Fashion Design Technology
April 7, 2026 2026-06-25 23:44Fashion Design Technology
Higher National Diploma in Fashion Design Technology
The Higher National Diploma (HND) in Fashion Design Technology is a three-year full-time academic program offered by the University College of Ratmalana. The program is conducted in the English medium and integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical training, leading to the award of the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 6 in Fashion Design Technology.
The primary objective of the program is to develop competent fashion designers and fashion technologists who can meet the standards and expectations of the highly competitive Fashion and Apparel Industry in Sri Lanka.
The curriculum is carefully structured to equip students with aesthetic awareness, technical expertise, and professional competencies, while strengthening their industry knowledge and creative abilities. Through this comprehensive approach, diplomates are prepared to pursue diverse career opportunities across the fashion and apparel sector locally and globally.
Program Structure and Theoretical Foundation
The program consists of four academic semesters along with a nine-month On-the-Job Training (OJT) component, conducted in two phases to provide students with practical industry experience.
Semester I
The primary objective of this semester is to introduce students to the fashion design process while fostering the systematic development of creativity, creative thinking, and imagination. The semester is structured to guide students through key concepts and practical applications of design, as outlined in the module details below
- D18C001M01 Introduction to Fashion Design
- D18C001M02 Introduction to Trend Research in Fashion I
- D18C001M03 Concept Development and Visual Presentation I
- D18C001M04 Concept Development and Visual Presentation II
- D18C001M04 Concept Development and Visual Presentation II
- D18C001M06 Fashion Illustration and Technical Drawing I
Semester II
In this semester, the creative thinking processes developed earlier are applied to product realization by introducing students to the technical aspects of fashion product development. Learning is further enhanced through field visits, workshops, and practical exposure, providing valuable insights into real industry practices. The module details are as follows.
- D18C001M07 Pattern Making I
- D18C001M08 Fabrics, Trims, and Accessories
- D18C001M09 Garment Construction
- D18C001M10 Product Development I
- D18C001M11 Portfolio Development and Presentation
On-the-Job Training (Phase I) – 6 Months
Semester III
This semester integrates the training experience with the academic curriculum while providing students with in-depth knowledge of industrial technologies and structured hands-on experience in applying these technologies to fashion design projects. The module details are as follows.
- D18C001M12 Trend Research in Fashion II
- D18C001M13 Design Development
- D18C001M14 Fashion Illustration and Technical Drawing II
- D18C001M04 D18C001M15 Value Added Applications in Fashion
Semester IV
The final semester is designed to support the professional development of students as fashion designers and fashion technologists while introducing them to the business aspects of the fashion industry. During this semester, students will develop their inaugural fashion collections that reflect their individual identity and area of specialization. These collections will be presented to the industry through a comprehensive design portfolio, which could open up an array of career opportunities. The module details are as follows.
- D18C001M16 Pattern Making II
- D18C001M17 Product Development II
- D18C001M18 Fashion Product Marketing and Portfolio Presentation
- D18C001M19 Professional Development
On-the-Job Training (Phase II) – 3 Months
Learning Resources and Facilities
The Fashion Design Technology program at the University College of Ratmalana is committed to providing students with a comprehensive and practical learning experience. The program emphasizes hands-on training, allowing students to gain firsthand experience in using industry-relevant machinery, tools, and equipment throughout the fashion design and product development process. To support this approach, the program is equipped with three specialized laboratories featuring modern machinery and technology, enabling students to develop the practical skills required to succeed in the competitive fashion and apparel industry.
In addition, students benefit from access to a well-resourced library containing a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and reference materials related to fashion design and technology. The program also fosters a supportive learning culture, where both academic and non-academic staff actively guide students in their personal, academic, and professional development.
Through these facilities and continuous support, the program aims to develop creative, skilled, and industry-ready professionals who will contribute to shaping the future of the fashion and apparel industry in Sri Lanka.
Application Eligibility
Applicants seeking admission to the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Fashion Design Technology at University College of Ratmalana should satisfy one of the following minimum entry qualifications:
Successful completion of the General Certificate of Education (G.C.E.) Advanced Level Examination in any stream,
or
An NVQ Level 4 qualification in Tailor or Pattern Maker.
