Applications closed 2018/19
Applications for 2018/19 entry to this course have now closed.
This unique psychology of fashion degree explores consumer behaviour to enable a career in business development or management.
BSc (Hons) Psychology of Fashion teaches psychological theories, concepts and methods of enquiry to apply in the context of fashion business, with a focus on how psychological science can improve fashion industry practice. The course content is aligned with the British Psychological Society's (BPS) core areas, with the intent of achieving BPS accreditation.
This course is based at John Prince’s Street, Oxford Circus. Find out about the local area, including Marylebone, Mayfair and Soho, in our local area guides on the Student Life pages.
BSc (Hons) Psychology of Fashion is accredited by The British Psychological Society, the representative body for psychology and psychologists in the UK, responsible for the promotion of excellence and ethical practice in the science, education, and practical applications of the discipline. Our course accreditation provides graduates with a route to membership of The British Psychological Society. Joining the Society as a student member brings a range of benefits that will enrich your experience in higher education. As a psychology student on an accredited course, membership of the British Psychological Society will broaden your appreciation of your subject, help you keep abreast of new developments and open up a network of friends and contacts, not to mention future opportunities.
Psychology and its benefits are known and studied globally. The ability to identify human behaviour, traits and history, then to replace them with different actions has improved the wellbeing of […]
Three candidates pitched their business ideas at the Student Enterprise Team (SET) Challenge finale to a panel of expert judges after battling and perfecting their concepts over the last four months, […]
Take a tour of LCF's world renowned fashion library, ideal for research and study.
Discover the business facilities, across our John Princes Street and High Holborn.
Explore our social spaces, for collaborative study and breaks, across our six sites in London.
Students will be expected to engage with the diverse extra-curricular activities at LCF and UAL and to contribute to the Psychology of Fashion Student Conference, held in Spring each year, as well as other Psychology specific events at LCF. BSc (Hons) Psychology of Fashion students are encouraged to join the BPS and engage with their London & Home Counties branch which runs more than 20 free networking, careers and social events annually within the region.
The scientific discipline of Psychology equips graduates with an extremely rich and diverse portfolio of skills and knowledge that gives them a distinct edge in the employment and entrepreneurial markets of the fashion and related industries. They will understand, and therefore be able to predict human behaviour, with the aim of addressing real world problems across fashion and fashion business. However, if continuing education is the goal, the Fashion Business School at LCF offers a portfolio of Masters courses in Strategic Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship as well as Applied Psychology in Fashion, which will offer a natural progression to BSc Psychology of Fashion students with particular business acumen.
The academic year for this course is divided into Block 1 and Block 2.
Block 1 is of 15 weeks duration from late September to February. In accordance with the University timetable, there will be a four-week holiday in December.
Block 2 is also of 15 weeks’ duration from mid-February to the end of June with a four-week holiday for Easter.
The Introduction to Psychology of Fashion unit aims to introduce you to your course and its subject specialism, as well as to effective learning and studentship at undergraduate level. It will orientate you to the practices and knowledge base needed to understand your discipline and help you to develop your skills for independent & collaborative learning, reflection and your own self development. Students come from many diverse educational backgrounds and a part of this unit will enable to reflect on your own background and how that shapes the way you approach your course.
The Applications of Psychology in Fashion unit will consider how the application of psychology can make a positive difference in the fashion industries in general and in fashion business in particular. You will study theories and concepts from the core areas of psychology including individual differences, biological, cognitive, emotional, social, lifespan psychology, and discuss their application to develop solutions to real life issues in fashion.
Philosophy and Ethics in Research unit acknowledges the study and application of ethics is a fundamental component of any psychology programme. You will learn the fundamental elements of conducting research with human participants from philosophical and ethical perspectives. In doing so, you will understand how to adopt an ethical approach to conducting research in fashion business, and why a particular method of data analysis is preferable to another as a tool to interpret your results.
Introduction to Cultural & Historical Studies unit introduces the Cultural and Historical Studies approach to fashion and related areas. The unit provides a broad overview of the subject and introduces key concepts and ways of thinking that will form the basis of subsequent study. It will also inform decisions regarding the Cultural and Historical Studies unit that is chosen for future study.
The Collaborative Project unit introduces you to the research skills needed to understand human behaviour within the context of fashion and business. This unit will give you the opportunity to work collaboratively to identify an area of fashion business that interests you, and to investigate the links between your chosen topic and psychology. This will allow you to consolidate the knowledge and skills that you have already acquired, give you the opportunity to conduct research, and develop working relationships that are essential for employability.
Cognition in Design and Innovation unit looks at cognitive psychology, which is concerned with how we make sense of the world from sensation, through perception, emotion, creativity, memory, thinking and reasoning, and communication. In this unit you will learn about the influence of cognitive processes on design and innovation using the concept of design thinking, which applies empathy and creativity to generate potential solutions to a given problem. You will gain understanding of how the processes and methods used in design to solve problems can lead to enhanced design practice and improved communication with designers.
The Fashion and Wellbeing unit is concerned with the concepts and theories of psychological wellbeing as applied in the context of fashion. It explores individual, societal and global issues including identity and body image, appearance and judgement, fashion and the environment, and the impact of technology. You will develop a strategy for enhancing your own wellbeing.
The Cultural & Historical Studies Option will be able to study a Cultural and Historical Studies option of your choice that will broaden and deepen your learning of areas relating to your interests in your chosen field. You will have the opportunity to participate in lectures, seminars and workshops with students from other courses within your School, and will read relevant academic texts and complete a formal academic essay for assessment.
The Consumer Psychology unit introduces you to concepts of consumer behaviour and psychology through investigation of how and why we buy fashion goods and services. You will investigate how consumer identity is formed, and develop your understanding of fashion psychographics and cross-cultural values and how these may inform fashion marketing practices. You will apply market research methods and evaluate consumer behaviour in different parts of the world.
In the Consultancy Project you will learn how to make effective decisions regarding which research methodologies are most appropriate given a particular research question. You will develop practical analysis skills through designing an investigation, collecting, exploring, analysing and interpreting data appropriately using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), or qualitative methods of analysis and interpretation. You will then carry out and write up a negotiated consultancy project in the context of fashion business.
In Future Thinking unit you will apply the knowledge and skills from Years 1 and 2 to critically appraise current fashion business in the context of product development and marketing, including cost-benefit analysis, affordances and the human/technology interface. You will apply strategic thinking to propose feasible future scenarios for an ethical and sustainable fashion industry.
Social Sustainability and Business Psychology unit explores how human resources need to be sustained and used effectively in the same way as other tangible and intangible organisational resources. You will examine the links between employee psychological wellbeing and motivation, productivity and innovation. You will learn how to prioritise employee wellbeing through workplace initiatives, and how to evaluate their effectiveness. In addition, you will study the role of psychology in the workplace including group and team behaviour, theories of leadership and management, communication and performance management.
The Final Major Project is a major piece of work and the culmination of your degree. It provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills acquired through your work on the course. Although this is an independent piece of work, you will be allocated a supervisor who will support and guide you through tutorials.
All students are advised to set up a profile on portfolio.arts.ac.uk, UAL’s new portfolio platform, which can be done at any point during your time at LCF and will last for up to 12 months after graduation. This platform is often used to source student work for promotional use on the website, social media and for print and can be a great way of getting your work seen. You may also be asked to have a portfolio profile for the selection process when it comes to degree shows.
Dr Aurora Paillard is the Course Leader of the BSc (Hons) Psychology of Fashion and a Senior Lecturer in Psychology. She obtained a BSc in Psychology, BSc in Sport Science, a Master and a PhD in Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience. She is a BPS Chartered member and HEA Senior Fellow. Aurora did two postdoctoral positions (at the Polytechnic School of Lausanne, Switzerland and the University of Manchester) and a Teaching Fellow at the University of Besancon (France). She has extensive experience in Course Leadership and teaching. She is often contacted by the Fashion press and industry for comments. Aurora is a member of the Psychology Ethics Review Panel and the College’s Research Degrees Sub-Committee. Her research interests involve body image, sensory perception, and consumer behaviour.
Dr Jekaterina Rogaten is the Course Leader of the MSc Applied Psychology to Fashion and a Senior Lecturer in Psychology. Jekaterina obtained a BSc degree in Psychology and a PhD in Psychology. She is a fellow of Higher Education Academy, a member of Association of Business Psychology and a member of European Association on Learning and Instruction. She is also in the process of obtaining her BPS chartered membership. Jekaterina has extensive teaching experience. Her main research areas are learning analytics with a particular focus on learning gains, performance, progress, approaches to studying, creativity, metacognition, emotions, flow and motivation. She has collaborated on a number of large funded projects including national, European and International.
Dr Anke Schat is the Specialist Technician for Psychology. She completed her MSc in Clinical Neuropsychology, after which she worked as a research executive for a global media agency. She enrolled as a junior researcher at Leiden University Medical Centre in The Netherlands, where she completed her PhD on anxiety disorders working with large naturalistic datasets. Here, she co-wrote a grant application for a post-doctoral research position funded by The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMW). Anke has an extensive teaching experience. In addition to working as a specialist technician, she is a member of the UAL board of ethics and the Psychology Ethics Review Panel. Her research interests include (mental) health and sustainable consumer behaviour.
Dr Soljana Çili is a Lecturer in Psychology. She has a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and a PhD in Psychology. She is a Chartered Psychologist. Soljana has extensive teaching experience. She is a member of the Psychology Ethics Review Panel, as well as the College’s Research Degrees Sub-Committee and Academic Misconduct Panel. Her research interests revolve around autobiographical memory, intrusive mental images, factors influencing the development of individuals’ sense of self and psychological well-being, psychopathology, and cognitive-behavioural therapeutic interventions. Soljana has published her work in peer-reviewed journals and has presented it in national and international conferences. She is co-author of the book Autobiographical Memory and the Self: Relationship and Implications for Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy. View research profile.
Ameerah Khadaroo is a part-time Lecturer in Psychology. She has completed a degree in Psychology (First Class) and a Masters in Child Psychology (Distinction). She is currently finishing her PhD in Developmental Psychology at the University of Warwick. Along with undertaking teaching roles at Warwick University, she has also taught at the University of East London and undertaken research at Kingston University. Before starting her PhD, she also gained extensive experience teaching Psychology across courses and colleges in London. Ameerah is a member of the Psychology Ethics Review Panel. She has also published in peer reviewed journals and been accepted at international conferences. Her main areas of expertise are Developmental Psychology, Wellbeing and Qualitative Research Methods.
Patrick Fagan is a part-time Lecturer in Psychology. He has a BSc in Psychology and an MSc in International Marketing. Patrick is also an Associate Lecturer in Consumer Behaviour and the Psychology of Marketing and Advertising at Goldsmiths College, University of London. He is a member of the Psychology Ethics Review Panel. He has published peer-reviewed papers on topics ranging from price psychology to Facebook psychology. Patrick also frequently writes for press and blogs, appearing in publications like The Guardian, The Evening Standard and AdMap, and also makes radio and TV appearances on consumer psychology. Moreover, Patrick has an extensive experience applying brain science to business, having worked for a number of behavioural science consultancies. Patrick’s book, Hooked: Why cute sells, and other marketing magic we just can't resist is with Pearson Business.
We are committed to making university education an achievable option for a wider range of people and seek to recruit students from diverse socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds. We are committed to supporting all our students in achieving their potential both during and after their courses.
Applications for 2018/19 entry for this course are now closed. Applications for 2019/20 entry will open in Autumn 2018.
This section includes information on how to apply, course entry requirements, selection criteria, information about interviews and portfolio advice.
You must apply through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), where you’ll need the following information:
Go to ‘Apply’ from the UCAS home page, where you will be able to register and create a password that gives you unique access as you complete your application form.
Contact us on:
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7514 7344
Or you can use the register your interest form
Please note that the equal consideration deadline is 15 January.
For full details on the application process, visit the Undergraduate application page.
Applications for 2018/19 entry for this course are now closed. Applications for 2019/20 entry will open in Autumn 2018.
This section includes information on how to apply, course entry requirements, selection criteria, information about interviews and portfolio advice.
International applicants may apply through one of three routes only:
Further information on applying via UCAS is provided on the Applying through UCAS page.
If applying through UCAS, you will need the following information:
We continue to accept applications throughout the year, but please note that the equal consideration deadline is 15 January.
For full details on the application process, visit the Undergraduate application page or contact the UAL admissions team who can answer any specific questions that you may have regarding LCF's courses tailored for international students. This can include guidance for your portfolio, advice on the application process and fee advice. We offer a ‘drop-in’ facility for applicants who may be in London and wish to obtain further course and admissions information.
Entry to this course is highly competitive: applicants are expected to achieve, or already have, the course entry requirements detailed below.
The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are:
Exceptionally, applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered if the course team judges the application demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by: related academic or work experience; the quality of the personal statement; a strong academic or other professional reference; or a combination of these factors.
The course team will seek to recruit applicants:
In particular, the team will seek to recruit applicants who are aiming for a career in the Fashion and/or related life-style industries. Students who are interested in roles connecting business imperatives with the needs and expectations of their customers and/or key stakeholder groups such as employees, communities and media will be best suited for the course.
All classes are conducted in English. If English is not your first language you will be asked to provide evidence of your English language ability when you enrol.
The level required by the University for this course is IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each skill.
Please visit the UAL Language Requirements page, read carefully and look at the relevant documents.
What we look for
The course team seeks to recruit students who can demonstrate:
This might, for example, be demonstrated by: related academic or work experience; the quality of the personal statement, a strong academic or other professional reference; or a combination of these factors.
Applicants will be expected to evidence reasons in the application for:
All application forms, personal statements and references are read and considered by the course team against the selection criteria listed in the Entry requirements and What we look for sections.
If you applied through UCAS the result of your application will be communicated to you via UCAS through ucastrack. You will only receive further communication directly from the College if your application has been successful. This will be in the form of a full offer pack, sent by email, including details of accommodation, fees, and other important information.
Deferred Entry is normally only allowed in exceptional circumstances. Please contact us before you submit your application if you are considering applying for deferred entry.
Applicants on some courses may be invited to attend an Interview. Further details will be sent to you with your interview letter, confirming location and date. International applicants should contact the Admission Office by emailing lcf.international@arts.ac.uk about portfolio requirements (if applicable), interview times and dates.
Please note: the information outlined is an indicative structure of the course. Whilst we will aim to deliver the course as described on this page, there may be situations where it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, for example because of regulatory requirements or operational efficiencies, before or after enrolment. If this occurs, we will communicate all major changes to all applicants and students who have either applied or enrolled on the course. Please note that due to staff research agreements or availability, not all of the optional modules listed may be available every year. In addition, the provision of course options which depend upon the availability of specialist teaching, or on a placement at another institution, cannot be guaranteed. Please check this element of the course with the course team before making a decision to apply.
We will update this webpage from time to time with new information as it becomes available. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please use the enquiry form above.
£9,250
This applies for the 2018/19 academic year.
Tuition fees for undergraduate degree courses have been set at £9,250 per year for full-time study. This applies from the 2017/18 academic year, subject to changes in the law. Tuition fees may increase in future years for new and continuing students, in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Please visit our Undergraduate tuition fees page for more information.
£19,350
This applies for the 2018/19 academic year.
In addition to tuition fees you are very likely to incur additional costs such as travel expenses and the cost of materials. Please read the information on our additional costs page.
Find out about the accommodation options available and how much they will cost.
There are a number of scholarships and awards available to students on this course. Use our search tool to find out more information.
All of our undergraduate courses offer career development, so that you become a creative thinker, making effective contributions to your relevant sector of the fashion industry.
It is envisaged that graduates from this course and those who continue onto the MSc, will be highly sought across the fashion industry. They will possess the skills, knowledge and, moreover, the aptitude demanded by employers. Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour so it can be applied in all contexts across the fashion industries and beyond.
Some examples of potential graduate jobs are:
This applied cosmetic science course gives you the skills and knowledge for a rewarding and successful specialist career in the cosmetic and toiletry industry.
College: London College of Fashion Level: Undergraduate
This course equips students for an exciting career in fashion PR and communications within an agency or brand.
College: London College of Fashion Level: Undergraduate
This fashion marketing course will prepare you for a successful career working in the global fashion industry in the specialised area of marketing.
College: London College of Fashion Level: Undergraduate
