About Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University-department of fashion

This programme provides students with an education which allows them to function within the wide parameters of the exciting world of fashion. It also aims to equip the student with the ability to adapt to the fast changing needs within the clothing and fashion industry.
Students are specifically trained to:

identify and interpret fashion trends within a specific context or market area;
be informed on developments in textiles, colour and design processes;
analyse & evaluate historical and cultural influences in the course of clothing and fashion design development;
develop and prepare design solutions for the manufacture of garments for the various market sectors;
interpret fashion changes in the commercial environment with existing and related technology;
investigate cost effectiveness of garments through innovative production technology methods, including (CAD/CAM);
apply practical skills in pattern adaptation and garment assembly by using appropriate materials, equipment and processes;
foster communication on all levels of production and management by written, verbal and visual methods;
acquire computer literacy skills for communication purposes;
apply the students’ managerial, marketing and costing skills to initiate self-employment.

This programme caters for specialization within a design or industrial field. It encourages students to develop and utilize their imaginative and intellectual problem-solving skills in a theme of their own choice and interest. Alternatively the theme could be initiated by industry through sponsorship. The student will be guided, instructed and monitored in research methodology, time management and planning.