Heriot-Watt School of Textiles and Design

Summary

The Heriot-Watt School of Textiles and Design, established in 1883 in Galashiels, Scotland, is among the world’s oldest institutions dedicated to textile education. Now part of Heriot-Watt University, it offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in textile and fashion disciplines. The school is renowned for its strong industry connections, innovative research, and a legacy of producing graduates who excel in the global textile and design sectors.

History

The origins of the School trace back to 1883 when the Galashiels Manufacturer’s Corporation initiated classes in weaving, dyeing, and chemistry to train workers for the local textile industry. These classes laid the groundwork for what would become a significant educational institution in textile design.

In 1968, the institution was formally recognised as the Scottish College of Textiles. During this period, it expanded its curriculum and facilities, establishing itself as a leading centre for textile education and research. In 1998, the Scottish College of Textiles merged with Heriot-Watt University, forming the School of Textiles and Design. This merger combined the College’s expertise in textile education with Heriot-Watt’s strengths in science and engineering, creating a unique interdisciplinary environment.

The early 2000s saw the School expand its offerings to include postgraduate programmes and establish research centres focusing on areas such as smart textiles and sustainable design. This period marked a significant growth in the School’s international reputation. Throughout the 2010s, the School gained global recognition for its innovative approach to textile education and design. It became known for integrating traditional techniques with modern technologies, preparing students for the evolving demands of the textile industry.

In recent years, the School has continued to excel in both education and research. It has strengthened its industry collaborations, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience. The School remains at the forefront of textile and design education, adapting to the changing needs of the global industry. Looking ahead, the School aims to further enhance its global presence and continue its tradition of excellence in textile and design education. Plans include expanding research initiatives, increasing industry partnerships, and offering new programmes that address emerging trends in the textile sector.

Top Courses

The School offers diverse undergraduate courses, including BA (Hons) Design for Textiles (Fashion, Interior, Art). This programme combines traditional textile techniques with contemporary design practices, preparing students for careers in various design sectors. BA (Hons) Fashion Branding and Promotion equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the competitive fashion industry and BSc (Hons) Fashion Technology integrates technology with fashion design, covering areas such as garment production and textile innovation.

At the postgraduate level, the School offers MA Fashion and Textiles Design. This programme encourages creative exploration and innovation in textile design, with a focus on sustainability and industry relevance. MSc Fashion and Textiles Management prepares students for leadership roles in the fashion and textiles industry and MSc Design Management focuses on the strategic management of design processes, preparing graduates for roles in design leadership and innovation.

Vision

The founder’s vision for the School was to provide practical education in textile-related disciplines, addressing the needs of the local textile industry. This vision laid the foundation for an institution that would blend academic rigor with industry relevance. Over the years, the School has embraced innovation, integrating new technologies and sustainable practices into its curriculum. This commitment ensures that students are equipped with the skills needed to lead in a rapidly evolving industry. The School’s vision extends beyond local boundaries, aiming to provide students with a global perspective. Through international collaborations and diverse student cohorts, it prepares graduates to succeed in the global textile and design markets.

Key Team

• Professor Julian Malins: Executive Dean

• Dr. Lisa MacIntyre: Associate Professor and Head of Discipline – Fashion and Textiles

• Fiona Pankhurst: Assistant Professor in Woven Textile Design

• Dr. Christine Taylor: Teaching Fellow (PT) CAD

• Ms. Judith Scott: Lecturer in Clothing, Fashion and Design

Job Integration Rate

Heriot-Watt University boasts strong employability outcomes. According to the 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey, 83.7% of Heriot-Watt undergraduates secured high-skilled positions within 15 months of completing their studies. The School’s close ties with industry partners further enhance job prospects for its graduates. Collaborations with leading companies provide students with valuable networking opportunities and practical experience. Additionally, the School’s focus on innovation and sustainability aligns with current industry trends, making its graduates highly attractive to employers seeking forward-thinking professionals.

Awards and Recognition

In 1989, the council for the National Academic Awards recommended that the accreditation of the college’s degree programmes should be transferred to Heriot-Watt University. From then on Heriot-Watt degrees were awarded. The following merger of the Scottish College of Textiles with Heriot Watt University in 1997 heralded the new beginnings for the School of Textiles and Design. In 2022, the School was named Fashion University of the Year at the Scottish Fashion Association Awards and recieved the Cultural Enterprise Award in 2010. Projects such as the “Advanced Charging System for ‘Feel the Warmth'” funded by the Scottish Funding Council in 2017 demonstrate the School’s leadership in textile technology research.

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