Fashion : Further study

A 2011 HESA survey of 2010 graduates indicates that around 3% of fashion graduates had gone on to further study six months after graduation. A further 3% were combining work with study. Some of these would have taken an MA specialising in one aspect of the discipline, such as childrenswear or embroidery. Other Masters courses may allow graduates to investigate the social, economic, ethical, environmental or cultural side of fashion in more detail. Some MAs in fashion are very practical and are assessed on that basis - for example, by requiring the student to deliver an innovative collection. Others involve essays and a dissertation.

Fashion graduates can also take a Masters in related areas such as theatrical costume or textiles, or develop an interest in accessories such as millinery or shoe design. Fashion illustration or aspects of fashion media and fashion management are also popular choices for those with an appropriate first degree. Increasing numbers of students are also choosing to take up courses in entrepreneurship.

Shorter courses may add to your skill set and could develop skills in particular design IT programs or aim to develop technical and hands-on expertise in areas as diverse as pattern grading or digital printing.

These trends show only what previous graduates in your subject did immediately upon graduating. Over the course of their career - the first few years in particular - many others will opt for some form of further study, either part time or full time. If further study interests you, start by thinking about postgrad study and search courses and research to identify your options.

Look at funding my further study for details relating to finance and the application process.