Bachelor of Arts (Hons) - Fashion Buying and Merchandising
- 3 years
- Duration
- 30,890 GBP/year
- Price
- September
- Start
- June
- Deadline
- Bachelor
- Degree
- Campus
- Format
- London / United Kingdom
- Location
Program description
The BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising course at London College of Fashion explores the strategic roles within the retail sector, from value to luxury brands. It develops students' fashion awareness and business acumen by analysing industry practices in both established and emerging organisations.
The curriculum focuses on the strategic relationship between a fashion business and its customers, examining how companies grow through new retail formats and market entry. The course, accredited by the Textile Institute, blends theoretical, historical, and professional study.
A key feature is industry integration through collaborative projects, guest lectures from international professionals, and live briefs. Students can enhance their employability with an optional industry placement year, gaining valuable experience, contacts, and an additional Diploma in Professional Studies qualification.
Program structure
Stage 1
In stage 1 (year 1) you are required to complete 120 credits at level 4 in order to progress to stage 2 (year 2):
- Introduction to Fashion Buying and Merchandising (20 credits)
- The Fundamentals of Responsible Buying and Merchandising (20 credits)
- The Fashion Retail Landscape (20 credits)
- Circular Product Development (40 credits)
- Fashion Cultures and Histories (20 credits)
Stage 2
In stage 2 (year 2) you are required to complete 120 credits at level 5 to progress to Stage 3 (year 3):
- Data Informed Decision Making (40 credits)
- Critical Issues in Fashion Research (20 credits)
- Research Methods for Innovative and Disruptive Practices (40 credits)
- Work Experience Based Learning (20 credits)
Optional Diploma Year
Stage 3
In stage 3 (year 3 or 4) you are required to complete 120 credits at level 6:
- Project Proposal (20 credits)
- Fashion Buying and Merchandising Strategy (40 credits)
- Final Major Project (60 credits)
Students successfully completing stage 3 will be awarded the degree BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising.
A 20-credit unit is approximately equivalent to 200 hours of learning time, which includes a mixture of taught time, independent study and assessment.
Price
Tuition fee:
- 30,890 GBP per year*
*Tuition fees for international students may increase by up to 5% in each future year of your course.
During your studies, you may need to cover extra costs which are not included in your tuition fees. You might need to budget for materials and equipment specific to your course. You may also need a laptop or other digital tech/software.
Requirements for applicants
The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are:
One or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications:
- A Level passes at Grade C or above to total a minimum 112 UCAS tariff points (preferred subjects include Maths, English, Economics, Business Studies, Fashion Studies, Science subjects, IT, Geography, Psychology and Languages);
- Distinction, Merit, Merit at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects Art & Design);
- Distinction at Foundation Diploma in Art and Design;
- Merit at UAL Extended Diploma;
- Access Diploma or 112 new UCAS tariff points from the Access to HE Diploma;
- 112 new UCAS tariff points from a combination of the above qualifications or an equivalent full Level 3 qualification;
- Or equivalent EU or non-EU qualifications such as International Baccalaureate Diploma;
- and six GCSE passes at grade A-C or grade 9-4, to include Maths and English Language.
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases.
The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
- Related academic or work experience, preferably within a fashion retail store environment or a work placement at a fashion retailer;
- The quality of the personal statement;
- A strong academic or other professional reference;
- OR a combination of these factors.
Each application will be considered on its own merit but we cannot guarantee an offer.
English Language Requirements
- IELTS level 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
About the university
The University of the Arts London (UAL) produces and encourages the creativity essential for a better future. Its colleges have been at the forefront of innovative education since 1842, creating work with a lasting impact on people and the planet, driven by curiosity, imagination, and purpose.
London is fundamental to UAL's identity, providing a vital context where the university connects and exchanges ideas with individuals from all walks of life. Globally, its creative network influences education, culture, business, and society.
Through innovative research and creative instruction, UAL's faculty and staff bring fresh perspectives to education. The university enables students to build the careers they desire by working with them at every level - from pre-degree to postgraduate, and from short courses to online learning.
UAL's colleges
Ranked second in the world for art and design, UAL comprises six distinct colleges:
- Camberwell College of Arts
- Central Saint Martins
- Chelsea College of Arts
- London College of Communication
- London College of Fashion
- Wimbledon College of Arts
Together, they form a community of creatives, innovators, trailblazers, and storytellers, united in their mission to reimagine the future.
Courses in the visual arts, animation, screen, communication, fashion, media, and performance are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
