MS/MSc in Global Textile Design

Students from the U.S.:

For U.S. based applicants, a minimum of 3.0 GPA (or equivalent) undergraduate degree in a related design subject (Textile, fashion, graphic, interior design or fine art)

Students from the UK:

2:1 Undergraduate Degree or above (or equivalent) in a related design subject (Textile, fashion, graphic, interior design or fine art)

Students from other International Locations:

Undergraduate degree or above (or equivalent) in a related design subject (Textile, fashion, graphic, interior design or fine art)

Any graduates with work or project experience in a design related professional practice will also be considered. In addition to meeting the required academic levels of achievement, students will need to demonstrate an ability to speak, read and write in English at level IELTS 6.5 or its equivalent.

Applicants must submit the following for consideration:

• A design portfolio
• A one-page written statement of intent
• Two letters of recommendation
• All previous transcripts

This is an 18-month program (Fall semester, Spring semester, Summer — internship, Fall semester).

You would be eligible to convert to Thomas Jefferson University’s MS in Textile Design program, which is a 2-year program based in Philadelphia.

The initial Fall semester is held in Philadelphia. The first half of Spring semester is also in Philadelphia, while the second half of Spring semester is in Scotland. The summer internships may occur at various locations globally. The final semester is in Scotland. Additionally, within each semester there will be extensive travel to important design trade fairs and to textile studios, manufacturers and showrooms.  

Yes, with successful completion of this joint degree program, you will be awarded degrees from both TJU and HWU, as well as a certificate stating the joint nature of the program.  

The comprehensive tuition fee covers your programmatic tuition as well as travel within the courses (e.g. to trade shows).  

Please see our Financial Aid website for information on some funding sources.

In addition to the cost of room and board, you should also anticipate purchasing books, supplies and materials as required within courses and as needed to fulfill your individual design directions. You also are responsible for airfare to and in between TJU to HWU, as well as travel that you choose to undertake between semesters, such as travel for your summer internship.

 At this time of growing interest in design sustainability and the think global/live local movement, Global Textile Design focuses on designing for the international market where people want to understand the heritage of products. Artisanal roots, ethical sourcing and leveraging design archives for inspiration, blend in analog and digital technologies in this program. The slowness of craft processes is celebrated for the resultant depth, refinement and the presence of the hand. This program advances the incredible textile design legacy of Thomas Jefferson University and Heriot-Watt University, marrying them on the global stage. As such, internships at top industry partners are an inherent part of Global Textile Design M.S., as are immersive experiences at premiere international trade events.

The MS/MSc in Global Textile Design is a joint degree program with students benefitting from the knowledge, experience and facilities, being awarded degrees from both of these renowned institutions. This is a full time, 18-month program that involves travel within courses and also between institutions. The program focuses on artisanal heritage, design sustainability and entrepreneurship. 

The MS in Textile Design at Jefferson has a strong history in the US textile industry. Students may join as part time or full-time students. The heart of the curriculum is the integrative and collaborative Graduate Studio sequence, in which students participate in interdisciplinary projects focused on turning innovative ideas into original products.