Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design

The Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design is a three-year degree that combines creativity, innovation, and environmental responsibility. It prepares students to design and produce garments using sustainable methods while developing technical, conceptual, and industry-ready skills.

Programme Structure

The programme is structured by three key interrelated strands of content: sustainable fashion research and practice, theoretical studies, and creative enterprise. All technical, theoretical, and professional knowledge and skills inform and are integrated into the practice of designing and creating sustainable and innovative design solutions.

Key Dates

• February 2026 Intake: 16/02/2026

Duration and Location

• Duration: 3 Years (Full-time)
• Available Locations:
  • Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
  • Manukau Campus
  • Wellington Campus

Costs

• Domestic: $8,544 + $300 Student Services Levy
• International: $27,000 + $300 Student Services Levy
• Note: Fees indicated are for the 1st year of study. 2nd and 3rd Year fees may vary. Fees free may apply. All 2026 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.

Programme Overview

The programme redesigns the value of fashion by challenging the conventional ways the industry operates by integrating skills and knowledge of sustainable and innovative design theories and practices to promote learning relevant to the future of sustainable and ethical fashion.

Qualification

• Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design
• NZQA Level 7 (360 credits)

Key Student Information

• NZ Government key information link for students.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this programme will be able to:

• Be eligible for employment in the global fashion industry
• Be positive and creative change instigators
• Understand the urgent need for rapid and positive change
• Be an adaptive and agile creative professional
• Potential career paths include:
  • Fashion Designer
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Fashion Stylist
  • Fashion Marketing
  • Fashion Design Educator
  • Patternmaker
  • Fashion Blogger
  • Costume Wardrobe Assistant
  • Sample Machinist
  • Workroom Assistant

Admission Requirements

Domestic Applicants

• Must have achieved NCEA Level 3 or above and 20 credits at NCEA Level 2 or above, including:
  • NCEA Level 3; 14 credits each in three approved subjects
  • UE Literacy (NCEA Level 2 or above, 10 credits with 5 credits each in reading and writing)
  • UE Numeracy (NCEA Level 1 or above; 10 credits)
• Or have gained one of the following qualifications:
  • New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology qualifications (Level 4)
  • New Zealand Certificate in Fine Arts (Level 4)
  • New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media + Design (Level 4)
  • A New Zealand or overseas qualification assessed to be equivalent to the above by the Programme Head
• Must attend an interview to determine their suitability for the programme
• Must present a Letter of Intent and a portfolio containing between 12 – 24 samples of creative work that reflect skills and potential to successfully complete the programme

International Applicants

• Must turn 18 within their first year of study at Whitecliffe
• Must hold a New Zealand qualification or equivalent to any stated above
• Must meet English language requirements: IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band lower than 5.5, or equivalent
• Must meet New Zealand visa entry requirements

Faculty Members

The faculty includes experienced professionals such as:

• Michelle Wetherell, Programme Head
• Doula Matheos, Programme Lead
• Giles Peterson, Lecturer
• Angela Newson, Lecturer
• Harita Kapur, Lecturer
• Heather Hohenberger, Lecturer
• Lisa Holst, Lecturer
• Pip Stevenson, Lecturer
• SuJin Lim, Lecturer
• Susan Barter, Lecturer
• Tannaz Barkhordari, Lecturer
• Veronica Frankovich, Lecturer
• Nicole van Vuuren, Lecturer
• Denise Callan, Lecturer

FAQ

What is the Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design at Whitecliffe?

The Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design is a three-year degree that combines creativity, innovation, and environmental responsibility.

What will my timetable look like?

Students typically attend classes three to four days per week, depending on their year and level of study. Each timetable includes at least one day free to allow time for part-time work or independent projects.

Are there any exams in this degree?

No. The Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design is 100% coursework-based. Assessment is completed through projects, presentations, and practical work rather than traditional written exams.

Do I need sewing or fashion experience before enrolling?

No prior sewing experience is required. In the first semester of Year 1, you'll be supported to develop foundational technical skills in garment construction, patternmaking, and using industrial machines.

What will I learn during the degree?

You'll explore sustainable design practices, textile innovation, ethical production, and creative design development. The programme emphasises real-world application through studio work, collaboration, and industry projects that connect design with sustainability.

What career opportunities are available after graduating?

Graduates have gone on to launch their own sustainable fashion brands or work in design rooms for major labels. Others have pursued postgraduate study, including Master's programmes at Central Saint Martins in London.

Are there opportunities for internships?

Yes. Students complete industry internships in their final year. Past placements include major fashion brands, providing valuable hands-on experience in professional fashion environments.

Does the course include industry projects or collaborations?

Yes. Whitecliffe students regularly participate in industry-led projects and events, such as the Auckland Art Gallery Young Designer Night and the New Zealand High Commission Matariki Project in India.