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
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Draft patterns with an eye to fit and function
- Plan and execute garment construction
- Develop a creative vision in design
- Engage in real-world business environments
- Practice the art of communication
- Demonstrate professional excellence
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, and videos
- 120-hour industry practicum
Admission requirements
Admission is a competitive selection based on the following criteria:
- Grade 12 graduation, or equivalent
- English 12 with a C grade, or equivalent
- Letter of Intent of 500 words or less
- Portfolio:
- Two pieces of original artwork
- Sketchbook including a minimum of 20 fashion-related drawings
- Two sewn items
- Interview with the selection committee
VCC recognizes that some applicants may not possess a detailed portfolio or sewing experience. A demonstrated interest in fashion through a hobby, education, portfolio, or work experience is 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 before starting the program.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading, university transfer, or English as a Second Language courses.
Recommended characteristics
- Imagination and creativity
- A good aesthetic sense
- Comfort with a fast-paced environment
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- The ability to handle criticism
- The ability to work well with a wide variety of people
- Motivation, curiosity, and a research-oriented approach
- Some sewing skills
- General knowledge of fashion designers and styles
Fees and other costs
Tuition deposit: $10,600 ($10,000 non-refundable). Tuition deposits are usually payable within three weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.
| Fee description | Fee amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $145 | |
| Tuition | $37,370 | |
| College initiative | $159 | |
| Campus resource | $374 | |
| Materials | $555 | Not including textbooks |
| Student Union | $434 | |
| Medical and Dental | $570 | |
| Temporary Medical Insurance | $149 | |
| U-Pass | $1,126 | |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $40,927 |
* Tuition and other fees are approximate and subject to increase up to 5% per year. Students will be required to pay increased rates if the fees change at any time during the period of enrolment in the program. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable.
Fees listed are for international students. For domestic programs, visit vcc.ca.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's international refund policy.