How are we different?

The education of our textile designer begins in the art studios,where students develop a sense of color, light, shape, texture and form. Design students then study the properties of fibers, yarns, dyes, and fabric construction. They learn to research design. Of special help is The Design Center at Philadelphia University with its textile study collection ranging from Coptic to the contemporary.

Students get hands-on expertise with the latest computerized design systems before trying their own designs on knitting, weaving and printing equipment. Because most designs are created to sell textile products, the program also includes principles of marketing and product performance.

A cornerstone of our program is our system of portfolio reviews. Every student is reviewed and advised individually by a panel of instructors after their freshman year, mid way through their Jr. year and part of graduation requirements is the mounting of a Senior Exhibition. Skills reviewed are drawing and painting, use of color and presentation. We feel graduates shouldn't only produce great work but should be able explain and defend it as well and nothing teaches this like practice.

View our Undergraduate Course Catalog.