New Zealand Certificate in Fashion
Design
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Learn the foundational skills of fashion design, garment construction, and textile knowledge to prepare for entry-level roles in the fashion industry or further study.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 19 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Understand industry expectations and design processes
Gain insight into how the fashion industry operates and the processes involved in bringing a design to life.
Develop patternmaking and garment construction skills
Acquire entry-level technical skills needed to produce basic garments and patterns.
Explore and apply a variety of textiles
Learn about different types of textiles and their applications in fashion design.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Fashion at Ara is designed to introduce students to core textiles, fashion design skills, and technical skills in patternmaking and garment construction. Students gain practical, industry-relevant experience and produce a range of basic garments in workshop settings under expert guidance. The programme serves as a stepping stone into entry-level employment in the fashion industry or progression to advanced study.
Course Content
- Design and textile concepts
- Fashion industry practice
- Technical skills – garment/product construction
- Technical skills – pattern making
- Introduction to the workings of the fashion industry
- Workplace practices
What you need to know first
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits or equivalent
Alternative entry via evidence of equivalent skills through experience may be considered
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Fashion
Apparel
Textiles
Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Assistant patternmaker
Garment technician
Assistant machinist