This is a studio-based, practice led course demanding a high level of commitment and motivation. Underpinned by a supportive theoretical framework and instruction in professional contemporary practice, it allows for collaborative opportunities for developing pioneering work within the textile industry. Concern and debate regarding the roles and responsibilities of the designer towards environmental issues is key to the course. It actively responds to the growing awareness of selecting raw materials, the impact of production and the ultimate life cycle of the product, especially concerning its disposal or re-use. Through investigation and innovation you are encouraged to develop solutions which challenge convention and merge design with function.

The course encourages applications from students with a high level of practical textile skills, design development methodologies and encourages an ambition directed towards different aspects of the textile industry. To succeed on the course you will need a high level of commitment and confidence in your abilities. Throughout the course you participate in individual and group tutorials, develop skills through workshops, on-line resources and postgraduate talks designed to introduce you to a range of visiting artists/designers and practitioners. The Textile Environment Design (TED) project at Chelsea is a unique research unit investigating the role designers play in the field of eco design. It is a resource that students, researchers and designers all benefit from and contribute to. A recent student used TED's extensive library of contacts to establish a unique sustainable craft design project based in Thailand. The unit also encourages MA students to attend conferences in this growing area and report their findings back to the College.

The course follows an outline of three main phases:

Phase 3: Resolution

These phases are set within a credit framework of three assessed units: Studio Practice, Advanced Studio Practice (which run sequentially), and Theoretical Studies, running throughout the course.

Studio practice involves evolving and developing a personal programme of studio work and related research. Theoretical Studies provides a framework from which you develop a critical research paper, enabling you to locate your ideas and practice in relation to contemporary debate on cultural and theoretical issues.

Throughout the course you participate in individual and group tutorials, develop skills through Personal Professional Development workshops, on-line resources and postgraduate talks that are organised to introduce you to a range of visiting designers and practitioners.

Graduates have gone on to careers as textiles practitioners and designer-makers either working with, or establishing their own, major and independent fashion labels. Recent employment has included working as print designer for Ralph Lauren in New York, working on sustainable craft design projects in India and as an in-house designer for Heritage Cashmere. Other opportunities include freelance design work, interior product design or other industry related careers. Graduates are also well placed to go on to undertake further research.

• An Honours degree or equivalent academic/professional qualifications
• Written statement of intent
• Selection of recent work 
• EU/International students must show proof of equivalent qualification and IELTS 7.0, with a minimum of 6.0 in any one paper or equivalent.
• The College takes into consideration prior learning, alternative qualifications and experience

HOW TO APPLY

One of the most important things to do to is find out as much information about the course or research programme as you can. Please read the prospectus, check the website and where possible visit us on an Open Day to get a full understanding of what the courses are about, and the selection criteria for each course.  This will give you the best possible chance when applying for your chosen course.

APPLICATION FORMS

The application for for entry in October 2011 wil be available to download here from October 2010.

You will also be able to pick up application forms at our Open Days or by calling our Admissions Office. Return your completed form, including your personal statement and reference, directly to the Graduate School.

PORTFOLIO & STATEMENT OF INTENT

Along with your application form we ask you to submit a portfolio of work to be sent to the College (usually in CD or DVD format), as well as a statement of intent or research proposal. Applicants will be short listed at this stage against the entry requirements and selection criteria for the course. Selection criteria vary for each course, so please check the College website to find out further details.

PORTFOLIO & INTERVIEW

If you have been short listed and are invited to interview you will be asked to attend the College on a set day. Usually around two to three weeks after your portfolio review and interview we will write to you informing you of our decision.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Postgraduate Diploma & Masters Degrees:
If applying for AHRC Funding (UK/EU Masters Degree Applicants only): tbc.
All other UK & EU applicants: tbc.
International: No official deadline, but you are advised to apply as soon as possible.