UAL vs University of Manchester for Fashion Buying and Merchandising!?!

Hi, I have offers from both University of Manchester and University College London (UAL) to study Fashion Buying and Merchandising but I am completely stuck on which to choose!

I always leaned towards UAL, partly as I never expected to get an offer from Manchester and I loved the idea of living in London.. but I don't know now. Regardless of the course itself, Manchester is obviously a much higher ranking uni and a Russel group, which UAL isn't.

Anyone have any advice please?

Reply 1

Lya K

Heyyy i was in the same predicament as you about two months back. I applied to both the unis same as you, at that point uom was a pipe dream and I didn't think I could get it but I did. After weeks of contemplating and making a pros and cons list, I ultimately decided to go with UOM because like you said it's more renowned and prestigious. My dream was to live in London too and I plan on doing just that after I'm done with my degree. Manchester also happens to be cheaper lifestyle wise so win win

Reply 2

Clearing and Applications Advisor

Manchester doesn’t attend Graduate Fashion Week.

It’s a business course primarily with a few specialist modules not a dedicated fashion business degree.

Reply 3

McGinger

UAL = University of the Arts London.
Its an umbrella for the top Art Schools and other creative colleges.
It one of the best places in the world to study any aspect of fashion.

Manchester? Don't waste your time. Its an academic Uni, the course focuses on Business and it wont teach you anything useful about the fashion industry,

Reply 4

Clearing and Applications Advisor

CSM is one of the best places to study fashion. The other UAL colleges not so much - treated as poor relations (even LCF) and because CSM has its own london show lots of the other UAL colleges don’t get the same attention or attend GFW.

I’d rate Man Met above non-CSM UAL colleges (and obviously above UoManchester). Especially for buyers/merchandising.