Visual Merchandising FdA

About the course

Visual merchandising is a key part of the marketing operation of all major retailers. In department stores and fashion multiples the visual merchandising manager makes sure promotions are consistent throughout the store and its advertising. Visual merchandising managers are responsible for designing and commissioning in-store promotion and display schemes and are experts in how to turn creative ideas into sparkling reality.

You'll develop your design and practical skills to standards that will impress the retailers you deal with, learning to source stunning materials, graphics and equipment to carry out your ideas, and to negotiate with suppliers to get the best deal. You'll work on photo-shoots to promote the latest fashion and home furnishing concepts, develop leadership and management skills to get the best out of your team, and learn to use a range of business and design software.

Why choose this course?

This programme will provide you with:

• the knowledge and skills to embark on a career in visual merchandising;
• opportunities for work-based learning and experience in visual merchandising and spatial design.;
• an opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification in two years of full-time study;

In addition it will develop:

• your creativity and skills in managing commercial design projects;
• your critical and analytical abilities in responding to commercial design briefs;
• your ability to interpret brands in retail and exhibition promotions.

Locations

• Hertford Regional College

Careers

When you successfully complete your Foundation degree, you can choose to start working in the retail sector, or within design studios supplying visual merchandising and exhibition concepts. Alternatively, you can progress to the Third Year of the BA(Hons) Interior and Spatial Design course at the University of Hertfordshire.

Teaching methods

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, small group tutorials, course work and practical assignments. Throughout you are encouraged to undertake independent study to consolidate your learning and to broaden your knowledge and understanding of the subject.

In addition, you will be exposed to the application of Visual Merchandising skills and knowledge in the workplace through work based learning. You will study work based learning modules in year one culminating in a work based learning project negotiated with an employer in year two.

Work Placement

As part of your course, you will also undertake two work placements with a major retailer or design studio where you'll usually be given your own design project to manage.

Fees & funding

Fees 2013

UK/EU Students

Full time: £5,000 for the 2013 academic year

International Students

Discounts are available for International students if payment is made in full at registration

View detailed information about tuition fees

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

How to apply