FdA Fashion Foundation Degree (Level 5) — Part-time
Course outline
This Level 5 Foundation Degree course provides a practical hands-on qualification in Fashion with strong links to industry.
You can study this course over two years (full-time) or three years (part-time) and then top-up to a full Level 6 BA (Hons) Art and Design (Fashion) degree. The Foundation Degree in Fashion is awarded by Nottingham Trent University.
About the course
The Foundation Degree in Fashion course is responding to the changing needs of the fashion industry with a newly revised curriculum -focusing on producing technically skilled fashion graduates with a thorough understanding of the creative design process from initial ideas to resolved realisations.
Situated right in the heart of Nottingham’s Creative Quarter, this course is surrounded by exciting and established local and global fashion brands such as Paul Smith, Sunspel, Speedo, Universal Works, and a growing number of independent fashion labels embracing the creative spirit of Nottingham.
We're committed to delivering a university degree in a high-quality college environment, offering students the opportunity to enjoy a supported learning journey whilst building up their skills and confidence in preparing them for the next step of their journeys into industry or topping up to achieve their full Level 6 BA (Hons) in Art & Design (Fashion).
You will undertake a wide range of projects and competitions which will help you to develop and realise your creative potential and technical abilities. You will attend exhibitions and seminars, and have the opportunity to research and experience the domestic fashion market on trips to London and other creative UK cities, and the international scene during a potential European study trip.
Modules include:
- design process and realization
- fashion product and brand development
- visual communication techniques for fashion
- fashion in context
- fashion forecasting and design
- professional development
- final major project
You can view the full Course Specification here.
Nottingham College is proud to have been awarded the Teaching Excellence Framework Bronze Award for high quality student experience and outcomes. You can read more about this on the Office for Students website.
How to apply for this course
Apply online to start in 2025/26.
Want to find out more first?
Would you like more information? Email our HE team.
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Location:
Stoney Street
Nottingham NG1 1NG |
Date:Start: Tuesday 23rd September 2025 |
Fees / reductions:The tuition fee is per year. Various bursaries are available for some Higher Education courses. Tuition fee: £5,500 |
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Course code: C025948 / Q025949 |
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| Qualification | Fashion Foundation Degree |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Level | Level 5 |
| Entry requirements | You will need a minimum of 48 UCAS points from:
Other combinations of qualifications and experience will also be considered, as will Level 3 qualifications not currently listed on the UCAS tariff. For creative courses you would usually need a qualification in a relevant subject area. We would expect students to be working at (or to demonstrate competency at) Level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy. You will be invited to attend an interview and will be asked to submit an e-portfolio or written assignment. Experienced mature applicants with relevant professional experience and/or qualifications are welcome to apply. |
| Teaching & assessment | Your work will be assessed on a continuous basis. |
| Progression | You can progress on to our one-year BA (Hons) Art and Design (Fashion) top-up degree, also awarded by Nottingham Trent University. Another option would be moving on to a top-up course at another provider, or the second or third year of a specialised Fashion degree course. Alternatively, you could start your career in the fashion and clothing industries or related areas. Many of our students have progressed into employment with some of the world’s biggest fashion brands or set up their own business. |
| Additional information | This course is validated by Nottingham Trent University.  |
