BA Hons in Design for Textiles Fashion Interior Art

The BA (Hons) Design for Textiles (Fashion, Interior, Art) program is a highly creative course that balances theory and practice in fabric design methodology and production techniques. It emphasizes:

• Expertise in designing and producing innovative fabrics for various outcomes.

• Development of a unique visual handwriting and expression using diverse media.

• Appreciation of raw materials, innovation in techniques, and an in-depth design process.

• Sustainable and responsible design practices to address global and local challenges.

• Strong technological understanding to prepare graduates for meaningful industry contributions.

Graduates are well-equipped to join industries such as printed, woven, and knitted fashion and furnishing fabrics, accessories, wall coverings, gallery pieces, and more.

Year-wise breakdown of core and elective modules/courses

While specific modules are not detailed, the program structure includes:

• Year 1-2: Foundation in textile design, covering printed, woven, and knitted textiles, digital and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technologies, marketing strategy, and sustainable practices.

• Year 3: Opportunity to specialize in print, weave, or knit, and either complete an industry placement or a collaborative industry project.

• Year 4: Completion of a textiles project, developing visual, written, and verbal evaluation skills in response to a self-identified project/design brief.

Learning and assessment methods

The program employs a blend of:

• Lectures and seminars.

• Studio-based projects.

• Group projects and collaborative industry briefs.

• Research papers and dissertations.

• Case studies and presentations.

Assessment methods are designed to integrate fully with the learning process, encouraging deep engagement and high achievement. 

Current national and global rankings of the Interiors department/program

• Heriot-Watt University is ranked 256th in the world, 32nd in the UK, and 5th in Scotland according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Unique features or notable facts

• The program is informed by faculty expertise in areas such as smart nanotextiles, textile product development, fashion sustainability, design innovation, and printed textile design.

• Opportunities for international exposure through field trips to events like Premier Vision in Paris and Milan Fashion Week, as well as exchange programs with institutions in the USA, India, and France.