Bachelor of Design (Fashion)
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Leading three-year degree preparing students for a career in fashion design, with a focus on sustainability, hands-on studio learning, and industry readiness.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 38 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Develop technical fashion design skills
Build capabilities in garment construction, patternmaking, textile selection, and digital/manual techniques.
Practice sustainable and ethical design
Understand responsibilities of designers, integrating sustainability and ethical considerations throughout the creative process.
Cultivate an individual design identity
Grow your style and design direction through studio practice and self-reflection.
What You're Signing Up For
This internationally recognised degree develops your skills as a creative and industry-ready fashion professional. With strong emphasis on sustainability and current industry practice, you'll develop your identity as a designer while mastering the technical, design, and collaborative skills needed for a diverse range of roles in the global fashion industry. Opportunities include studio-based learning, international study, industry placements, and developing a professional portfolio that reflects your direction and strengths.
Course Content
- Introduction to fashion design
- Drawing and communication skills
- Research and reflective practice
- Textile development and fabric knowledge
- Manual and digital patternmaking
- Industrial garment construction
- Design studios with live project briefs
- Advanced patternmaking and garment construction (drape, grading, tailoring)
- Materials exploration and collection development
- Critical thinking and responsible design
- Team-based collaboration with industry clients
- Portfolio development and final design projects
- Work placement/practical industry experience
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects
10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above (5 reading, 5 writing)
10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above
Or equivalent qualifications or experience
Portfolio submission (unless automatic entry criteria met)
May be asked to attend interview
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Fashion
Design
Creative industries
Future employment opportunities might be
Fashion designer
Patternmaker
Textile developer
Garment technologist
Fashion buyer
Fashion entrepreneur/business owner
Product developer
Stylist
Fashion educator
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.