate digital or experimental media. Exploration of image-making techniques and theories, and the application of Semiotic theory, encourage you to interrogate images and consider how meanings are made through visual communication. Sessions on Trend writing develop your skills in writing for specific audiences. You will continue to develop your visual, verbal and written communication skills through project submissions appropriate to a professional Fashion Communication context.

More information

FA5019 -

Fashion Editorial (Core,20 Credits)

This module provides analysis of current and experimental practices and developments in the contemporary fashion editorial landscape covering the areas of multimedia journalism, visual graphics, photography, layout and online publishing formats and tools.

You will explore current contextual issues, appraise editorial trends and review and debate critical content aimed at specific readerships, engaging with appropriate fashion communication theories within global, historical, contemporary and cultural contexts, demonstrating an ability to locate and add purpose to your practice. You will also analyse industry applications, principles, formats and techniques within physical and digital communications.

Through this you will develop your understanding of a specific subject within the fashion industry and apply your research, critical analysis, writing and creative skills to create impactful fashion editorial outputs aimed at a defined audience.

More information

FA5020 -

PR and Media (Core,40 Credits)

This module further develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of media, public relations and fashion communication in a contemporary social, cultural, political, economic and technological context. You will develop your experience in market and demographic research, analysis, strategic thinking, concept generation, tactical planning, editorial content creation and film realisation. You will ultimately produce an opti-channel campaign that strategically aims to enhance the positive and authentic relationship between brands, products and consumers. Through the combination of practical, strategic and design thinking, you will design, produce and present critical and original fashion communication outputs that are directly in line with industry practice and will support you in a holistic approach in your step to becoming a competent promoter of fashion, creator of fashion content and communicator of key messages for audiences.

More information

FA5021 -

Professional and Contextual Studies (Core,20 Credits)

Fashion is a global business and the study of fashion communication means understanding how the world works. This module fosters a deeper appreciation of professional contexts, principles and roles to help you locate your own practice, and further develops your knowledge and understanding of the social, cultural, ethical and political issues relating to the fashion industry. During this module you will be expected to manage your own learning and build on existing skills and knowledge in a professional context.

In the professional practice strand of the module, you will look at different areas in the fashion and creative industries, and investigate the diverse range of career paths and professional opportunities that their area of study can lead to. You will gain insights into critical issues, innovations and challenges through a series of visiting lectures from industry practitioners, placement students and course alumni.

With the support of the university’s dedicated Placements and Internships team, you will be given guidance on whether to take a sandwich year and help in researching and applying for a placement. You will also learn how to develop your personal brand through social media, a portfolio website and a CV, and how to showcase your fashion communication outputs in a way that resonates with industry.

In the theory-based strand of the module, meanwhile, a cultural and media studies lecture programme with guided reading will help you to research independently and evaluate your own practice and critical understanding of the fashion field.

Through the combination of practical, strategic and design thinking and academic and creative outputs, this module will support you in a holistic approach in your step to becoming a competent communicator and theorist of fashion.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year abroad at a partner university equivalent to 120 UK credits This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
HR9505 Managing People at Work (20 credits)
SM9511 Global Business Environment (20 credits)
AF5022 Financial Decision Making (20 credits)

Semester 2
AT5000 Digital Business (20)
AT5001 Group Business Consultancy Project (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Please note, in line with the continuous improvement process for all Northumbria University programmes the International Year in Business is currently under review.

More information

AT5007 -

Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation (4 modules studied in Amsterdam (Semester 1) & Newcastle (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

What will I learn on this module?

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation which is made up of 4 modules that the students will study in Amsterdam (semester 1) and Newcastle (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ creative thinking and practical problem-solving skills in the context of design thinking approaches, all of which will significantly development academic and research skills and so strengthen employability on graduation. This year of study enhances your employability by unlocking and developing your creative problem-solving skills, knowledge, and expertise to make you more employment and industry-ready when you graduate through in multidisciplinary teams throughout your year of study in Amsterdam and Newcastle to creatively tackle and solve real-world challenges.
Semester 1 in Amsterdam comprises of two 20-credit modules aimed at students new to design thinking which also equips them for a semester in Newcastle, working in creative teams on a series of real-world projects that enhance creative thinking skills and attributes and multidisciplinary working practices. The modules studied in Semester 1, Innovative Design Practices and Tools and Multidisciplinary Exploration and Value Creation provide students with analytical design-inspired tools that enable students to examine real-world case studies that require multidisciplinary professional team-based responses and solution formation and implementation. In Semester 2, students will move to Newcastle to study two modules at Northumbria University. The first module, Design-Inspired Research Methods enables students to critically investigate key social, cultural, and technological challenges that modern urban spaces, cities, and professions. The final module, Creative Cities, enables students to engage in the creative comparative research of problems, challenges and potential innovative developments between Amsterdam and Newcastle (in terms of mobility, sustainable practices, energy provision, smart and digital technologies, urban design, or the role of cultural and humanities-oriented institutions).

The modules are outlined below:

Semester 1
AT5005 Innovative Design Practices and Tools (20 credits)
AT5006 Multidisciplinary Exploration and Value Creation (40 credits)

Semester 2
DE5012 Design-Inspired Research Methods (20 credits)
DE5013 Creative Cities (40 credits)

In semester 1, students will learn in a creative environment in the Amsterdam campus dedicated to full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place in sessions and workshops that bring together AUAS and Northumbria students and staff. The focus of the teaching and learning is on creative interdisciplinary team activities that develop creative thinking and address real-world issues and problems. In semester 2, students engage in comparative city-based research to identify differing challenges facing Amsterdam and Newcastle. Students will approach a range of real-world issues from the perspective of their academic discipline and work with students from other perspectives to see how differing knowledges and skillsets can combine to address challenges in innovative and creative ways. These can include cultural institutions, design, technology, IT, and engineering, architecture, history, and the social sciences. Therefore, the programme is relevant for students from a range academic disciplines who will work together to stress how differing disciplines combine to provide solutions to challenges. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

More information

Year four

FA6013 -

Critical Research Project (Core,20 Credits)

The module gives you the opportunity to identify, investigate and plan a self-determined, critical research project, culminating in a 5000-word written report.

With consideration of the key issues that will inform and shape the fashion industry in years to come, you will identify and propose a challenging Fashion Communication research project that is a mature, realistic response to the contemporary design world. You will demonstrate a contextual understanding of personal practice in relation to broader cultural socio-economic and political contexts.

Establishing a relevant field and question that relates to the wider fashion industry, you will undertake in-depth research using primary and secondary methodologies to inform a written research report that evidences your critical and cultural subject awareness. You will display evidence of critical thinking in the development of arguments, analysis and debate, expressed through oral and written communication.

Your research topic may reflect your career goals and ambitions, and will be agreed through regular supervision, formative critiques and presentations, personal project plans and peer discussions.

More information

FA6014 -

Industry & Competition Briefs (Core,20 Credits)

In this module you will continue to build a diverse portfolio of contemporary work that demonstrates your capabilities as a professional fashion communicator. You will be encouraged and supported to further develop your own individual style in order to support your professional and creative practice by incorporating elements of digital media, graphics, photographic, written, social and film media.

You are required to show evidence of critical thinking in the development of your own specialist practice, making use of the visual and written skills accumulated throughout the programme in a series of creative self-directed projects.

You will continue to develop content for a comprehensive, relevant and dynamic exit portfolio of work that presents your skills and abilities to a potential employer, highlighting employability and flexibility through your individual project outcomes. Your in-depth research skills will translate into polished final outputs, equipping you with industry-standard knowledge of contemporary practice, technological insight and a professional and employable skill set.

Research and investigation of current practice is at the core of the module. Your work will reflect current contemporary practice in Fashion Communication while taking an approach of curiosity, creativity and experimentation, showing understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the fashion communicator through the use of still and moving image, styling and creative writing.

Engagement with live projects set by industry and competitions such as D&AD Arts Thread and Creative Conscience will be undertaken in order to further develop your professional portfolio and enhance employability. These additions to your portfolio will show your work to be relevant to the needs of industry and your context as an emerging design and communications practitioner.

More information

FA6015 -

Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

The module gives you the opportunity to research, conceptualise and realise a self-determined Fashion Communication project, building on the skills, knowledge and understanding that you have gathered throughout the programme.

You will undertake in-depth research on a subject area of your own choosing, collating evidence of critical and cultural subject awareness. This research will culminate in the development of an original and creative Fashion Communication project that answers an identified need and is supported by thorough promotional, strategic and logistical planning.

Semester one focuses on research and concept development. You will investigate contemporary practice, and realise self-directed creative outputs, taking an approach of curiosity, creativity and experimentation. You will develop and demonstrate your capabilities as a professional fashion communicator through the use of still and moving image, graphic layout, typography, art direction, styling and creative writing.

This lays the foundation for semester two when you will develop and realise final major project outcomes determined by your career goals and ambitions, and agreed through regular supervision, formative critiques and presentations and personal project plans. Semester Two projects will be situated in a commercial context, underpinned by strategic and promotional planning that would support the launch of your concept. You are encouraged to demonstrate an independent, experimental and open-minded approach, while considering the requirements of your chosen target audience. Outcomes could include a combination of films, publications, digital platforms, experience designs, PR campaign documents, exhibitions, brand strategies or a combination of the above. They can be a development of your work in Semester One or take a new direction, and they will evidence your acquisition of sophisticated subject knowledge and understanding. You will be expected to defend your work and its relevance through critical self-evaluation addressing your own performance and opportunities for further development.

Consideration of criteria and preparation for national awards allow you to gain recognition and develop your professional skills and understanding. You will be encouraged to develop your own live project briefs where appropriate, through negotiation with industry partners.

More information

FA6016 -

Professional Practice and Portfolio (Core,20 Credits)

This Professional Practice and Portfolio module allows you the opportunity to frame your learning in an industry context. With employability at its core, this module provides career workshops focusing on developing an effective CV application and covering letter in response to advertised industry opportunities. Tutorials, seminars with guest speakers and self-branding sessions will help you practice your interview and networking techniques and develop an understanding of personal branding, self-promotion and professional practice necessary for an aspiring Fashion Communication graduate.

A written ‘Location of Practice’ reflective statement will place your work and skills in a professional context and outline your ongoing career aims and ambitions, informing you of the direction, environment and competencies required to effectively exploit and move on available opportunities. Professional planning will map in a business-like fashion your critical steps into your next stage, whether further academic study, industry position or establishing your own business, and you will produce a portfolio website and self-branding materials in line with your ambitions.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

Fashion Communication BA (Hons)

Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS

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International applicants please apply using the links below

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2022

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Any Questions?

Our admissions team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901.

Contact Details for Applicants:

bc.applicantservices@northumbria.ac.uk

All information on this course page is accurate at the time of viewing.

Our Campus based courses starting in 2022 and 2023 will be delivered on-campus with supporting online learning content. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to adjust the delivery of our education accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

On-campus contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with any additional restrictions, which may be imposed by the Government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors. This could potentially mean increased or fully online delivery, should such restrictions on in-person contact time be required.

 

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We continuously review and improve course content in consultation with our students and employers. To make sure we can inform you of any changes to your course register for updates on the course page.


Your Learning Experience find out about our distinctive approach at 
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