The Best Textile Design Courses at UK Universities

A textile design course in the UK fosters creative minds, and UK universities have a long history of producing famous and accomplished alumni. An undergraduate degree in textile and fabric design generally lasts three years, with postgraduate fashion and textile courses lasting one year full-time and two years part-time.

Any graduate with a degree in textile design can become a textile designer, fabric analyser, fashion designer, or consultant. On average, an experienced textile and apparel designer will earn up to £25,000 depending on the knowledge and understanding of the market.

Every UK university offers workshop facilities that allow students to learn beyond the classrooms. UK universities have a vision of teaching more than textbooks via live learning or research-based methods of study. This helps the students learn skills required to perform the job in the real world.

Learn more about studying fashion and textiles courses in the UK below (Guardian University Guide 2024) and begin your application journey by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

Top Five UK Universities for Textile Design Courses

Below is the list of the top five UK universities for studying textile design, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. Loughborough University

Loughborough University is ranked number one in the UK for Fashion and textiles. Its Textile Design BA (Hons) programme encourages students to explore the depths of their creativity through conceptual design thinking and core practical skills. 

Loughborough is top 10 in all UK league tables. It is based on a large 440-acre single-site campus at the heart of the UK, with incredible facilities and an international reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

• Suggested course: Textile Design BA (Hons)
• Entry requirements: BBB/ABC from 3 A levels. IB diploma: 32 (5,5,5 HL).
• International fee: £23,000

2. Kingston University

The Fashion BA (Hons) course at Kingston University touches on various areas associated with fashion, design and textiles. Students are introduced to design's cultural and historical aspects for better learning and understanding design methodology.

In Year 1, you'll explore the design process encompassing 2D and 3D fashion design elements, including textiles, styling, photography, and pattern cutting. In Year 2, you'll engage in live sponsored projects and international competitions, gaining exposure to professional practices through career modules featuring talks by industry experts, CV workshops, and interview simulations.

• Suggested course: Fashion BA (Hons)
• Entry requirements: UCAS tariff points: 128-144. Level 3 qualifications in Art and Design subjects (A-levels, BTEC Diploma, Access Diploma, IB Diploma, etc.).
• International fee: £19,500

3. University of Wales Trinity Saint David

The BA (Hons) Surface Pattern and Textiles programme at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David is a dynamic, interdisciplinary course focusing on textiles, materiality, and patterns in fashion, interiors, and design-led galleries. Year 1 is intensive, offering diverse learning methods, practical skills, and design thinking.

Year 2 builds upon this, promoting risk-taking, analysis, and innovation in design projects. The curriculum emphasises practical skills, digital proficiency, and creative exploration, preparing students for careers in the vibrant field of surface patterns and textiles.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Surface Pattern and Textiles
• Entry requirements: 120 UCAS tariff points. Three GCE A-Levels or equivalent. International Baccalaureate score of 32.
• International fee: £13,500

4. University of Arts London

At UAL’s Chelsea College of Arts, the BA Textile Design programme encourages an experimental and creative approach to textile design, emphasising colour, materials, and printing, knit, stitching, or weaving processes. Through projects exploring various contexts like body, interior, and social design, you'll expand conceptual thinking and engage in design activism. 

The curriculum promotes 'responsible design', addressing current and future textile contexts. Led by industry experts, you'll develop visual research, idea generation, and technical skills in specialised textile workshops, guiding you toward selecting a textile specialisation.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Textile Design
• Entry requirements: 2 A Levels at grade C or above. Merit, Pass, Pass (MPP) at BTEC Extended Diploma.
• International fee: £28,570

5. University of Staffordshire

The Surface Pattern and Textile Design course at Staffordshire focuses on enhancing surfaces for fashion or interiors through innovative designs. It offers practical workshops and individual and group tutorials and encourages self-assessment and reflective practice. With strong industry links, students benefit from work placements, industry projects, and opportunities for sponsorship and employment. 

The final year includes showcasing work at Degree Show, Gradex, and New Designers in London. Equipped with industry-standard facilities like digital printing and CAD suite, students receive comprehensive training for a successful career in design.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Surface Pattern and Textile Design
• Entry requirements: GCE A Levels - grades BBC or equivalent. BTEC National Extended Diploma - grade DMM.
• International fee: £16,750

Textile Design Study in the UK

If you want to begin your application to study fabric or textile design in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to study textile design courses in the UK?

To study textile design courses in the UK, students generally need qualifications such as A-levels, IB diploma or international equivalent in relevant subjects like art and design. 

How long does it take to be a textile designer in the UK?

Becoming a textile designer in the UK varies. Generally, undergraduate textile design courses last for three to four years. However, some individuals may also pursue postgraduate studies or gain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships, extending the duration.

How much do textile teachers get paid in the UK?

The salary of textile teachers in the UK can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of institution. On average, they can earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year.

Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for textile design courses?

Universities such as the University of the Arts London, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Leeds are known for their prominent textile design programmes with high acceptance rates.