Studying Design at the University of Leeds
The School of Design provides degree opportunities in a range of design and related areas. Each of our degree courses has its own unique emphasis, and is structured so that you can specialise in a particular subject area.
All of our courses provide a strong theoretical grounding in relevant core subjects. They are distinctive in that they provide an equal balance between theory and practice. You may also develop complementary skills and knowledge through a choice of optional subjects, and/or elective subjects selected from the School or other University departments.
Subjects are studied in the form of modules, which are ‘study packages’ assigned a particular credit value. A 10 credit module typically represents 100 hours of work. One year of study consists of 120 credits made up of modules worth 10 or 20 credits. All our BA degrees are of three years duration.
Career destinations
As a graduate of the School, you will be prepared to work as a designer or manager
in a variety of contexts, including the media, marketing, manufacturing, retailing,
and academic research. Career choices range from design and trend forecasting,
product development, and corporate communications, to fashion and fabric design,
textile and fashion buying, and advertising.
Work experience
If you wish to gain direct experience relating to your chosen career, you may
extend your course to gain a year’s work experience in industry, to
take place after year 2.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements are stated for each course and are typically
given as A levels. However, other equivalent qualifications are also considered.
Foundation courses in art and design are welcomed, but are not a requirement
for entry. Applicants without standard entry requirements may be invited
to attend for interview and to show their portfolio of work. Admissions
tutors will consider the candidate’s experience, skills and knowledge in relation to the academic and practical demands of the course. We particularly welcome applications from candidates of 21 years and over, and where appropriate will interview those with an Access qualification in Art & Design. The experience of mature students may provide an acceptable alternative to academic qualifications. Where this is so, admissions tutors will require evidence of the candidate’s preparation for, and ability to succeed on, the degree course.
Applying to study in the School of Design Applications for any undergraduate course should be made through UCAS, Rosehill, New Barn Lane,Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3LZ. You canobtain a UCAS application form from your school,
college, or careers adviser. International students may wish to consult with a representative at their local British Council office.
The School of Design bases its offer of a place on careful consideration of information provided in the UCAS application form. Pre-A level qualifications, including GCSEs; your personal statement, and academic reference are all of importance. Good performance at A level (or equivalent) is regarded as essential. Interviews and portfolio viewings are held for Route A and B Contemporary Art Practice candidates, and Route B Textile Design candidates only. Applicants are strongly recommended to apply to the School through Route A for Fashion Design and Graphic and Communication Design. Applicants for Textile Design and Contemporary Art Practice may apply through Route B, though we recommend earlier application through Route A. Please check the UCAS course codes heading each subject entry in this brochure. The University of Leeds’ UCAS code is L23.
Open Day visits
If we offer you a place, you will be invited to attend one of our School open
days, where you will have the opportunity to find out more about our courses
and facilities. If you want to find out more about our courses prior to application,
you are welcome to attend one of these events, which include presentations
about our different degrees and a tour of the School. You will find the dates
of scheduled events on our news page or
by phoning 0113 343 3700.
