Stage 1: University Foundation

Portfolio Requirements

Modules

Click below for more information on each module

• Creative Workshop*

  During this module you will develop and demonstrate imaginative and flexible approaches to different art and design techniques. You will develop your ideas within the creative studio environment.

  This module is assessed entirely through the production of a portfolio.

• Critical Thinking*

  You will be introduced to the basic fundamentals of critical thinking. You will learn how to examine and comment on components of an argument, so that you can develop a structured and analytical response.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods: three 1-hour tests in class, and one 2-hour closed book exam.

• Extended Media Experimentation

  You will explore your own ideas while experimenting with processes and techniques and discovering the characteristics and properties of selected media.

  You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:

  • A report of research, experimentation and application
  • A self-reflective journal
  • The presentation of your work

• Information Research, Recording and Responding In Art & Design

  During this module you will learn how to undertake in-depth research, while exploring many ways to record your findings. You will also discover how to respond to problems, enabling you to develop your skills, self-confidence and studio practice.

  There will be three pieces of coursework:

  • A personal statement of intent
  • A final research journal, made up of weekly submissions
  • A final portfolio of art, design and media work – including statements of self-reflection

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication*

  Throughout this module you will learn about:

  • Time management
  • Public speaking techniques
  • Listening skills
  • Appropriate language styles
  • Clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing)
  • The importance of writing style
  • How to create appropriate and effective document layouts
  • Professional communication and presentation
  • Examination techniques and skills
  • How to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences
  • How to work effectively as a team member and as an individual
  • How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion so as to avoid plagiarism

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A research project – referencing a topic and using a variety of techniques and resources
  • An individual presentation
  • Two group presentations
  • A listening assessment
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication & Preparation and Progression in Art and Design

  During this module you will learn about:

  • Techniques and strategies to manage speech anxiety
  • Enhancing your grammar and vocabulary
  • How to think critically under pressure
  • How to research and deliver logical and persuasive communication in a variety of formats
  • Understanding cultural and gender differences
  • Methods for planning, preparing and producing a major art and design project
  • Preparing for exhibition

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • An individual presentation on intent and planning of the final major art project
  • The project itself (40%)
  • Exhibition and presentation of the project

• Knowledge & Understanding Of Creative Practice In Art & Design

  You will develop an understanding of contemporary, cultural, social and historical contexts in art and design. This will help you develop your creative practice and make informed decisions about your pathway choices.

  You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:

  • A research project around contextual influences on art and design practice (50%)
  • A group presentation
  • A self-reflective log

• Mass Communication*

  This module will introduce you to the core concepts and principles relevant to mass communications – including some of the major theories.

  There will be three pieces of coursework:

  • A close analysis of the film Fight Club
  • An analysis of an advertisement from a magazine or newspaper
  • A group presentation

• Media Experimentation in Art and Design

  You will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of media – experimenting with both traditional and contemporary processes and techniques. You will gain an understanding of the potential and limitations of media, using critical review and reflection in the planning and development of your own ideas.

  You will be assessed through your log of experiments and research, and your portfolio of experimental work.

• Personal Combined Experimental Studies In Art & Design

  During this module you will learn about:

  • Exploring and reviewing a range of skills, materials, processes and techniques
  • Reviewing and reflecting on your own work
  • Challenging previous thoughts, ideas and beliefs
  • Health and safety requirements
  • Record-keeping

  You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:

  • A group project around problem-solving, research, experimentation and selection of materials
  • An individual presentation
  • A log of experimentation

^* Additional four modules in the three semester programme.

Stage 2: First Year Degree

Stage 3: Second Year Degree

Stage 4: Final Year Degree

Birmingham City University Degree Pathways

Click below for more information on each pathway

• BA (Hons) Costume Design and Practice

  • You will be learning in The Parkside Building – part of the City Centre Campus – which is fully equipped with industry-specific machinery for all aspects of garment production, as well as photography studios to capture final outcomes.
  • Tutors have industry links with the Royal Shakespeare Company, Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Birmingham Royal Ballet.
  • Former students have gone on to work in roles such as Creative Assistant and Costume Designer.
    Find out more

• BA (Hons) Fashion Branding and Communication

  • There will be the opportunity to visit international fashion cities such as London, Berlin, Copenhagen and New York*.
  • You will have the opportunity to showcase work to industry leaders at events such as Graduate Fashion Week in London.
  • Former students have gone on to work for companies including ASOS and Next, in roles such as PR, marketing, styling and photoshoot production.
    Find out more
    *This would incur an additional cost

• BA (Hons) Fashion Business and Promotion

  • You will work on industry-led briefs, supported by brands such as Selfridges and River Island.
  • There will be opportunities to visit fashion capitals London, Paris, Florence and New York*.
  • Former students have gone on to work in roles such as PR Assistant and Trainee Merchandiser.
    Find out more
    *This would incur an additional cost

• BA (Hons) Fashion Design

  • You will have the chance to complete work placements with companies such as Ted Baker, Paul Smith, Topshop and River Island.
  • You will also have the chance to showcase work to industry leaders at events like Graduate Fashion Week in London.
  • Former students have gone on to work in roles such as Clothing Designer, Textile Designer, Buyer and Procurement Officer.
    Find out more

• BA (Hons) Garment Technology

  • This course has excellent links with international fashion brands including Adidas, Burberry, Abercrombie & Fitch and Karen Millen.
  • You will use industry-standard Gerber pattern-cutting software and gain essential knowledge of global manufacturing.
  • Former students have gone on to work in roles such as Sewing Machinist and Pattern Technologist.
    Find out more

• BA (Hons) Textile Design

  • Birmingham City University’s Faculty of Arts, Design and Media has a dedicated School of Fashion and Textiles.
  • No particular house style is taught, so you will have the creative freedom to embrace both digital technology and traditional craft skills in accordance with your career ambition.
  • Former students have gone on to work for companies such as Alexander McQueen, Liberty London and Paperchase.
    Find out more

Important:

All students accessing the 3D workshops, plaster room, glass room, water-jet cutting room and the kiln room will need to wear safety footwear that has toe caps. Such footwear can be purchased from any safety footwear provider – including Sports Direct – and can be as cheap as £12. The shoes should be S1P and comply with EN 20345.

There is no long-term storage facility for personal items in the workshops, so students are advised to bring the safety footwear with them each day they are accessing the workshops.

Special entry requirements

• Students entering the two-semester Foundation must produce a portfolio.
• Students without an academic qualification in Art and Design must submit a portfolio.