Overview
Expand your creative and technical skills for the fashion and apparel industry by gaining hands-on experience in conception, design, production, and sales through a self-directed garment project.
What you will learn
- Fashion production
- Technical illustration (Illustrator, Photoshop)
- Pattern drafting
- Computer aided drafting (CAD) and digitization with Gerber
- Draping
- Knit garments
- Lined dresses
- Office attire
- Pattern grading and size ranges
- Niche body types
- Fabric properties, testing, and sourcing
- Textile industry ethics
- Fashion industry issues and trends
- Fashion history and culture
- Precision drawing
- Professional hand and machine sewing
- Textile print and dye techniques
- Garment construction
- Creative vision
- Branding and marketing
- Final runway collection or product line
- Manufacturing specifications
- Business skills
- Overseas production
- Website design and e-commerce
- Professional communication
What to expect
- Mandatory attendance
- Practical labs and demonstrations
- Team activities
- Computer work
- Field trips
- Independent learning
- Student presentations
- Individual and group projects
- Written exams
- Research assignments
- Self-assessments
- Portfolio creation
- Lectures, seminars, videos
- 120-hour industry practicum
Admission requirements
Admission is a competitive selection based on the following criteria:
- Grade 12 graduation, or equivalent
- English 12 (C grade), or equivalent
- Letter of Intent (500 words or less)
- Two Letters of Reference
- Portfolio:
- Two pieces of original artwork
- Sketch book including a minimum of 20 fashion-related drawings
- Two sewn items
- Interview with selection committee
VCC recognizes that some applicants may not possess a detailed portfolio or sewing experience. A demonstrated interest in fashion through hobby, education, portfolio, or work experience are acknowledged and seriously considered by the department. These applicants will still need to submit all other documentation, participate in an interview, and potentially take sewing and/or drawing courses prior to starting the program.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free in academic upgrading, university transfer or English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses.
Recommended Characteristics
- Imagination and creativity
- A good aesthetic sense
- Comfort with a fast paced environment
- Good communication skills, both verbal and written
- The ability to handle criticism
- The ability to work well with a wide variety of people
- Motivation, curiosity, and research-orientation
- Some sewing skills
- General knowledge of fashion designers and styles
Fees and other costs
Tuition deposit: $1,000 (non-refundable)
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $36 | |
| Tuition | $23,961 | |
| College initiative | $143 | |
| Campus resource | $480 | |
| Materials | $555 | not including textbooks |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $25,220 |
Need help with tuition?
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* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.
