Fashion Degree FAQs: Your Most Common Questions Answered

We understand that choosing the right qualification is a big decision, especially when you're balancing work and study.

In this blog, we aim to answer your frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated admissions team. If you have a question about Fashion you can book a call with our admissions advisor Sarah Coyne here, or email sarah.coyne@portobelloinstitute.com

What are the entry requirements?

Each applicant will take part in a telephone interview with our admissions team. If successful, you will receive a conditional offer. At this stage, we may request supporting documentation such as your Leaving Certificate results, academic transcripts, or your most up-to-date CV.

Applicants should typically meet one of the following criteria:

· A Leaving Certificate

· A QQI Level 5 Major Award

If you are applying as a mature student and do not hold these qualifications, your application will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking your experience and background into account.

Is it mandatory to attend classes?

Yes. Attendance is strongly recommended as the programme is highly practical and hands-on.

Classes usually take place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, allowing students the flexibility to work or manage other commitments outside of these days.

What is Advanced Entry?

Advanced entry allows you to fast-track your studies if you already have relevant qualifications or professional experience.

Through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process, we review your previous education and experience. In some cases, this may allow you to enter directly into Year 2 of the programme.

What is the Difference Between a Fashion Buyer and a Fashion Merchandiser?

Fashion buyers and fashion merchandisers work closely together, but their roles focus on different aspects of the fashion retail business.

Fashion buyers are responsible for selecting the products that will be sold in stores or online. They analyse fashion trends, negotiate with suppliers, and curate collections that appeal to customers and align with the brand’s strategy.

Fashion merchandisers focus on the commercial performance of those products. They analyse sales data, manage stock levels, set pricing strategies, and ensure the right products are available at the right time to meet demand. Our BA (Hons) Fashion Buying & Merchandising programme prepares students for these specialist roles within the fashion retail sector. The BA (Hons) Fashion Management programme, on the other hand, takes a broader approach. It prepares students for management roles across multiple areas of the fashion industry, including retail operations, brand management, and business development.

Students in both programmes complete common modules in first year. At Portobello Institute, you also have the flexibility to switch between the two programmes at the end of Year 1 if you discover that one pathway better suits your interests and career goals.

Is work experience required?

Work experience is not a graded component of the programme, but there are opportunities to gain valuable industry exposure.

The course includes approximately 12 hours of field trips or placement-related activities, designed to give students insight into the fashion industry.

Students may also pursue internship opportunities during their studies. Additionally, there may be opportunities to apply for a work placement with Primark after completing the three-year programme, depending on availability and application success.

What are the assignments like?

Our fashion programmes use a variety of assessment methods designed to help students develop both creative and business skills.

Rather than relying on one final exam, assessments may include:

· Presentations

· Portfolios

· Posters

· Blogs

· Podcasts

· Mood boards

· Business or trend analysis projects

These assignments allow students to develop practical knowledge of areas such as fashion trends, brand development, budgeting, and inventory management.

Are there payment options?

Yes. Students can choose to pay their fees in full or select a payment plan when securing their place online.

For payment plans, students are usually required to pay an initial deposit of approximately 40% of the total course fee, with the remaining balance paid in instalments.

Is there available funding, such as Susi?

Unfortunately, SUSI funding is not available for this programme.

As Portobello Institute is a private college, it is not currently included on the SUSI approved provider list.

However, many students explore alternative funding options, including:

· Credit union education loans

· Bank student loans

· Employer sponsorship in some cases

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We hope this overview gives you a better understanding of our facilities management programmes and helps you find the right path for your career. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Check out our courses and next intakes by visiting our Fashion faculty.