Bachelor of Design (Fashion)
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Become a skilled, industry-ready fashion professional with this internationally recognised, sustainability-focused degree. Develop advanced design and technical skills, individual style, and work-ready competence through hands-on, real-world projects, client work, and opportunities for international collaboration.
NZ$9,442
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Work-Ready Fashion Designer
Graduate capable of designing and producing garments and collections, ready to enter fashion industry roles.
Advanced Design and Technical Skills
Demonstrate proficiency in manual and digital patternmaking, garment construction, and textile manipulation.
About This Course
This leading Bachelor of Design (Fashion) degree equips students to become responsible, sustainable, and innovative fashion professionals. With a boutique learning environment, industry connections, collaborative cross-discipline opportunities, and a curriculum that covers technical, creative, and enterprise aspects, graduates emerge ready for employment or entrepreneurship within the fast-evolving fashion industry, both locally and internationally. No prior sewing experience required, only creativity and a passion for fashion.
Course Content
- Introduction to fashion design
- Drawing and communication skills
- Research and reflective practice
- Fabrics and textile development
- Manual and digital patternmaking
- Industrial garment construction techniques
- Project-based design studios
- Advanced patternmaking and garment construction
- Drape, grading and tailoring methods
- Materials exploration
- Collection development
- Critical design thinking
- Team project with external client
- Portfolio development
- Exhibitions and international competition participation
- Industry placements and internships
Entry Requirements
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects
Build towards these roles
Fashion designerPattern makerGarment technologistFashion buyerFashion entrepreneurTextile designerWork in acclaimed fashion labels
Build skills in these industries
Fashion
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
