DIPLOMA FASHION
DESIGN & CREATIVE ARTS
Program Duration: 2 years (84weeks)
Prices: Domestic $36,000.00
Prices: International $39,000.00
Co-op: 3 years
Prices: Domestic $37,350.00
Prices: International $39,000.00
Location: 1888 West 1st Ave
Start Dates: January, May, September.
Your Instructors: Melissa McSorley, Julie Berg, Magali Blanc
Program Overview
Master the technical skills and creative tools you need to pursue a successful career in today’s fast-growing, competitive global fashion business. Our workshop-based Diploma in Fashion Design is taught by industry experts, along with special guest speakers, who share their expertise in various aspects of the industry, including:
- Visual Design
- Garment Construction
- Apparel Supply Chain Management
- Business Management
- Merchandising
- Fashion Marketing
- Fashion Media
Our fashion design diploma course equips students with the practical skills and knowledge required to thrive in the fashion world. Whether you aim to work for established brands or start your own line, our diploma in fashion design course will set you up for success.
Why Choose Our Diploma in Fashion Design?
Our diploma fashion design program is designed for those who want a hands-on, immersive learning experience. Students benefit from a mix of practical workshops and theoretical lessons, gaining a well-rounded education in fashion design diploma courses. From visual design to garment construction and business management, this course prepares you for every aspect of the fashion industry.
For those seeking flexibility, we also offer a fashion design diploma online option. This allows learners to pursue their studies remotely, making it easier to balance education with other commitments. Our diploma in fashion design course covers the same extensive curriculum, ensuring students receive a high-quality education whether they study on-campus or online.
Develop Your Skill
Students have the flexibility to choose four core certificates along with two additional certificates from a selection of electives, allowing for a customized learning experience that suits their career aspirations.
Core Certificates
- Fashion Design
- Pattern Making & Garment Assembly
- Product & Manufacturing
- Fashion Marketing Electives
- Gerber Pattern Making & Grading
- Couture Pattern Making
- Technical Pattern Making
- Costume for TV and Film
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our fashion design diploma program are equipped to pursue various roles within the fashion industry, such as:
Fashion Designer
Pattern Maker
Fashion Marketing Specialist
Product Developer
Retail Buyer
These positions span industries from luxury fashion and retail to costume design for film and television. Our Co-op option further enhances employability by providing paid work experience, helping students build a strong portfolio before graduation.
Program Timeline
Course Timeline
Option 1: One year program
Program duration: 42 weeks - 840 hrs.
Terms: 3 (14 weeks each)
Hours per week: 20
Option 2: Two year program
Program duration: 84 weeks - 1680 hrs.
Terms: 6 (14 weeks each)
Hours per week: 20
Option 3: Three year program-with co-op
Program Duration: 126 weeks- 2520 hrs.
Terms: 6 (14 weeks each)
Our fashion design diploma program with a Co-op option offers paid work experience, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings and build a competitive portfolio before graduation.
| Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|
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| Term 4 | Term 5 | Term 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Fashion Design Illustration & Creative Direction - Elective | Patter Making & Assembling Techniques - Elective | Product Development Production & Sourcing - Elective |
Diploma Fashion Design, Illustration & Creative Design
With Co-Op (Paid work experience)
Develop your skills
Master the technical skills and creative tools you need to pursue a successful career in today’s fast-growing, competitive global fashion business. Our workshop-based fashion design diploma is taught by industry experts (plus a few big name guests) who’ll share their experience in:
- Visual Design
- Garment Construction
- Apparel Supply Chain Management
- Business Management
- Merchandising
- Fashion Marketing
- Fashion Media
Structure
Choose four core certificates, plus two other certificates from the following electives:
Admission Requirements
To apply for our fashion design diploma course, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- High school graduation or equivalent, or mature student status (19+)
- Admissions interview (in person or via Skype) with the Dean or Director of Admissions
- A Letter of Intent describing your career goals (minimum 250 words)
- English Proficiency at a B2 level (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL 57 internet-based, 63 computer-based, or FCE Exam), if English is not the first language or previous education was not in English
- A portfolio containing 8-12 art pieces created by the applicant, submitted digitally
Course Timeline
Option 3: Three year program with Co-op
Program duration: 126 weeks - 2,520 hrs.
Program duration: Co-op 840 hrs.
Terms: 9 (14 weeks each)
Hours per week: 20
Meet your professors
Julie Berg
Julie Berg brings 25 years of forward-thinking fashion design and energy-fuelled marketing talent to the table. A product development specialist for both retail and private labels, she’s crafted contemporary designer sportswear and accessories collections for small-sized independent retailers and big brands alike.
Melissa McSorley
Following in her mother and grandmother’s footsteps, Melissa chose a career in the fashion industry and has been teaching for the last three years. She is a graduate from the Art Institute of Vancouver’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program. After a successful pattern making internship while in her second-to-last quarter, Melissa started working in the industry three months before graduation. Since graduation, Melissa has been building her skill set in contract pre-production manufacturing, wearing many hats. She also works with her own clients as a seamstress, doing alterations and one-of-a-kind projects.
Magali Blanc
Following my bachelor's degree, I studied fashion design in Paris for four years. After graduating, I gained valuable experience as an intern at Vivienne Westwood in London and Vanessa Bruno in Paris, where I specialized in high-end fabrics and knitwear collections. Subsequently, I worked with luxury ready-to-wear brands in Paris, notably contributing to Maje Paris from its inception to significant expansion. During my time at Maje, I managed various product categories, collaborated with fabric mills and suppliers worldwide, and developed a design approach focused on luxury and strategic positioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions, we have answers.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for in our FAQ section below, use our online submission form.
This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
The Cut Design Academy is designated with PTIB
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The program is available in three different formats:
One-year program: 42 weeks (840 hours)
Two-year program: 84 weeks (1,680 hours)
Three-year program with Co-op: 126 weeks (2,520 hours), including paid work experience
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The program is led by experienced professionals, including:
Melissa McSorley
Julie Berg
Magali Blanc
Each instructor brings extensive industry experience and expertise, providing students with valuable insights into the world of fashion design.
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The program has three intake periods each year: January, May, and September.
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The program is offered at 1888 West 1st Ave.
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To apply for the Fashion Design & Creative Arts Diploma, candidates must meet the following requirements:
High school graduation or equivalent, or mature student status (19+)
An admissions interview (in person or via Skype) with the Dean or Director of Admissions
A Letter of Intent detailing your career goals (minimum 250 words)
English proficiency at a B2 level (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL 57 internet-based, 63 computer-based, or FCE Exam), if English is not the first language or previous education was not in English
A digital portfolio of 8-12 art pieces created by the applicant
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No specific administrative fee has been mentioned. Please contact the admissions office for details on any additional fees that may apply.
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While the tuition fee covers most program costs, there may be additional expenses for materials or supplies required for specific courses. For more details, please consult the admissions office.
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The tuition fees for domestic students are as follows:
One-year program: Contact admissions for pricing details
Two-year program: $36,000
Three-year program with Co-op: $37,350
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International students pay the following tuition fees:
One-year program: Contact admissions for pricing details
Two-year program: $39,000
Three-year program with Co-op: $39,000
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The three-year program with Co-op costs $37,350 for domestic students.
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The Fashion Design & Creative Arts Diploma covers a comprehensive range of topics to prepare students for various roles in the fashion industry, including:
Fashion Design Illustration
Creative Direction
Pattern Making
Assembling Techniques
Product Development & Production
Sourcing
Fashion Marketing
Branding
Elective Courses (e.g., Costume Design, Couture Techniques)
Capsule Collection Development
Professional Development
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Throughout the program, students will develop essential skills such as:
Fashion design and illustration techniques
Garment construction and pattern-making skills
Knowledge of product development and manufacturing processes
Marketing, branding, and business management
Creative direction and design thinking
Professional skills, including portfolio development and presentation
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Graduates of the Fashion Design & Creative Arts Diploma program are prepared for various roles, including:
Fashion Designer
Pattern Maker
Product Developer
Fashion Marketer
Creative Director
Brand Manager
Costume Designer for TV and Film
These career paths span diverse industries such as luxury fashion, retail, costume design, and fashion marketing.
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The program is structured to meet industry standards, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. For specific accreditation details, please reach out to the admissions office.
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To speak with a student advisor, you can contact the school directly via phone or email, which are available on the program’s website. Advisors can provide information about courses, application procedures, and other inquiries.
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For more information, visit the official program website or contact a student advisor to schedule a consultation. You can also request a brochure or attend an information session to learn more about the curriculum, instructors, and career prospects.