UKFT has worked with the University of Westminster to develop a new Fashion Manufacturing MA course that focuses on apparel production, systems, sourcing and manufacturing processes. The course launches from September 2025 and applications are now open.

This research-driven, industry-informed course is designed to meet the evolving needs of fashion manufacturing, from design and product development to innovative production techniques.

It aims to equip students with the knowledge and expertise to challenge traditional fashion manufacturing systems, emphasizing technology and design for manufacturing, with a focus on innovation. There will also be the opportunity to critically examine existing practices, addressing social, ethical, cultural and political issues within the context of fashion.

It will explore new production models, advanced processes, and offer hands-on industry engagement. Students will gain valuable skills in prototype manufacturing and garment production.

Throughout the course, students will have access to state-of-the-art industry machinery and specialist software and the teaching staff will focus on combining global insights with practical expertise.

Graduates will be equipped for leadership roles in fashion production, garment technology and manufacturing management.

Elliot Barlow, Special Projects Manager at UKFT, said: “Manufacturing-focused courses are rare in higher education, but they are critical to addressing the challenges and opportunities the industry faces today. This new Fashion Manufacturing MA, developed in collaboration with the University of Westminster, has been developed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to reimagine apparel production. By combining research, innovation and hands-on experience, the course will equip graduates to lead the way in sustainable, ethical and technologically advanced manufacturing practices here in the UK.”

Professor Catherine Dormor, Head of Westminster’s College of Design, Creative and Digital Industries, said: “We are excited to be launching our new Fashion Manufacturing MA course this year. As one of the most important global industries, fashion manufacturing sits at the heart of regional economies, bringing increased wealth as well as ethical and environmental challenges. Developed with our industry partner, UKFT, the course challenges traditional manufacturing systems, seeking to develop a new generation of leaders who can address global concerns. Emphasising the role of new technologies and manufacturing design, graduates will have industry-based knowledge and innovative approaches that they will bring to the manufacturing systems fit for the future. Graduates will be globally literate and capable of bridging fashion design, business and production as a force for good.”

Virginia Grose, Head of Westminster’s School of Arts, said: “This new Masters course offers graduates a unique prospect to prepare for a career in apparel production and we are proud to have formed this important partnership with UKFT. As the largest network for fashion and textiles in the UK, the UKFT offers the University of Westminster, as an education partner, access to many workshops and networking opportunities in addition to providing advice and guidance for our students. For example, by offering students an in-depth understanding of production and sourcing for the fashion and textiles industry, from a global perspective and with a close focus on UK sourcing.”

The Fashion Manufacturing MA will be part of a suite of University of Westminster Fashion courses including the new Fashion Sustainability MA and Fashion Accessories Design MA courses, which are launching at the same time and are also open for applications.

Interested students can attend an online open day on 26 February 2025. The first intake for the course will be September 2025.

Apply to study Fashion Manufacturing MA at the University of Westminster.