University of the Arts London

What you'll study

This programme develops advanced understanding of the commercial, strategic and operational dimensions of fashion. Core themes include brand strategy, international retail and wholesale, supply chain and production, sustainability and circular business models, digital commerce, data-driven decision making and innovation management.

• Core modules — Brand & Strategic Management, Fashion Business Models, Supply Chain & Sourcing Strategy, Sustainability & Circularity in Fashion.
• Digital and analytical practice — Digital Marketing and E‑commerce for Fashion, Consumer Insights and Data Analytics, Social Media Strategy and Content for Brands.
• Industry innovation — Entrepreneurship and New Business Development, Innovation Management and Technology Adoption, Collaborative Industry Projects.
• Research and major project — Research Methods for Practice and a final Major Project or Consultancy Project that integrates research, strategy and implementation for a real or simulated client.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of online lectures, seminars, case studies, live industry workshops, peer critique and one-to-one supervision. Assessment typically includes written assignments, business plans, brand audits, pitches and the final major project. The course emphasises transferable leadership skills such as strategic planning, financial literacy for fashion, negotiation and stakeholder management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in any relevant discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in fashion, retail, creative industries or entrepreneurship may be considered without a directly comparable academic qualification. Typical application materials include a CV, a personal statement outlining motivation and career aims, academic transcripts and at least one professional or academic reference.

Because the programme is taught in English, applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language qualification or equivalent evidence of proficiency. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview or an assessment task to discuss suitability and professional goals.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of strategic, commercial and leadership roles across the fashion sector and adjacent industries. Typical career paths include:

• Brand Manager, Brand Director or Creative Business Manager
• Buying, Merchandising and Commercial Planning roles in retail and wholesale
• E‑commerce and Digital Strategy positions
• Supply Chain Manager, Sustainability Officer or Circular Economy Specialist
• Fashion Entrepreneur, Founder or Business Development Lead in start‑ups
• Management consultant or analyst within fashion and lifestyle specialist consultancies

The online format also supports professionals looking to advance within their current organisation, to pivot from a creative role into a commercial one, or to scale independent ventures by applying strategic frameworks and industry networks developed on the course.

Why study at University of the Arts London

University of the Arts London brings together London College of Fashion and other UAL colleges, offering a unique combination of creative heritage and industry connectivity. The MA Fashion Business (Online) benefits from the college's specialised focus on fashion practice, research and enterprise, and from established links with brands, retailers, agencies and industry experts.

Students on the online programme have access to UAL's digital learning environment, extensive library and research resources, and a schedule of guest lectures and masterclasses from practitioners and leaders in fashion business. The course is designed to foster a global peer network through international cohorts, mentoring opportunities and live projects with industry partners. Support services such as enterprise advice, careers guidance and alumni networks help graduates to translate learning into practical career progression.