Fashion School At Toronto Metropolitan University

SUMMARY

The School of Fashion at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), formerly known as Ryerson University, is a leading institution in Canada’s fashion education. With over 35 years of experience, it offers interdisciplinary programs that emphasize inclusive, decolonized, and sustainable perspectives. Recognized among the top 10 colleges shaping the future of fashion by Forbes, the school prepares students to become innovative leaders in the global fashion industry.

HISTORY

Established in 1982 as part of Ryerson University’s Faculty of Communication and Design, the School of Fashion has evolved into a prominent institution for fashion education. In 2022, Ryerson University was renamed Toronto Metropolitan University, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation. The school has a rich history of collaborations with industry leaders and cultural institutions. Notably, it has partnered with organizations like the Toronto Fashion Incubator and the Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute to support emerging designers. These collaborations have facilitated mentorship programs, design competitions, and industry showcases.

Students at the School of Fashion have showcased their work in prestigious events such as Toronto Fashion Week and Graduate Fashion Week in London. These platforms have allowed students to gain international exposure and connect with industry professionals. The school’s curriculum is enriched by the Fashion Research Collection (FRC), a significant archive that includes garments, textiles, and fashion artifacts. The FRC serves as a resource for research and education, reflecting the school’s commitment to preserving fashion history and promoting scholarly inquiry.

Fashion School At Toronto Metropolitan University

Over the years, the School of Fashion has expanded its offerings to include both undergraduate and graduate programs. The Bachelor of Design in Fashion allows students to tailor their education through various concentrations, while the Master of Arts in Fashion provides a critically informed approach to fashion studies. The school’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its initiatives, such as integrating sustainable practices into the curriculum and fostering partnerships with eco-conscious brands. These efforts aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges in the fashion industry.

“The School of Fashion has long been at the heart of Canadian fashion education, nurturing generations of designers, makers, thinkers, and leaders who continue to shape the industry in Canada and internationally,” says Joseph Medaglia, Chair, School of Fashion, Toronto Metropolitan University. “Our work is guided by the principles of Decolonization, Inclusion, Sustainability, and Accessibility. These commitments shape our teaching, research, and partnerships, ensuring that fashion is engaged as both a cultural practice and a global system. By centring diverse worldviews, reimagining fashion’s environmental and social responsibilities, and valuing equitable access and participation, we continue to expand the role of fashion in building more inclusive and sustainable futures.”

TOP COURSES

Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Fashion offers a dynamic Bachelor of Design (B.Des) program renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and global recognition. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity, preparing students to become leaders in the evolving fashion industry. Students can tailor their education through concentrations such as Fashion Design, Fashion Communication, Fashion Studies, Textiles & Material Practices, and Design Leadership, allowing for specialized expertise alongside a comprehensive understanding of fashion theory and practice.

The program’s innovative courses include Digital Patternmaking for Fashion Design, Knitwear Design, and Human-Centered Design, integrating traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology. Fashion Communication courses like Fashion Photography and Typography and Graphic Design focus on visual storytelling and brand strategy. Fashion Studies delves into the social, cultural, and economic implications of fashion, with offerings such as Fashioning Feminism and Black Fashion. Textiles & Material Practices courses explore sustainable and ethical design, including Compassion Couture and Indigenous Craft Practices.

The School of Fashion provides experiential learning opportunities through internships, global exchanges, and access to innovation hubs like the Fashion Zone and Design + Technology Lab. These resources support students in transforming creative ideas into real-world applications. Graduates emerge as skilled professionals equipped to navigate and shape the future of the fashion industry.

VISION

The vision for the School of Fashion at Toronto Metropolitan University is to be a leader in fashion education, fostering an environment where creativity, critical thinking, and inclusivity are paramount. By centering Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour perspectives, the school aims to disrupt traditional fashion narratives and promote a more equitable industry. The school envisions a curriculum that is both flexible and interdisciplinary, allowing students to explore various facets of fashion, from design and technology to business and sustainability. Further, the School of Fashion aspires to be a hub for innovation, where students and faculty collaborate with industry partners to address pressing issues such as environmental sustainability, ethical production, and cultural representation. Through research, creative projects, and community engagement, the school seeks to drive positive change within the fashion industry.

JOB INTEGRATION RATE

Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) School of Fashion offers a Bachelor of Design (BDes) program that emphasizes experiential learning, including a mandatory 400-hour internship. This hands-on approach equips students with practical skills and industry experience, enhancing their employability upon graduation. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and strong industry connections contribute to a high job integration rate for its graduates.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities, the overall employment rate for TMU’s Class of 2021 graduates was 88.2% six months after graduation and 92.5% two years later. While specific data for the fashion program is not provided, these figures reflect the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers. The School of Fashion’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and diverse perspectives further supports graduates in securing positions within the competitive fashion industry.

KEY PEOPLE

• Dr. Ben Barry – Chair of the School of Fashion

• Henry Navarro Delgado – Faculty Member

• Dr. Alison Matthews David – Faculty Member

• Elizabeth Semmelhack – Faculty Member

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

The School of Fashion at Toronto Metropolitan University has received numerous accolades for its contributions to fashion education and its commitment to innovation and inclusivity. It has been ranked among the top 10 colleges shaping the future of fashion by Forbes, highlighting its leadership in the field. Graduates of the school have gone on to achieve significant success in the fashion industry, with alumni making notable contributions to design, research, and education. Their achievements reflect the quality and impact of the education provided by the school. The school’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices has also garnered recognition, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental responsibility and social equity within the fashion industry.

REFERENCES

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