University of the Arts London (UAL), BA (Hons), Fashion Buying and Merchandising

BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising is situated in the School of Management and Science, which is a member of the Association of Business Schools. It is a highly specialised course designed for individuals who want to work in the fashion industry in the areas of buying and / or merchandising. The course is situated in the fashion business programme and facilitates your understanding of the structure of the global fashion market, trend research, design and product development, garment sourcing, supply chain management, range planning and distribution, visual communication, sales analysis and profit management. You will consider how the strategic contribution of buying and merchandising to the long term development of a fashion business works through the inclusion of internationalisation, sustainability, customer enhancement, business strategy, leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The course explores all levels of the market from value orientated retailers to luxury brands. You will learn the importance of developing fashion awareness and business acumen through the analysis of buying and merchandising practice within both established and new and emerging organisations. The strategic relationship between a fashion business and its customers will be explored, and you will discover how a business can develop through establishing different retail formats and entering new markets. You will have the opportunity to place your practice in context through theoretical, historical and professional study. There are opportunities for collaborative projects with other students in the fashion business programme where you will gain industry relevant knowledge and practice by working with a prestigious company. National and international industry professionals interact with the course on projects, as visiting speakers, and through industrial visits. The opportunity for a placement year between the second and final year of the course enhances the employability of students through offering valuable experience and contacts within the industry. LCF Careers offer support throughout the course on increasing your career profile, and, through First Move, continue support after graduation.