International Textile Business and Innovation

Mode of attendance: Full-time

Duration: 1 year

Start dates: September & January

Course overview

In the contemporary, often high-tech, world of textiles and across all spheres of industry and commerce, the ‘knowledge workers’ - the professionals, are recognised as critically important to the success of organisations. High calibre technologists and managers are in constant demand, working as employees, advisors, consultants and analysts.

The University of Bolton’s MSc in International Textile Business and Innovation provides both the knowledge and the skills of research, analysis and critical thought which differentiate the professional from all others. It is an industry-focused postgraduate qualification designed to give you the edge in a fast moving, demanding and exciting market place. It also demonstrates your commitment to continuing self-development.

About the course

Students on the MSc International Textile Business and Innovation programme come to Bolton from all over the world. They come to Bolton, a town synonymous with textile production since the early days of the industrial revolution, and a University with an international reputation for teaching and research in textiles. All benefit from the wide mix of students, ideas and experiences.

Interaction in class and socially will greatly enhance your understanding of the wider world in which textile products and processes play a part.

What you will learn

Our MSc programme is both academically rigorous and practical. As with all University of Bolton courses it is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it reflects the latest thinking and research. We use progressive teaching methods which challenge you – giving you the knowledge and skills to cope in a fast moving market and a changing world.

A key feature of our teaching and learning strategy is to support your development as an independent learner. The emphasis is on personal study, research and individualising module content to address your personal areas of interest within the field of study.

What you will study

You will study the following modules:

• Textile Innovations (30 credits);
• International Business for Textiles (30 credits);
• Product Development Management (30 credits);
• Research Methods (30 credits);
• Independent Study (30 credits);
• Dissertation (60 credits).

For a postgraduate certificate (PgCert), you must successfully complete two modules (60 credits). For a postgraduate diploma (PgDip), you must successfully complete four modules (120 credits). For a master of science (MSc), you must successfully complete four modules and a dissertation (180 credits).

Textile Innovations (30 credits)
You will develop your knowledge and skills in the application of new developments within the textile field. The module will cover issues such as material availability, sources of materials, market trends and performance characteristics. The latest innovations in apparel, household textiles and technical textiles will be examined. You will also develop an understanding of environmental issues and sustainability in relation to the textile industry.

International Business for Textiles (30 credits)
You will develop an appreciation of the global business environment for textiles and clothing. The issues involved in sourcing of textile and clothing products and the major variations that occur across international boundaries will be explored. You will also develop the ability to recognise and deal with similarities and dissimilarities between international and domestic marketing of textile and clothing products, particularly those relating to cultural differences. A range of international marketing strategies will be explored through the use of case studies, emphasising the differences between European and other markets.

Product Development Management (30 credits)
You will study the role of marketing, manufacturing, finance, and sales in the product management process. This module uses a series of case studies to develop your knowledge of aspects of product introduction, followed by formalised instruction and an ongoing simulation of the product production process, working in small groups. Some formal lectures and guidance will be given, but substantial group activities will ensure that your learning is enhanced mainly by practical examples. Use of appropriate software for planning and control will be introduced.

Independent Study (30 credits)
You may normally undertake one module by means of independent study. In conjunction with a supervisor, you will formulate a specific set of aims and objectives. By completing the module you will foster and develop the skills, techniques and discipline necessary for independent enquiry. This will enable you to gain experience in research and problem solving in either theoretical or applied contexts or in a combination of both fields. The module will expand your personal knowledge in a chosen area of study and develop the skills of synthesising and critically analysing ideas, theories or data.

Research Methods (30 credits)
This module is designed to provide a foundation for the Dissertation module. It will introduce you to alternative approaches to research in textile engineering. It will also provide you with the opportunity to develop skills in research planning and organisation, structuring, literature reviewing, critical analysis, qualitative and quantitative techniques, computer applications, writing and presentation.

Dissertation (60 credits)
This double module aims to engender a constructively inquisitive attitude and to develop a high level of competence in chosen forms of research methodology while promoting an understanding of the role of research in the manufacturing, design, commercial, service or retail sectors of the textile industry. You will develop, experience and critically apply a wide range of transferable and subject specific skills and activities while undertaking a piece of small-scale research. This will enable you to broaden and deepen your current subject expertise and your knowledge in your chosen topic.

The Dissertation module involves a major research project and is a key element of the programme. This is a challenging, yet highly rewarding part of the course. It allows you to apply theory, originality and creativity to a topic of your own choosing. Full tutorial support is provided for the duration of the project. You will benefit from the small group learning and individual support that set the University of Bolton apart.

Special features

• Postgraduate studies are supported by the University through a training programme, which includes topics such as writing for publication, presentation skills and stress management.
• The town of Bolton has a long history of excellence and innovation in textiles; so too does the University. Teaching staff are drawn from industry and academia, with specialist knowledge across all areas of textile engineering.
• The course makes extensive use of the Innovation Factory on campus, which contains a full range of industry standard equipment for the manufacture and evaluation of textile products.
• You will also benefit from external visits to broaden your outlook on the textile industry. These visits include trips to manufacturing companies and international trade shows.

Careers and professional development

The technological and commercial knowledge and skills of our graduates are highly valued by textile companies. Recent graduates have gone into merchandising, production management, new product development and quality assurance. Recent graduates have gone onto work for industry leaders including DuPont, Airbags International, Levi’s and Milliken.

On successful completion of the MSc programme many graduates choose to continue their studies by registering for a PhD.

On graduation you will also become a member of the University's alumni association. You will be a lifelong member of the University's community, able to access careers information and guidance, the library and professional periodicals, as well as a range of other facilities.

Professional recognition

MSc Textile Engineering (the former name for this course) is recognised by the Textile Institute as fulfilling the academic requirements for applicants to the Associateship of the Textile Institute (ATI).

We are seeking to extend this recognition to MSc International Textile Business and Innovation as soon as possible.

Entry requirements

You should have an honours degree (or equivalent), or professional qualifications in a textiles, clothing, materials, technology, physical science or engineering related subject.

Your application will also be considered if you have alternative equivalent qualifications with extensive relevant work experience.

If you have not studied your previous qualifications in English a TOEFL score of at least 575 (written)/230 (computer-based) or an academic IELTS score of at least 6.5 will be required.

We are more than happy to have an informal chat with you about this course, either over the phone or in person. If you wish to meet in person please contact the programme leader to arrange a mutually convenient time. (While we reserve the right to interview it is not our usual practice for this course.)

How to apply

Please apply directly to the University of Bolton using the standard application form.

Please visit our 'how to apply for a taught postgraduate course' web page for details.

Further Information

For an informal discussion and further details about the course please contact:

Trevor Rowe (Programme Leader)
Tel: +44 (0)1204 903105
E-mail:T.Rowe@bolton.ac.uk

For general information about the university and how to apply please contact:

Enquiry Team (Student Services)
Tel: +44 (0)1204 903903
Email:enquiries@bolton.ac.uk