Kingston University doesn't get enough credit as one of the finest fashion schools in London. While the university teaches a lot of other important fields, it has still made a name for itself as a great institution for studying fashion. The school offers a myriad of great courses related to industry, touching on design, business, media, and more. No matter which part of fashion you want to be in, you'll find a program that's just for you at Kingston University. It also helps that many of the school's graduates have gone on to work in major fashion companies around the world.
Source: Kingston University
History of Kingston University
If you would compare what Kingston University is now to how it was back in its early days, you'd almost see two different institutions. The university was founded as Kingston Technical Institute in 1899 and focused on chemistry, construction, and healthcare. In 1917, Gipsy Hill College opened, becoming one of the first teacher training schools in
London. And in 1930, the Kingston School of Art started, eventually becoming the art department of the university where you'll find the fashion program. So through various incarnations, Kingston University became the prestigious higher educational institution it is today.
What Does Kingston University Look Like?
Though the university has various campuses throughout the different
neighborhoods in London, the one on Grange Road is where you'll find the art department. Though the university has a long history, its arts campus looks as contemporary as the industry itself. Housed in a modern, symmetric building, the school offers ample areas for its design students. You'll find big studios, spacious ateliers, standard classrooms, and more. True to its cause, it has more than enough room for students to go all out with their designs, show them off in impressive exhibitions, and even hold fashion shows too.
Source: Kingston University Facebook Page
The Kingston University Student Body
It's no surprise that Kingston University has the largest student body among the various
fashion schools in London. The higher educational institution has such a diverse range of programs, so it makes sense that it welcomes over 18,200 students per year. Naturally, this includes both new enrollees and returning students who have yet to graduate. Some of them also include part-time students who are working and studying at the same time. And in terms of its international enrollees, they make up almost 5,000 of the over 18,000 student body.
Kingston University's Best Programs and Courses
Kingston University has a more limited fashion program compared to other
fashion schools around the world, be they in London or abroad. But that doesn't mean it's any less than what those schools offer. Its Bachelor of Arts in Fashion, for example, covers all of the basics that any beginner in fashion needs to know. There's also the Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Promotion and Communication, a great program for those who want to study to become fashion journalists, PR, and more. And for its Master's program, the school's unique Sustainable Fashion program is worth checking out.
Source: Kingston University Facebook Page
Kingston University’s Prerequisites
As Kingston University is one of the
top universities in London, its prerequisites are understandably high. To apply for its BA in Fashion, you need a Level 3 qualification in arts-related subjects (A-levels, BTEC Diploma, Access Diploma, IB Diploma, etc.), preferably a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. For international students, you'll need at least an overall 6.0 score on Academic IELTS (International English Language Testing System). If you're applying for its MA in Fashion program, you need at least a BA Honours degree in design/textiles. Don't forget about your well-curate portfolios to accompany your application too!
How Much Does It Cost to Study at Kingston University?
One thing to know about higher educational institutions in London, they're fairly expensive and have different prices for UK students and international students. Overall, Kingston University imposes tuition fees that range from a minimum of £9,000.00 to a maximum of about £21,000.00 per year. The fees for international students are often higher, and these don't include student visa fees, accommodations, and more. Fortunately, it's fairly easy to get financial aid as long as you're eligible for it.
Where is Kingston University in The City?
As already mentioned, Kingston University's art school is located on Grange Road, best known for its proximity to Knights Park. Specifically, the campus is built along the banks of Hogsmill River, so it's in a considerable distance from livelier parts of the city. Nevertheless, the big campus gives more than enough space for the design classes. As for where you should stay, it's better to
rent a London luxury apartment in other areas. Fortunately, Grange Road is not that difficult to reach via public transport.
Source: Kingston University Facebook Page
Kingston University has one of the best fashion programs out of any higher educational institution in London. The school is one of the best training grounds for future fashion professionals, whether they're designers, businessmen, journalists, stylists, and the like.
