Mini Study Abroad: UAL Short Courses in London
Intensive international experience: The UAL Short Courses in fashion, design, and more provide you with creative skills and networking opportunities!
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What is a Short Course at UAL?
The University of the Arts London (UAL) is one of the most prestigious fashion and design schools in the world, alongside the Royal College of Arts, making it one of England’s top institutions.
A Short Course at UAL is a brief, intensive program lasting from a few days to several weeks, typically requiring payment. Some courses may even last just one day, serving as a quick educational opportunity for students, graduates, or professionals. They can be held on-site or virtually, utilizing UAL’s renowned campuses like Central Saint Martins and London College of Communication.
Sometimes, there are even special UAL courses that include stays abroad in other cities like Dubai!
Become an expert in no time: Unlike a longer semester program, you can dive deeply into topics like art, design, fashion, or photography while acquiring practical skills. The courses are compact, allowing you to focus on a specific area of interest in an international setting, where you can also expand your network! Sometimes, you just want to get a taste of it. For instance, some banks in London or Frankfurt offer Spring Weeks in investment banking to get to know each other.
If you want to gain international experience but traveling to London is not an option for you for any reason, you can participate in one of the many virtual Short Courses. These usually take place in the evenings and last several weeks. However, the duration can vary, so just check the website for details.
It’s best to sign up directly:
The following categories are available (please note that these may change at any time, so check the website regularly):
🎲 3D design and product design
👠 Accessories, footwear and jewellery
🎬 Animation, interactive, film and sound
🏘️ Architecture, spatial and interior design
⚗️ Business & management, and science
🖥️ Communication and graphic design
✨ Creative computing
🏛️ Curation and culture
👘 Fashion business
🎤 Fashion communication
🧵 Fashion design
✂️ Fashion making and pattern cutting
💄 Fashion styling and make up
🖼️ Fine art
✏️ Illustration
📰 Journalism, PR, media and publishing
🎭 Performance and design for theatre and screen
📷 Photography
👚 Textiles and materials
What are the requirements for a UAL Short Course?
There are no formal entry requirements. While prior knowledge can be beneficial, it is usually not necessary, and this will be clearly stated in the course description.
All courses are taught in English, so if English is not your native language, you should have a good command of both spoken and written English to participate in group discussions and presentations. Don’t be discouraged if your English isn’t perfect; you’ll improve significantly in just a few days! You have nothing to lose — give it a try!
Booking is super easy and done online — no need for a lengthy application process. Forget about cover letters or extra prep. Just a few clicks, and you’re ready to go! Find out why you can usually leave out a cover letter for job applications and how you can stand out instead!
Why is a UAL Short Course beneficial for your CV?
A short course is ideal for gaining international experience without having to commit to a long semester or year abroad. In major cities like London, you can develop your creativity, try out new techniques and receive direct feedback from experienced lecturers. Would you like to go abroad for 1–2 years? Then learn more about the international VIE program in global cities such as Miami, Montreal or Hong Kong!
Experiencing a world-class university is the perfect opportunity to think outside the box, make international connections and broaden your perspectives. Plus, the training and international references will also make you stand out on your CV. This marks the beginning of your international journey: If you’re also interested in working in Germany, make sure to check these German Job Boards for Expats for the hottest jobs!
You will also receive an official certificate at the end, which you can attach to your next job application. For instance, this can help you land your next working student job in Germany. Click here to explore what a working student in Germany is and how to apply.
Can I join a UAL Short Course as a high school student?
Sure, you can do a UAL Short Course as a student! It’s a fantastic way to try out your creative skills in art or design while exploring beautiful London. You’ll also improve your English along the way. But beware, there are only certain courses that are specifically designed for teenagers and students.
Who knows, maybe you’ll soon be a real student at UAL? Of course, the university also offers many creative courses. If you are still at school, you could sign up for a Girl’s Day (STEM Careers Initiative) and get a taste of the world of work for a day.
A UAL Short Course really is the perfect blend if you’re looking for international experience and a career boost without planning a full semester abroad. Imagine this: You spend a few incredible weeks in London learning from the best and gaining new knowledge that will take your CV to the next level. By the way, here are 5 resumé myths that you should avoid.
There are so many different topics and time periods to choose from — there’s something for everyone. And if you don’t like it that much, it’s only ever a few days and you can explore another topic afterwards. As a side note: it’s also a learning experience to find out what you’re not so good at — short courses are perfect for that too! Maybe you’ll realize afterwards that you would prefer to do a volunteer program first? Here’s more information on how to become a volunteer at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
At the same time, you get to know great people and expand your network. Sounds good, right? It’s a unique opportunity to combine both your creative goals and professional dreams. Again, give it a try!
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