Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design
Design
A course by
Whitecliffe College
A three-year, full-time degree equipping students with technical, conceptual, and industry skills to design and produce sustainable fashion. The programme teaches creative, research, and enterprise skills to address ecological and ethical issues in contemporary fashion design.
NZ$8,544
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 3 years
NZ$8,544
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop technical and conceptual fashion skills
Students will acquire advanced technical skills in garment construction, patternmaking, and the use of industrial equipment, alongside conceptual capabilities in sustainable design thinking.
Apply sustainability principles
Graduates can integrate ecological and ethical considerations into all stages of the fashion design process.
Undertake industry-engaged projects
Students complete real-world projects and internships with leading fashion businesses, gaining professional experience and industry connections.
About This Course
The Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design at Whitecliffe develops creative and critical thinkers capable of producing positive change in the fashion industry. The programme is structured around sustainable fashion research, theoretical studies, and creative enterprise, integrating technical, professional, and creative skills. Students learn through practice-based studio and industry projects, exploring garment construction, patternmaking, concept development, and industry collaboration. Graduates are prepared for careers across fashion design, styling, sustainability consultancy, and more, as well as for postgraduate study.
Course Content
- Sustainable fashion research and practice
- Theoretical studies and history of fashion
- Creative enterprise and industry engagement
- Pattern making and garment construction
- Concept and design development
- Surface and material explorations
- Tailoring
- Industry internships and collaborations
- Sustainable fashion practices
- Earth-centred design
- Natural dyeing
- Fashion illustration
- Adobe Creative Suite skills
- Development of concept-based collections
- Annual fashion show presentation
Entry Requirements
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits each in three approved subjects, plus University Entrance literacy and numeracy OR
New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology Level 4 OR
New Zealand Certificate in Fine Arts Level 4 OR
New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media + Design Level 4 OR
NZ or overseas qualification assessed as equivalent
Interview to determine suitability
Letter of Intent
Portfolio of 12–24 creative works
International students: must turn 18 within the first year, hold equivalent qualification, IELTS Academic score of 6 (no band lower than 5.5), meet NZ visa entry requirements
Build towards these roles
Fashion DesignerSustainability ConsultantFashion StylistFashion Marketing SpecialistFashion Design EducatorPatternmakerFashion BloggerCostume Wardrobe AssistantSample MachinistWorkroom AssistantTextile DesignerFashion Brand Manager
Build skills in these industries
FashionDesignCreative Arts
