Content of the studies 

The first-year major studies build on the student’s previous knowledge in fashion and textile design. The FaCT students follow a curriculum of Advanced studies consisting of both programme-wide Joint studies and Major studies. Joint studies address general knowledge related to design culture and research and overall guidance in the thesis process.

Sustainability is the grounding for all studies in fashion, clothing and textile design. Emphasis is given to innovating new ecologically and culturally sustainable solutions. In the studies, creative practice is combined with analytical skills, and the basics of academic and design-research methods in the exploration of trends and phenomena. Fundamental design skills, such as design for functionality, aesthetics, and diversity, are essential in the studies. Students are challenged to explore the possibilities of new technologies and innovative design solutions in both physical and digital media. The studies support the student’s personal creative vision and skills in a forward-thinking approach in product and material development, cultivate a practice-led approach.  The studies emphasize the student’s capability to take part in multidisciplinary studies and collaborative work and nurture an entrepreneurial mindset.

The Major studies form the core content of the first-year study curricula. Design-driven experimentation and critical thinking extend the core of fashion, clothing and textile design studies. The studies start with the course Sustainable Fashion and Textile Design and continue with one of the two alternative compulsory courses: Innovative Fashion Design, or Experimental Textile Design. Students are encouraged to innovate and re-think current practices in fashion and textiles as well as design business and industry. In addition to further compulsory major studies, including a business-oriented, and a fashion/textile-research oriented module, the first-year curriculum includes alternative and elective studio-based and project-based courses.

The thesis process–initiated in the start of the second study year–and the second year studies, are supported by programme-level research courses, selection of advanced workshop courses and further major and elective studies. The selection of Major studies and the content of the Elective studies is adjusted to support the student’s personal study track.