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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

311951 v.1 Fashion Major


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


The Fashion Design Major focuses on the study of the relationship between garment and the body. The course provides students with a theoretical and contextual framework to understand national and international trends, the cultural significance and practice of fashion design. The development of research, analysis, ideation, production and communication skills is underpinned by the principles of both the design process and creative practice. The three year course encourages an innovative approach to design, coupled with technical competencies and industry expertise, preparing graduates for a broad spectrum of career opportunities within the contemporary designer fashion industry.


Major Overview Note

Students choosing this major within the Bachelor of Arts degree will also choose another major or an elective stream. Choosing a second major allows students to study in an additional discipline area. Choosing an elective stream allows students to undertake further study in the discipline of their first major or choose from a variety of units from around the University.



Major/Stream Entry and Completion Details

Students should complete Design Practice 171 and Form and Structure 102 in first year. Attending an information session is essential.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. apply the principles and technology of garment design and construction; independently research and manage the application of new skills and knowledge to the garment design process

2. apply critical thinking and evaluation to the practice of contemporary fashion design; apply the language and semiotics of garment to the expression of an idea or concept

3. apply the principles of garment design through an investigation of 2D and 3D media; develop a collection through the synthesis of a body of independent research

4. clearly communicate design solutions through the application of written, verbal two and three dimensional information; apply a high level of professional practice in the presentation of work to industry

5. analyse garment technologies for appropriate application to garment design and production; assess the impact of technology on sustainable design practice

6. independently sustain their intellectual curiosity, apply critical thinking and evaluation to the practice of contemporary fashion design

7. research and analyse contemporary garment technologies in relation to global sustainability; integrate knowledge gained from research into the design and construction of new garments for the ‘global village’

8. recognise the theoretical underpinnings of garment and its cultural context; respect and value the diversity of garment design and structure from different cultures

9. develop and demonstrate professional and personal attributes necessary to success in the fashion industry, including interpersonal skills, and an appreciation of business ethics; apply leadership skills to working both independently and in small teams


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 2 Semester 1
312205 v.1   Garment and The Body 201 3.0 25.0
312208 v.1   Sustainable Fashion 202 3.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 2 Semester 2
312207 v.1   Culture and Dress 203 3.0 25.0
312209 v.1   Technology and Dress 204 3.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 1
312210 v.1   Language of Dress 301 3.0 25.0
312211 v.1   Fit, Form and Function 302 3.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 2
312212 v.1   Collection Development 303 3.0 25.0
312213 v.1   Clothing in Context-The Business of Fashion 304 3.0 25.0
  50.0




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