University of Westminster

The University of Westminster (UoW) is a public university based in London, United Kingdom.  Founded in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, it is one of Britain’s oldest higher education institutions and was the first polytechnic to open in London.  The polytechnic became the University of Westminster in 1992.  UoW has its main campus in Regent Street in central London, with additional campuses in Fitzrovia, Marylebone and Harrow.

UoW has a student population of around 19,000 students.  It offers over 100 full-time undergraduate programmes and almost 90 postgraduate programmes to students through three Colleges and twelve Schools.

UoW’s fashion department is ranked among the best in the world, 20th according to CEOWORLD Magazine 2020. The University is also ranked 23rd in the “Art and Design” subject area in Complete Univeristy Guide 2021.

UoW provides a rounded, practical education to give students the skills they need for a successful career or for further study.  The University’s fashion programmes are tailored to meet the changing needs of the fashion industry.  Its students benefit from close connections with leading industry professionals and gain the inside knowledge needed to succeed in the fashion business.  Notable alumni include Vivienne Westwood, Stuart Vevers – Executive Creative Director of Coach, and Christopher Bailey – former President and Chief Creative Officer of Burberry.

Programme Overview
Programme Introduction

This Fashion Buying Management programme aims to develop you with the academic, aesthetic, practical and commercial skills required for the fashion buying role. You will be equipped for careers in product development and supply chain management, brand management, wholesale, trend forecasting, E-commerce, retail management and marketing roles. 

Modules

Assessment

Report, negotiation, individual and group presentation.

Entry Requirements

Holders of one of the following VTC Higher Diplomas (HD) programme:

• HD in Fashion Branding and Buying

Applicants with an alternative qualification deemed equivalent to a UK Level 5 qualification in a cognate discipline will be subject to a review of the applicant's academic qualification as well as the prior professional experience.

Interview

Applicants with alternative qualifications and are shortlisted will be invited for an interview to determine their abilities to undertake the Programme.  The admission interview will be conducted by SHAPE interview panel with final approval made by UoW.  In addition, applicants would be expected to submit a written personal statement in 300 - 400 words which outlines their reasons for undertaking the programme.

English Proficiency Requirements

• An English proficiency level at IELTS 6.0 in each element; or equivalent.
• Graduates of VTC HD are exempted from the English Language requirements.
• Applicants holding post-secondary qualifications taught and assessed in English will be considered to have met the English language requirements for entry to the top-up programme.