Introducing Our Postgraduate Degree

The Fashion Retail Academy’s first ever postgraduate course, MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications, is now open for applications! 

We spoke to Mark, head of Higher Education at the FRA, about the course, why you should study a postgraduate course and how best to prepare for this level of study.

What do you study on MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications? 

This course will allow you to explore your creativity and develop your theoretical knowledge in fashion marketing and the global marketing industry. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of historic and contemporary marketing theories and practices, as well as learn why luxury brands are successful in a competitive environment.

Mark, our Head of Higher education, said “In the MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications programme, you will delve into various aspects of the global fashion industry with a focus on luxury fashion brands.” 

You’ll complete modules in Global Marketing Planning & Strategy, Marketing Design & Communication, Creative Development Strategy & Process, Advertising Management, and a two-part Final Project. 

“Whether you aspire to work in luxury brand management, creative direction, advertising, or strategy, this degree will open doors to senior roles within leading fashion houses, agencies, or even entrepreneurship in the luxury space. This master’s degree combines critical aspects of management, strategy, creativity, and a deep understanding of the luxury fashion industry.” 

Find out more about the course content here. 

What’s different about a POSTGRADUATE DEGREE at the FRA? 

Mark says, “Our offer is a unique experience, especially in a field like fashion marketing and communications. We embed industry-based learning, and the FRA has strong connections with leading fashion and retail brands, ensuring that your learning is highly relevant to current industry needs. The curriculum is tailored to real-world application, giving you the practical edge required in the international fashion marketing and communications arena.” 

“Our specialisation in Fashion and Retail is unlike traditional universities. The FRA specialises in fashion retail, offering courses that are deeply focused on the business, branding, and operational side of fashion. This means you’re surrounded by like-minded peers and staff who share a specific focus on the fashion industry."

"The FRA's access to industry is unrivalled, we frequently collaborate with industry experts, providing guest lectures, workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities. This access allows you to learn directly from professionals who are at the forefront of the fashion industry." 

"You’ll engage in live projects, case studies, and industry projects, allowing you to apply theoretical concepts to actual business challenges faced by luxury fashion brands," says Mark. "We have smaller class sizes than the large cohorts you would expect at traditional universities, so we offer a more personalised and supportive learning environment. You receive greater access to tutors, allowing for more tailored feedback and guidance as you navigate your MA journey. This is what sets us apart.” 

TIMETABLE

At the Fashion Retail Academy, all of our course timetables are structured over two full days per week, so that you can continue to work or fulfil other commitments while you study. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The entry requirements for the MA programme are an undergraduate degree at 2:2, or equivalent work experience. 

ASSESSMENTS

Our courses are assessed by coursework, including projects, essays and presentations. 

Why should you do a Master's/Postgraduate degree? 

You’ll develop a specific set of advanced skills and gain practical industry insights, as well as increase your employability. Through your research and projects, you'll develop your critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as your personal and professional skills which will boost your career opportunities. You’ll work regularly with your fellow students and faculty, frequently collaborating on group projects and engaging in academic discussions, as well as participate in industry enrichment, giving you the chance the build your network.

How should you prepare to study at postgraduate level? 

Here are Mark’s top tips for preparing for the course: 

1. “You should research your subject thoroughly. A deep level understanding is expected at the master’s level, so start reading key texts, journals, and industry reports related to international fashion marketing, communications, and luxury brand management.”  

2. “Look into major fashion houses, market trends, and recent developments in digital marketing and luxury fashion. This background knowledge will give you a head start in discussions and coursework.” 

3. “Postgraduate courses focus heavily on analysis and critical thinking. You will need to evaluate case studies, develop strategies, and critique existing theories or approaches.”  

4. “Start practicing now by critically reading articles or reports, questioning their methods or conclusions, and thinking about how you would apply their ideas to real-world scenarios, especially in the context of luxury fashion.” 

Our other top tips: 

• Practice writing essays or reports on relevant topics to develop your academic writing skills
• Learn how to analyse data and practice using your findings to demonstrate your ideas
• Stay informed on fashion industry and technology trends 

What’s the difference between an undergraduate and postgraduate degree?  

An undergraduate degree is usually your first degree, and is normally a bachelor's degree (e.g. BA, BSc). They range between 2 years (accelerated) and three years in length and provide a foundation of knowledge in a particular area. Click here for more information about undergraduate degrees at the FRA. 

A postgraduate degree takes place after completion of a bachelor's degree. You can specialise in a specific area and develop your knowledge to an advanced level. Postgraduate qualifications can include master's degrees (such as our MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications), PG certificates, PG diplomas or PhDs. Courses tend to be between one and two years long. 

How can I fund my POSTGRADUATE degree? 

You can either fund your course privately or take out a postgraduate master’s loan to help with course fees and living costs. You can get up to £12,471 (subject to change).  

The course fees for MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications are £9,200 per year (subject to change). Find out more about Fees & Funding here.

Why should I choose the FRA? 

We are an industry-led fashion education provider, currently working with over 250+ fashion and retail brands to both create our courses and provide industry enrichment for our students. As part of your course, you’ll network with industry guest speakers, take part in masterclasses delivered by our brand partners, and attend panel discussions.

Where could a POSTGRADUATE degree take me? 

With the level of skill and knowledge you’ll develop on the programme, you could continue into a career in: 

• Marketing management 
• Global and international trade marketing 
• Campaign marketing management 
• Communications management 

Find out more about our MA International Fashion Marketing & Communications programme here. You can also attend on one of our upcoming open days to find out more about the course and see our new campus facilities.