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BA (Hons) Fashion Management

BA (Hons) Fashion Management
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Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Fashion Management at Portobello Institute is designed for students who want to build a career in the global fashion industry but may not yet know which specific area they want to specialise in. This degree provides a broad understanding of how the fashion industry operates — from buying and merchandising to marketing, branding, retail strategy, and fashion business management.

Key Facts – BA (Hons) Fashion Management

Programme: BA (Hons) Fashion Management
Institution: Portobello Institute
Level: Undergraduate Honours Degree
Field of Study: Fashion business, fashion retail, buying, merchandising, brand management, marketing and fashion entrepreneurship
Career Outcomes: Fashion Management, Fashion Buyer, Fashion Merchandiser, Brand Executive, Fashion Marketing Executive, Retail Manager, Fashion Business Manager
Industry Experience: Internships with leading brands and international fashion trade show visits
Industry Exposure: London, Paris, and Copenhagen fashion events

Applications for Autumn 2026 are now open, with limited places offered on a first-come basis; applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure a conditional offer, providing certainty and reducing Leaving Certificate exam pressure.

Level Undergraduate Qualification Honours Degree
In-person Weekdays
Duration 3 years
Select start date
1st Year Fees €5,730.00
Register Interest Apply

BA (Hons) Fashion Management

The BA (Hons) Fashion Management at Portobello Institute prepares you for a dynamic career in the global fashion industry. This degree is designed for students who want to understand how fashion businesses operate and who may still be exploring which area of the industry they would like to specialise in.

You will study the commercial, creative and strategic aspects of fashion, including sustainability, garment production, fashion marketing, leadership, and financial decision-making. The programme combines business education with industry-focused learning so that graduates develop the commercial awareness and practical experience needed to succeed in fashion retail, brand management, buying, merchandising, and fashion marketing.

A defining feature of this programme is its strong industry focus. Students benefit from internships, industry projects, and international fashion experiences, including visits to major fashion events in London, Paris and Copenhagen. These opportunities provide real insight into how the fashion industry operates and help students build valuable professional networks before graduating.

Graduates of this programme have demonstrated strong career outcomes, with many securing roles in the fashion industry before completing their studies.

Career Outcomes & Study Pathways

The BA (Hons) Fashion Management degree prepares graduates for a wide range of careers across the fashion and retail industries. The programme develops both the commercial and creative skills required to work in fashion businesses at brand, retail, and management level.

Typical career pathways include:

  • Fashion Buyer
  • Fashion Merchandiser
  • Fashion Marketing Executive
  • Brand Manager
  • Retail Manager
  • Product Development Assistant
  • Fashion Business Manager
  • Fashion Brand Strategist

Graduates may work with fashion retailers, global brands, independent labels, or fashion-focused businesses across areas such as marketing, retail operations, brand management, buying and merchandising.

The programme also provides a strong academic foundation for those who wish to pursue postgraduate study in fashion business, fashion marketing, luxury brand management or retail management.

A unique feature of the programme is that Year 1 is shared with the BA (Hons) Fashion Buying & Merchandising. This allows students to explore different areas of the fashion industry before specialising. Students who discover a stronger interest in the product and commercial side of fashion may choose to transfer to the Fashion Buying & Merchandising degree after Year 1.

Who Is This Course For

This programme is ideal for students who:

  • Want to build a career in the fashion industry
  • Are interested in the business and commercial side of fashion
  • Want to explore different career paths within fashion before specialising
  • Are interested in fashion retail, branding, marketing, or fashion business management
  • Prefer a practical, industry-informed degree with real industry exposure

The course suits students who are both creative and commercially minded and who want to understand how fashion brands grow, compete and succeed in a global marketplace.

Teaching, Learning & Practical Training

The programme is designed to reflect the realities of the fashion industry. Students learn through a combination of academic study, industry insight, practical projects, and professional development.

Teaching focuses on developing commercial awareness, creative thinking, and strategic decision-making, preparing students to contribute effectively within fashion businesses.

Learning Approach

Students engage with a variety of learning methods designed to develop both knowledge and professional skills, including:

  • Industry-informed lectures and seminars
  • Fashion business case studies
  • Collaborative projects and presentations
  • Retail and brand analysis
  • Practical assignments reflecting real fashion industry challenges

This approach helps students understand how fashion businesses operate and how decisions around product, branding, sustainability, and retail strategy impact commercial success.

Practical & Placement Experience

Professional experience is a core element of the BA (Hons) Fashion Management degree.

Students have the opportunity to complete internships with leading fashion brands and retailers, allowing them to apply their learning in real industry environments. These placements contribute to the Professional Practice and Development Portfolio, which forms part of the final-year assessment.

The programme also includes a Fashion Research Project, enabling students to explore a topic relevant to their future career and demonstrate their industry knowledge.

By the time students graduate, they have developed both academic knowledge and professional experience, ensuring they are well prepared to enter the fashion industry.

What You Will Study

The curriculum combines fashion industry knowledge with business and management skills.

Key areas of study include:

  • Fashion business and management
  • Fashion marketing and brand strategy
  • Sustainability in the fashion industry
  • Garment production and product development
  • Retail and consumer behaviour
  • Leadership and business management
  • Financial decision-making for fashion businesses
  • Fashion industry research and analysis

This broad curriculum gives students a strong understanding of how fashion companies operate and prepares them for multiple career paths within the industry.

Real World Fashion Industry Experience

International fashion industry exposure is an important part of the learning experience at Portobello Institute.

Students attend major fashion industry events and trade shows in London, Paris and Copenhagen, where they experience the fashion industry in action. These visits allow students to observe how fashion collections are presented, how buyers and brands operate at international events, and how trends move through the global fashion market.

Students attend these events not simply as observers but as emerging fashion professionals, gaining insight into how the industry operates and building an understanding of the commercial environment they will enter after graduation.

These experiences provide valuable industry context and often become defining moments in students’ professional development.

Academic Support & Industry Expert Teaching

Students benefit from teaching delivered by experienced fashion industry professionals and academics who bring real-world knowledge into the classroom.

The teaching team includes specialists in fashion business, retail strategy, marketing, merchandising, and fashion production. Their industry experience helps students understand how theory translates into practice.

Portobello Institute is committed to supporting student success throughout the programme. Students have access to:

  • Academic mentoring and guidance
  • Career-focused support and professional development
  • Small class sizes and personalised learning
  • Support for internships and industry networking opportunities

This supportive learning environment helps students build confidence, develop professional skills, and prepare for successful careers in the fashion industry.

Apply Early – Conditional Offers Available

Students applying to this programme may be offered a conditional place ahead of the Leaving Certificate examinations, giving them early confirmation of their pathway into higher education.

Receiving an early offer provides peace of mind during the exam year. It allows applicants to approach their Leaving Certificate with greater confidence, knowing they already have a place secured, subject to meeting the required conditions.

Award

Upon completion, you will earn a BA (Hons) in Fashion Management from London Metropolitan University (London Met). This degree is recognised in Ireland, the UK and internationally. 

*CATS Credits Displayed. 2 CATS points = 1 ECTS point.

Learning Outcomes of this module are:

  1. Demonstrate ability to evaluate and plan for development of study skills and monitor achievement. 
  2. Reference other people’s work in a precise and systematic way. 
  3. Demonstrate ability to source appropriate information and reference.
  4. Reflect on learning and personal experiences as a student to foster a professional identity. 
  5.  Use digital tools to complete and submit assessment components.  

Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1. Summarize the chronological historical development and timeline of fashion evolution from the 1900’s to present.
  2. Identify and analyze a range of primary and secondary sources relating to the history of fashion and textiles and situate them in cultural, economic, and political contexts.  
  3. Articulate the relationship between fashion, culture, and power.

Upon completion of the module the students will be able to: 

  1. Define the key elements in trend forecasting, interpret trends and utilise data in product range development processes. 
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of the major principles and techniques of gathering information about consumer behaviour. 
  3.  Apply knowledge about specific consumer behaviours and buying habits to the decision- making process of fashion buyers, merchandisers, and managers.

The Learning Outcomes of this module are:

  1. Analyse the business environment for fashion organisations, considering local and global perspectives.
  2. Describe and constructively critique major marketing principles and concepts.
  3. Design marketing strategies for organisations operating in the fashion industry drawing on major theoretical perspectives.

 

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1.  Articulate the roles and responsibilities of buyers and merchandisers in fashion industry organisations. 
  2.  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the buying cycle and factors influencing it.
  3. Identify customer profiling strategies used by fashion organisations.  

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1. Evaluate and apply correct textile materials, equipment and mathematics required in apparel manufacturing.
  2.  Measure and record a variety of garments: blouses, pants, skirts, jackets, dresses, intimate apparel, and evaluate different methods used to measure garments in the industry and create garment specifications.
  3. Scrutinize in the context of garment design; fit and appearance, properties of materials, and cutting techniques involved in the creation of a garment 

 

LO4. Evidence and illustrate considered reflection on appropriate industry processes and applications within their personal creative and intellectual practice 

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1. Articulate the role of supply chain management in implementing the business strategy of companies. 
  2. Identify decision phases within the supply chain management and describe the main stages in the planning and coordination processes. 
  3. Examine commercial practices and supply chain networks strategies used by companies in the fashion industry.  
  4. Analyse the impact of disruptive technologies and sustainability concerns on global management of supply chains.

 

The Learning Outcomes of this module are to:

  1. Critically analyse examples of innovation in the world of fashion by drawing on theoretical perspectives and models.  
  2. Apply innovative approaches to solving problems in the fashion industry using available models and tools. 
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of major research methodologies and select appropriate research tools taking into account ethical issues.   

The Learning Outcomes of the Module are:

  1. Evaluate the properties and performance in textile fabrics and materials in garment construction and select the most suitable for the assembly and construction of a garment/s.
  2.  Interpret and analyse manufacturing problems, finding solutions to solving garment engineering and wholesale production problems.
  3. Select appropriate sources to gain relevant information on the manufacture of garment design, designed samples and wholesale production in the fashion industry.

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are:

  1. Utilize analytical and numerical skills to plan, prepare and execute merchandise plans
  2. Justify the importance of lead times and the use of the critical path model in the product development process and supplier management
  3. Appraise the key skills required for the role of the merchandiser with a particular focus on interdepartmental and interpersonal relationships.

The Learning Outcomes of the module are to:

  1. Evaluate different models and theories of leadership and relate these to ethical dilemmas of leadership within a global context in the 21st century.  
  2. Outline the equality legislation and justify the importance of inclusive working environment for organisations within the fashion industry. 
  3. Employ reflective learning skills to relate models of leadership, change management and ethical issues to personal learning and practice. 

 

 

The learning outcomes are:

  1.  Examine fundamental financial theories relevant to financial decision making and governance in the business of fashion. 
  2.   Analyse and critically evaluate retail financial information using various analytical tools to support strategic financial decision making 
  3. Evaluate elements of risk, return and value in strategic operational financial decisions.  

The Learning Outcomes for this Module are:

  1. Design marketing research tool to gather information, analyse and evaluate insights from fashion consumers data. 
  2. Demonstrate application of creative thinking skills to practical problems by developing an effective integrated marketing communications plan. 
  3. Apply the key elements of the marketing system known as the marketing mix to fashion products. 

 

The Learning Outcomes For this Module are:

  1. Compare various economic markets within the fashion industry and identify micro-and macro-economic factors which influence them.  
  2.  Apply the PESTLE framework to evaluate the context of firms.  
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of contexts and aspects of business and economic environments which have impact on business practices and decision-making processes.  
  4. Discuss the role of stakeholders in shaping business and economic environments.  

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1. Identify and analyse the complex process of developing sustainable fashion products, the manufacturing processes involved
  2.  Summarise and demonstrate critical awareness of business development within the context of Fashion and CSR
  3. Apply analytical tools to assess sustainability practices in a wide range of contexts and situations in the fashion Industry

 The learning outcomes of this module are to:

  1. Make critical connnections between learning across modules within the professional context of the fashion industry. 
  2. Reflect constructively on their personal and professional learning and set targets for the future development of knowledge, skills and competencies. 
  3. Produce an e-Portofolio as a tool to support personal and professional development throughout the programme and beyond.  

 

The Learning Outcomes of this Module are to:

  1. Constructively critique and relate major strategy management theories, frameworks, concepts to delivery of strategic change in a Fashion organisation
  2. Evaluate current strengths and weaknesses of Fashion organisations, the external threats and opportunities and create context-specific proposals for organisation’s strategy direction
  3. Apply strategy tools and techniques to analyse organisations within their specific contexts
  4. Appraise influence of organisational culture on the strategic decision-making process

 

The learning outcomes of this module are to:

  1. Formulate research questions and set clear and realistic research aims related to the areas fashion business, management, marketing, buying, or merchandising.
  2.  Apply ethical frameworks throughout the research process.
  3.  Draw on a wide range of sources to conduct a literature review into a specific area to describe, analyse and constructively critique theoretical perspectives and contexts relevant to the research question.
  4.  Demonstrate competence in research skills through selection of appropriate tools for data gathering consistent with the chosen methodology.
  5.  Draw on theory to analyse data and discuss research findings to develop credible arguments and generate appropriate conclusions/recommendations 

Anne Marie McAuley


“I absolutely love what I do and genuinely embrace supporting a person to develop and grow. I encourage and promote people at all levels to maximise their potential and hopefully instil a sense of purpose. The are many careers one can pursue when completing a Portobello Institute fashion course. Part…...

“I absolutely love what I do and genuinely embrace supporting a person to develop and grow. I encourage and promote people at all levels to maximise their potential and hopefully instil a sense of purpose.

The are many careers one can pursue when completing a Portobello Institute fashion course. Part of my role is to help and support you to find the best path.”

About Anne Marie McAuley

After graduating from college in the USA with degrees in Business and Psychology, I initially worked as a milieu counsellor with young adults presenting with social and developmental difficulties – I was all about saving the world and think I still can – which was fantastic and the insights I gained in that role have helped me through my own journey to this day.

I always loved fashion, when I was small and then through my teenage years. I always wanted the latest trendy gear, constantly adapting my clothes myself to be a bit different. I was the first of my friends to have a pair of drainpipe jeans (known as skinnies these days!). I always had a part-time job in retail through school and in college at stores like Macy’s and Lord and Taylor.

My first job in a department store was at Christmas time and I was tasked with selling cashmere sweaters, the only section that the full-time and staff with tenure would allow me to work in as I was the ‘blown in college student’. I soon figured out that my best customer demographic was the panicked husband looking to purchase a gift for his wife and willing to spend ‘whatever to make her happy’ and of course who does not love cashmere – Cha-Ching! I did more in sales than anyone in the department and as we were commission-based, I was a very happy student. I was destined for a career in retail and fashion and I never forgot the importance of knowing your customer.

I then secured a job in Saks Fifth Ave as an assistant – really just running around New York picking up samples for photos, answering telephones, dressing mannequins, and doing whatever I was told to do, all the time absorbing and learning as much as I could. Back then being around designers like Michael Kors, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Ralph Lauren was an everyday occurrence.

I worked hard and soon became a junior buyer and then a senior buyer, I loved my job. I moved into the retail operations at Saks as I wanted to develop my skills and I found that leading, coaching, and developing people to also do well was one of my favourite parts of the job. I soon was heading up new store opening teams and one of my greatest achievements was the opening of the San Fran Store. It takes a huge team effort to train several hundred new staff and merchandise the store for opening. I travelled all over the country and enjoyed every day at Saks.

I moved back to Ireland where I secured the role of Retail Operations Manager of The Body Shop Ireland. I had always loved the product and admired their business ethos and not testing on animals. It soon became clear that there were huge challenges within the group around staff training and development which I embraced and was thrilled to be able to use my American experience to influence major decisions in changing the direction of The Body Shop. I also attended any training sessions that the company had for senior management to consistently develop my own skills in leadership and management. While at The Body Shop, I looked at how we could develop the business and came up with a body shop concession concept for pharmacies. We started with one and now there are 150 and the concept has been copied across Europe.

I decided to step away from the role when we were adopting my beautiful girl from Vietnam. For the next few years, I worked as a consultant in retail, so my schedule was flexible and partnered with companies like Claire’s Accessories, New Look, The Health Store Group, I also became a qualified trainer because helping, teaching, and supporting people were always top of my list.

I applied for the role of a tutor at Portobello Institute and started with delivering QQI level 6 business planning and then an opening came up in the fashion department to teach the buying and merchandising module. Wow, to be able to combine my qualifications, my fashion and business experience with my love of helping people to become successful while still being there for my daughter – fantastic. Of course, because it is in my nature to be a leader, yet still embrace inclusivity, I became the programme manager and have developed the fashion programme to be the number one course in the country. I am also on the panel of mentors of Enterprise Ireland, and on the panel of trainers with the Education Training Board.

Why did you choose to work in education?

I understand that to be a teacher is truly a calling of not just the mind, but the heart as well. I believe that great teachers are good at explaining content, are patient, yet firm with students, are always fair, set high expectations, know how to motivate, and use humour appropriately. Being an excellent communicator who has a command of the subject matter is really important. I have forged my own style of teaching that draws on my strengths, knowledge, skills, values, and experiences yet fully realise I still have much to learn and develop and I am always learning from my peers and my students.

I have chosen education as a career because I believe that education is perhaps the most important function performed in our culture, or for that matter, any culture. I believe that teachers individually and collectively can not only change the world, but improve it, and in the process find personal and professional renewal. I love being to be part of this noble profession and hope to continue to inspire all the students I meet.

Empathy is of huge importance to me and understanding that no matter how someone presents themselves to you there are always things going on behind the scenes. I know this from experience and have learned the importance of understanding that everyone learns differently while at the same time, a tutor must balance that with the demands of the professional industry that the students want a career in.

The fashion industry is demanding and challenging. It is my role to fully prepare students for the reality of those challenges.

Your experience as a Programme Manager

As a Programme Manager, I can develop the course content, so that it remains up-to-date and relevant. I can utilise my connections in the industry to connect our students with the best companies to fulfil their dreams of a career in fashion. I can ensure we have the best team of tutors who are all on board with our philosophies, and I can share my experience and learn from everyone on the team. I get to inspire and I enjoy every day that I am part of Portobello.

Why Portobello?

I chose to work at Portobello because it allows me the opportunity to bring my unique style into the classroom. I get to work with a super team of individuals. I am respected and valued for my input. Yes, we have policies and procedures like any strong organisation has but I get to have fun at work.

We have smaller classes in Portobello which allow us to connect with each student as an individual. We have a holistic approach to education and can balance the academic content required while putting our students’ emotional and psychological needs to the fore.

We have a team of people here at Portobello who all want our student base to succeed, from the academic team to the support team in the office. We are always thrilled to share great news stories about our students, especially those who have overcome many obstacles before they arrived at Portobello and during their time with us.

A student should choose to study with us because they will have the journey of their lives while being supported the whole way through and beyond.

Anne Marie is the Programme Manager for Portobello Institute’s BA (Hons) Fashion Buying & Merchandising, and  BA (Hons) Fashion Management 

What Students Say

Stephanie Burns – Fashion Buying & Merchandising

“Anne Marie has the rare ability to make learning both interesting and enjoyable. Through the amazing stories of her first-hand experience in international business and her unique and fun teaching methods, she was able to inspire me in a way of wanting to be the best student that I could be. I was scared of going back to education after a long absence, but Anne Marie made the transition so easy.  She encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, helped me recognise my strengths, and gave me the confidence that I needed to go forward and pursue my dream career in the fashion industry. She is both encouraging and inspiring, and I feel so lucky to have been one of her students. She truly changed my life.”

Mpho Morwaeng – Business Planning

“Being a student of Anne Marie’s has been the best experience in my tertiary education. I enjoyed each and every single class with her. Being an international student, coming all the way from Botswana to be in her class was worth it and it’s an experience I will cherish forever. She was always supportive, positive, and patient with me, in and out of class she was available to assist me with my studies. She did not criticise, she encouraged. She motivated and inspired me to do my best. She treated us equally in class and it made me feel free to ask questions and participate in class. Not only did she teach theory, but she was also very practical and demonstrated how everything applies in the real world. I will carry with me the knowledge and skills I gained from her forever.”

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree Psychology
  • Bachelors Degree Business
  • QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer
  • QQI level 6 Supervisor
  • Currently completing MA in Counselling

Research / Industry Participation

  • Developed the Student Internship Programme partnered with Industry leaders Primark, Brown Thomas, Arnotts, Pamela Scott, Lifestyle Sports, Diesel etc.
  • Mentor for Enterprise Ireland
  • Mentor for Meath Partnership
  • Panellist of Trainers for ETB

 

This course is delivered in person on weekdays, which means 12 to 16 hours of in-person lectures per week.

The course timetable is condensed to be delivered with onsite classes 2-3 days per week over two semesters for 3 academic years.

Timetables are considerate of students’ travel and accommodation arrangements, part-time working and study-life balance.

SMART assessments – we use a range of assessments for each module designed to support a broad range of learning styles, giving you the opportunity to excel.

A defining feature of the BA (Hons) Fashion Management at Portobello Institute is the emphasis on real industry experience. Students are given opportunities to engage directly with the fashion industry, ensuring they graduate with practical insight, professional confidence, and industry connections.

These experiences are designed to replicate how the fashion industry operates in practice. Students are encouraged to think and work like fashion professionals, developing the commercial awareness and decision-making skills required in fashion businesses.

International Fashion Industry Experience

Each year, students have the opportunity to attend major fashion events and trade shows in London, Paris and Copenhagen — some of the most influential fashion capitals in the world.

These trips form an important part of the learning experience. Students attend fashion industry events not simply as observers, but with the mindset of emerging fashion professionals. They analyse collections, study retail trends, observe how brands present and position their collections, and explore how buyers and fashion businesses identify commercial opportunities.

This experience allows students to understand how fashion trends move from runway to retail and how brands operate within the global fashion marketplace.

Industry Internships

Students also benefit from career-launching internships with leading fashion brands and retailers. These internships are carefully aligned with students’ interests and career goals, allowing them to gain meaningful industry experience.

Internships take place during the summer months and as part of the Professional Practice and Development Portfolio in the final year. Through these placements, students build practical skills, develop professional networks, and gain insight into the day-to-day operations of fashion businesses.

Students have secured internships with well-known brands including:

  • Primark
  • Brown Thomas
  • Arnotts
  • River Island
  • LVMH brands
  • Pamela Scott
  • New Balance

These experiences often lead directly to graduate employment opportunities.

Professional Portfolio Development

Throughout the programme, students build a Professional Practice and Development Portfolio that captures their industry experience, research, and professional learning.

This portfolio demonstrates their understanding of fashion business strategy, retail performance, brand positioning, and consumer trends. It provides graduates with a strong professional profile that supports them when applying for roles in the fashion industry.

Learning Through Industry Engagement

By combining international fashion exposure, internships, and industry-focused projects, the programme ensures students graduate with more than academic knowledge.

They leave with real-world fashion industry experience, a professional network, and a clear understanding of how fashion businesses operate — giving them a strong advantage when beginning their careers.

 

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Industry Events

Portobello Institute organises trips each year to the following major fashion events, offering our students first-hand experience of trade shows, trend forecasting, networking and more.

  • Premier Vision, Paris
  • White Show, Milan
  • Source, London
  • Moda, Birmingham
  • Ireland’s Eye Knitwear Factory, Dublin
  • Fashion City, Dublin
  • White Show Milan or Copenhagen CIFF Trade Show

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Fashion Management at Portobello Institute benefit from strong employment outcomes and high demand from fashion brands and retailers. The programme is designed to develop commercially aware graduates who understand how the fashion industry operates, from product development and branding to retail strategy and marketing.

In 2025, 100% of graduates secured employment before completing their studies, with many receiving multiple job offers and having the opportunity to choose roles aligned with their interests and career goals. This reflects both the strength of the programme and the industry experience students gain throughout their degree.

Students graduate with a combination of fashion business knowledge, industry exposure, and professional experience, making them attractive candidates for employers across the fashion and retail sectors.

Graduate Career Opportunities

Graduates typically progress into roles such as:

  • Fashion Buyer
  • Assistant Buyer
  • Fashion Merchandiser
  • Fashion Marketing Executive
  • Brand Executive
  • Retail Manager
  • Product Development Assistant
  • Fashion Business Development Executive
  • E-commerce and Digital Fashion Executive

These roles exist across a wide range of organisations including global fashion brands, luxury retailers, high street fashion companies, independent labels, and fashion-focused start-ups.

Fashion Industry Demand

The global fashion industry continues to evolve rapidly, creating demand for professionals who understand both the creative and commercial sides of fashion. Employers increasingly seek graduates who combine fashion knowledge with business skills such as marketing, retail strategy, sustainability, and financial decision-making.

Through internships, international fashion industry exposure, and industry-informed teaching, Portobello Institute graduates enter the job market with practical experience and industry insight, giving them a strong advantage when applying for roles.

Long-Term Career Development

With experience, graduates can progress into senior positions such as:

  • Senior Buyer
  • Head of Merchandising
  • Fashion Brand Manager
  • Retail Operations Manager
  • Creative Brand Director
  • Fashion Business Entrepreneur

The broad business foundation of the programme also allows graduates to move between different areas of the fashion industry as their careers develop.

Leaving Certificate requirements – Minimum of grade O6 in English and Maths (Foundation Maths accepted) with a pass in 4 other subjects.
Students are accepted onto this programme without a leaving certificate however applicants must meet one of the following criteria; QQI level 5 major award preferably but not essentially in retail, design, business or finance. Alternative retail, business, design or finance qualification. An undergraduate degree in another subject. Experiential Learning in retail, business, finance or a related field with a QQI Level 5 or equivalent award in any subject.
All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
  1. 1
    Complete the online application form.
  2. 2
    Review of application and confirmation of eligibility criteria and entry requirements.
  3. 3
    An "Offer" issued based on meeting criteria or a "Conditional Offer" issued based on successful achievement of LC requirements
  4. 4
    Confirm acceptance of a place and pay deposit as detailed
In-person Weekdays

Course: €5,395 + Exam Body Reg. Fee: €335.00

€5,730.00 Year 1 total fee

Year 2
Cost per academic year: €5,730
Year 3
Cost per academic year: €5,730
In-person Weekdays

Option 1

40% deposit payment (€2,410.00), followed by 6 scheduled payments on the first of each month, commencing the 1st of the month after the start date of the course. Includes one off instalment fee of €295.

  • €602.50 due in month 1
  • €602.50 due in month 2
  • €602.50 due in month 3
  • €602.50 due in month 4
  • €602.50 due in month 5
  • €602.50 due in month 6

Option 2

40% deposit payment (€2,292.00) due on application of your course. Final balance (€3,438.00) due before the course start date.

Who else has studied this course?

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Business of Fashion
Niamh Jones – Creating for Primark’s Global Stores as a Fashion Buyer in Her Dream Career
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Business of Fashion
Megan Gallagher – Career Success and Fulfilment as a Merchandiser at New Balance
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Business of Fashion
Chloe Linehan – From Arts Degree to Following Her Passion and Securing Her Dream Career at Primark

BA (Hons) Fashion Management FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

To apply, you will submit an application online.

If you are awaiting your Leaving Certificate results, you may be invited to take part in a short admissions interview. If successful, you will receive a conditional offer.

If you have already completed your Leaving Certificate or hold another relevant qualification, your application will be assessed based on your results and supporting documentation.

Do I need experience in fashion to apply?

No prior experience in fashion is required.

This course is designed to help you build the knowledge and practical skills needed to start your career in the fashion industry.

Is attendance required?

Yes. This is a practical course, so attending classes is strongly recommended.
Classes usually take place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, allowing flexibility for work or other commitments.

What careers can this course lead to?

This degree prepares you for roles such as:

  • Fashion Manager
  • Retail Manager
  • Brand Manager
  • Fashion Marketing Executive
  • Business Development Executive
What will I learn on the Fashion Management course?

This course focuses on the business side of the fashion industry.

You will develop skills in:

  • Brand management
  • Retail operations
  • Marketing and strategy
  • Business development

This prepares you for management roles across the fashion industry.

Will I gain industry experience during the course?

Yes. You will take part in industry visits, field trips, and gain exposure to the fashion industry.

You can also pursue internships during your studies

What kind of assignments will I complete?

You will complete practical assessments such as:

  • Presentations
  • Portfolios
  • Mood boards
  • Trend analysis
  • Business and marketing projects
Can I switch to another fashion course later?

Yes. You will complete shared modules in Year 1, giving you the option to switch to BA (Hons) Fashion Buying & Merchandising if your career goals change.

Are there payment plan options available?

Yes. You can pay in full or choose a payment plan with an initial deposit and instalments.

Is SUSI funding available for this course?

No, SUSI funding is not available.

Many students explore alternatives such as credit union loans, bank loans, or employer sponsorship.

Speak to an expert

Sarah Coyne


Education is a journey and the destination is a career that you love. I support the department that helps you to plan your journey so you can find the path that’s right for you. As I am often the first point of contact for many prospective students, I am excited to introduce students to the Portobello Institute experience. I enjoy learning about students’ ideas, goals, and passions, and this job allows me to do so.  

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