Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This three-year undergraduate degree (with options for placement or study abroad routes) combines hands-on textile techniques with contemporary design research. You will explore print, woven, knitted and stitched textiles alongside dyeing, surface manipulation, experimental materials and digital textile processes such as CAD, digital printing and electronic textiles. The programme balances technical workshops and studio practice with contextual studies in design history, sustainability and trend-forecasting.

• Year 1 / Level 4: introductory studio skills, basic woven/printed/knit processes, colour, drawing for textiles and introductory contextual studies.
• Year 2 / Level 5: development of personal direction, advanced surface design, mixed-media textiles, specialist technical options and collaborative or live industry briefs.
• Year 3 / Level 6: independent honours project, professional practice module, portfolio development and final collection or body of work presented in a public degree show.

Teaching includes practical workshops, design tutorials, group critiques and project briefs. State-of-the-art facilities support you across traditional and digital production methods: dye and wet studios, screen and digital print labs, weaving and knitting workshops, embroidery and stitch studios, and access to CAD and textile-specific software. Sustainability, material longevity and responsible production practices are integrated through projects and technical guidance.

Entry requirements

Admissions look for evidence of creative potential, motivation and suitability for the programme. Applicants are usually expected to have a recognised level 3 qualification (such as A-levels, BTEC or equivalent) or a suitable foundation diploma, along with a portfolio of sustained creative work demonstrating practical textile, surface or related design ability.

International qualifications and equivalents are considered. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements. Mature applicants and those with relevant professional experience are welcome to apply; a portfolio interview may form part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a wide range of creative roles across fashion, interiors, product design and specialist textiles. Typical career paths include:

• Textile and surface pattern designer for fashion and interiors
• Print and weave technician or sampler
• Knit designer and knit technologist
• Product developer and textile buyer support roles within manufacturing or retail
• Freelance designer, design studio or consultancy work
• Specialist roles in textile innovation, materials research or sustainability-focused practice
• Postgraduate study in design, textile innovation or related research degrees

Through industry briefs, live projects and placement options, students build professional portfolios and contacts with design studios, manufacturers and retailers to support graduate employment or freelance practice.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University’s art and design provision is delivered within a practical, studio-led environment that emphasises making, experimentation and industry relevance. Students on the Textile Design programme benefit from dedicated textile workshops and technical support, regular crits and one-to-one tutorial guidance, and a vibrant creative community across the School of Art & Design.

The university has established links with design businesses, manufacturers and cultural organisations, providing opportunities for live briefs, placements and guest-led projects. Nottingham’s creative sector and good transport links make it a practical base for networking, industry visits and exhibiting student work. Employability support, enterprise initiatives and portfolio development are embedded into the course to help you move confidently into professional practice or further study.