Leather Technology BSc (Hons)

• Overview

  For those interested in a technological or scientific qualification that will lead to an opportunity to work and travel within a manufacturing industry, the benefits offered by this course are outstanding. With a wave of retirements of the Boomer Generation within the next decade, the industry, which is already short of technically skilled staff, is searching for well-trained young executives to support and prepare for these senior positions.

  We will support you to achieve your career and study ambitions, which is why if you complete our Employability Plus Gold programme or Changemaker Gold certificate alongside your studies and if you haven’t secured full-time employment 12 months after graduating* we will secure a three – six month paid internship for you, or support you into postgraduate study.

  *with a 2:2 degree classification or higher

  Course

  Highlights

  • This course is unique to the University of Northampton.
  • Bursaries and scholarships available for leather students.
  • Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.

  HP Laptop and software included with this course.

  Apply Now Open Days

  
• Course Details

  This course is unique in the UK and makes our graduates highly sought after by employers. Through this course you are able to specialise in and focus on an aspect of the leather industry that you find particularly interesting. You will be exposed to a number of science disciplines and interact with industrial experts during workshops and seminars.

  Our three year Honours degree course is a complete preparation for entry into the leather industry. Our graduates can work in tanneries and leather chemical companies around the world with an increasing demand for leather skills amongst the top leather-using brands that include companies in the sports, luxury goods, footwear, automotive and fashion sectors.

  Structure

  There are compulsory and optional modules that contribute to the total number of credits required for each pathway within the BSc (Hons) degree. The course contains theory sessions with a high proportion of practical content which is undertaken in our laboratories (this may be subject to the pathway). 60 credits of the study programme comprises of compulsory modules across all pathways. You must then select a named pathway to obtain an additional 60 credits ensuring that your total number of credits is 120 for each year. The three possible pathways with their particular focus are discussed below:

  • Leather Science pathway: fosters the values and attitudes needed for work in a scientific leather discipline with an in depth understanding of leather manufacture.
  • Marketing pathway: combines a blend of theoretical marketing principles with the application to real life business scenarios.
  • Business pathway: focuses on the tools and skills that are required in order to drive the leather industry forward.

  Assessments

  The course content is assessed utilising a variety of assessment methods such as practical reports, assignments, presentations, reflective portfolios and examinations.

   

  Read more

  Additional

  Information

  Methods of Learning

  Within this highly practical degree you can expect to spend a considerable amount of time in our working tannery and chemistry laboratories. You will acquire an extensive knowledge of the manufacturing process as well as the properties of leather. You will also develop an expertise in the technical practical skills that are necessary for future career progression, additionally you will, depending on the specialist route that you choose, examine in depth the marketing and business aspects within the context of the leather industry. Consequently, you will gain the skills and confidence to enter a number of industries, not just those relating to leather.

  You are also invited to attend some of the professional courses offered by the Institute for Creative Leather Technologies (ICLT) at the university to further enhance your repertoire of skills.

• Careers and Events
  • The Northampton Employment Promise.

    *We promise to secure paid experience for you, if you need it.

    We work with employers to understand what they’re looking for and we’re confident that if you follow one of our structured awards, as well as committing to your studies you’ll be in a competitive position when it comes to applying for graduate jobs.

    We’re so confident, that we promise to secure a paid 3-6 month internship for you, if you need it. Find out more about the Northampton Employment Promise, including how it works and who is eligible.

    
  • Open Days

    Discover your Course

    Our Open Days offer you a fantastic opportunity to get a real taste of university life at Northampton and discover how studying here will be a life-changing experience.

    Each Open Day has a packed programme of subjects talks, advice sessions and activities designed to give you all the information you need about studying with us.

    To find out more about the day, please feel free to have a look at our Open Day Guide.

    
  • Careers

    Career Opportunities

    Graduates from this programme are in high demand and the university receives more requests from employers than we have graduates to fill them.

    For the last three years, 100% of our graduates have gained employment with a range of companies in a number of different countries around the world (internal statistics).

    Our graduates have entered into the technical management within the leather industry as well as chemical sales, and technical support within research and development departments in a number of areas not just those with a leather focus.

    Graduates have also become advisers on leather purchasing for companies using leather, including clothing, upholstery and automotive industries.

    
• Requirements

  Entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) Leather Technology are a minimum of CCC at A-Level or MMM at BTEC. In addition, applicants are expected to have studied a physical and/or biological science subject at A-level or an equivalent qualification. We also welcome applicants from national and international students with significant prior experience in the leather industry.

  Potential students from a creative background will be considered on their GCSE science grades and advised not to take Leather Science as a 20-credit module choice but take a marketing- or business-based module instead. There is a weekly science club for these students which they are advised to attend.

  For more more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

  If you are an International student and would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

  Foundation Study Framework Entry Requirements

  Admission to this foundation programme is normally DEE at A-Level or MPP at BTEC. However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the programme you wish to study.

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
    for study at undergraduate level.

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  Contacts

  Course enquiries
  study@northampton.ac.uk

  Application status enquiries
  admissions2019@northampton.ac.uk

  Current student enquiries
  SID@northampton.ac.uk

  International student enquiries
  international@northampton.ac.uk

  Enquire online
  Online enquiry form

  Applying for 2019
  Facebook Applicant Group

  Office hours:
  Mon – Thu: 9am – 5pm
  Fri: 9am – 4.30pm

  Phone Call

  0300 303 2772

  +44 (0)1604 892134

  +44 (0)1604 892546

• Course Content
  • Stage 1
  • Stage 2
  • Stage 3
  • Foundation

  • Leather Technology and Materials Evaluation - Raw to Tanned (30 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1013

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Technology and Materials Evaluation - Tanned to Crust (30 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1014

    Core Module Y
  • Raw Materials and End Use (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1004

    Core Module Y
  • Surface Coatings 1 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1011

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Science 1 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1009

    Core Module N
  • Foundations of Marketing (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1001

    Core Module N
  • Introduction to Marketing Communications (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1002

    Core Module N
  • Introduction to Management (20 Credits)
    Module code: BUS1004

    Core Module N
  • Enterprise and Opportunity (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1003

    Core Module N

  • Leather Technology 2 (40 Credits)
    Module code: LEA2001

    Core Module Y
  • Materials Evaluation 2 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA2008

    Core Module Y
  • Surface Coatings 2 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA2006

    Core Module Y
  • Cleaner Leather Manufacture (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA2010

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Science 2 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA2007

    Core Module N
  • Integrated Marketing Communication (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT2011

    Core Module N
  • Operations Management 1 (20 Credits)
    Module code: BSO2003

    Core Module N
  • Information Technology for Business (20 Credits)
    Module code: BSO2017

    Core Module N

  • Project (40 Credits)
    Module code: LEA4001

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Technology 3 (40 Credits)
    Module code: LEA3001

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Manufacture and Sustainability (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA3005

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Science 3 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA3004

    Core Module N
  • Supply Chain Operations Management (20 Credits)
    Module code: BSO3008

    Core Module N
  • Principles of Marketing Management (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT3017

    Core Module N

  The Foundation Study Framework is studied over two stages and will help you to develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you will need in order to successfully progress to the full award. Once you have completed the two stages you will be able to progress on to Stage Two of the course. Students must take all compulsory modules plus one designated module

  • Investigations into your Subject Area 1: Science & Health (40 Credits)
    Module code: FDN012

    Core Module Y
  • Investigations into your Subject Area 2: Science & Health (40 Credits)
    Module code: FDN015

    Core Module Y
  • Raw Materials and End Use (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1004

    Core Module Y
  • Surface Coatings 1 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1011

    Core Module Y
  • Investigations into your Subject Area 3: Changemaking (40 Credits)
    Module code: FDN016

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Technology and Materials Evaluation - Raw to Tanned (30 Credits)
    Module code: LEA013

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Technology and Materials Evaluation - Tanned to Crust (30 Credits)
    Module code: LEA014

    Core Module Y
  • Leather Science 1 (20 Credits)
    Module code: LEA1009

    Core Module N
  • Foundations of Marketing (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1001

    Core Module N
  • Introduction to Marketing Communications (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1002

    Core Module N
  • Introduction to Management (20 Credits)
    Module code: BUS1004

    Core Module N
  • Enterprise and Opportunity (20 Credits)
    Module code: MKT1003

    Core Module N

  • Reading List
    • Covington, A.D., 2009. Tanning Chemistry. The Science of Leather. (1st Ed) RSC Publishing.
    • Sharphouse, J.H., 1983. Leather Technician’s Handbook. (2nd Ed) Leather Producers Association.
    • Daniels, R., 2013. The Framework for Leather Manufacture (1st Ed) WTP.
    • World Leather Trade Magazine
    • Leather International Trade Magazine
    • International Leather Maker Magazine
    • JSLTC / ALCA Journals

  Module information is quoted for 17/18 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

  Facilities &

  Special Features

  As the UK’s only university to integrate leather technology with fashion, marketing, business and environmental concerns, we are proud to house an on-campus working tannery for practical leather making as well as laboratories to enable leather testing.

  • the University has an on campus tannery and laboratories for teaching
  • there are a variety of modules to cater for leather career choices practical leather making and testing
  • industry-led practical workshops and seminars in technology and supply chain knowledge delivered by international experts,
  • annual industry-supported week-long trip to Italy to visit leather, machinery and chemical industries
  • continual networking with potential employers within the industry
  • opportunities to attend international leather fairs in Hong Kong, Milan and Shanghai
  • bursaries and scholarships available for leather students
• Further Studies
  • Postgraduate Opportunities

    Further your Studies

    Our postgraduate courses are a great way to enhance the skills you have already learnt. Benefit from our 20% alumni discount on postgraduate fees to give you a CV that will catch the eye of employers.

    Leather Technology (Professional) MSc

    Leather Technology PhD

    Three Month Professional Leather Development Course

    
  • Research

    We are committed to delivering outstanding research that makes a difference to society. Our Research Institutes and Centres work closely with external partner organisations, locally, nationally and internationally. We produce internationally renowned and relevant research and disseminate knowledge on an international scale.

    Visit our Research Hub page for more information.

    
  • Business and Enterprise

    We are committed to supporting and encouraging business growth and we are involved in a variety of initiatives which seek to benefit the wider community as well as students and staff of the University.

    Discover what businesses we work with and what opportunities may be available to you on our Business and Enterprise pages.

    
• Fees & Funding
  • UK & EU
  • International

  2019/20 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 19/20 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  Full Time: £9,250
  Part Time: £1,400 per 20 credit module
  Foundation Study Framework: £6,600 as part of a four year programme (subsequent years will be charged at standard BSc rate)

  2018/19 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 18/19 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  Full Time: £9,250
  Part Time: £1,350 per 20 credit module
  Foundation Study Framework: £6,500 as part of a four year programme (subsequent years will be charged at standard BSc rate)

  Please note that tuition fees for EU students will remain the same as UK fees for 2018/19. For more information, please visit the Gov UK website.

  Additional costs
  You will need to allow for following additional over above your course fees:

  • £100 to cover PPE (one white lab coat, one blue lab coat, wellington boots and gloves) and contribution to raw material costs
  • student Membership to the Society for Leather Technologists and Chemists (six journals per year and free attendance to the Annual Conference) – Optional. £25
  • individual Spray Gun – £40 (Sponsorship may be available)
  • Italy Trip – Although the Italy Trip is heavily subsidised by industry, there is an approximate cost of £150 that students will pay to book flights and transport. The trip is not compulsory. International students will need to apply for a Schengen Visa.

  2019/20 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 19/20 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  Full Time: £12,500
  International Foundation Study Framework: £9,800

  2018/19 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 18/19 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  Full Time: £12,000
  International Foundation Study Framework: £9,400

  For information on the scholarships available to you as an international student, please see our International scholarships page.

  Additional costs
  You will need to allow for following additional over above your course fees:

  • £100 to cover PPE (one white lab coat, one blue lab coat, wellington boots and gloves) and contribution to raw material costs
  • student Membership to the Society for Leather Technologists and Chemists (six journals per year and free attendance to the Annual Conference) – Optional. £25
  • individual Spray Gun – £40 (Sponsorship may be available)
  • Italy Trip – Although the Italy Trip is heavily subsidised by industry, there is an approximate cost of £150 that students will pay to book flights and transport. The trip is not compulsory. International students will need to apply for a Schengen Visa.

  Scholarships

  EU and International Scholarships

  A merit based scholarship of up to 30% or a £3,000 reduction in the cost of tuition fees for eligible students.

  Micro-Pak Scholarship Fund

  The Micro-Pak Scholarship provides a full-time undergraduate student enrolled on a three year Leather Technology course with a financial award of £1,500 per year for…

  TD Lewis Scholarship

  The T D Lewis Scholarship provides both undergraduate and postgraduate students with financial awards of up to £1,000.  This scholarship is awarded on educational excellence…

  The Chancellor's Fund

  The Chancellor’s Fund is a bi-annual fund providing students with awards of between £100 and £1,000. You must be a current student to apply. The…

  The Leathersellers' Company Scholarship

  The Leathersellers’ Company Scholarship awards students on full-time undergraduate or postgraduate courses within the Institute for Creative Leather Technologies. Awards vary in size but have…

  The Reid Science and Engineering Bursary

  The Reid Science and Engineering Bursary supports a small number of undergraduate students who are studying a full-time three year BSc or BEng in Environmental…

  Wilson Endowment Scholarship

  The Wilson Endowment Scholarship provides a £1,500 scholarship to undergraduate students from the Northamptonshire area. The endowed scholarship was donated in memory of Mr Lynn Wilson,…

• Foundation

  Our Foundation Study Framework offers an exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the entry requirements for this course, we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year course which includes our Foundation Study Framework.

  The Foundation Study Framework will help you to develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you will need in order to successfully progress to the full award.  The Foundation Study Framework provides you with a practical and group-based approach to learning that supports your development and your transition to Higher Education, whilst also studying a number of specialist modules.

  Course Structure

  You will study two 40 credit modules that form the Foundation Study Framework experience. These are:

  • Subject Studies 1: Practical and Study Skills – provides an introduction to key concepts, theories and principles associated with the area of study.
  • Research for Practice – provides an overview of the principles of research, research methods and the learning environment of the University. It will also include an introduction to the academic languages of the subject and the learning experience of degree study.

  These modules are delivered concurrently with two Level 4 modules from your programme: LEA1004 Raw Material and End Use and LEA1011 Surface Coatings 1.

  Upon successful completion of these modules, you will progress to Stage One of BSc Leather Technology (Hons), in which you will receive further support through:

  • Subject Studies 2: Working with Ideas – focuses specifically on the generation and development of ideas, building the key IT/ literacy/numeracy skill sets required by the programme.

  Typical timetabled week of study

  Foundation Study Framework teaching may be a combination of lectures, seminars and/or workshop based sessions. The three Foundation Year modules, Subject Studies 1: Practical and Study Skills, Research for Practice and Subject Studies 2: Working with Ideas are taken in the sequence indicated above. Each one involves a teaching contact time of four hours per week and you are also expected to engage in approximately 12 hours of independent study, to support your learning experience.

  Foundation study will, therefore, help you to build a solid understanding of the general theoretical and practical aspects that will underpin Leather. Throughout all stages of your programme you will also be supported by a Personal Academic Tutor, to guide you through the learning experience and help you make informed study choices.

  Foundation study will enable you to acquire the necessary study skills to succeed in HE, as well as developing your understanding of key subject concepts delivered through taught sessions, laboratory work and practical leather making in our on-site tannery plus tutorial and online support.

  Read more

*Course data provided by Unistats