Leather Technology (Professional)

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold a recognised first or second class honours degree from a UK university or international equivalent in a relevant subject area. Students with lower level qualifications or qualifications in a different subject area, but relevant experience in the leather industry will also be considered on an individual basis.

If you do not meet our standard entry requirements, it is possible to undertake a single or a number of modules. The non-credit bearing course is called ‘Professional Leather Development’ Course, for further information about this course please visit our website

Months of entry

January

Course content

The leather industry is packed with exciting career opportunities and this course is an excellent route in if you have a science or technology background. It’s also a great way to expand your knowledge and skills if you are already in the leather industry.

You will focus on the science and technology of leather manufacture in a way that will prepare you for senior tannery positions. As you develop a critical mind, this course is an excellent base for a move into Research and Development departments in chemical companies, tanneries and brands, or into an academic career.

Leather is returning to prominence as nearly all alternatives require the use of non-renewable carbon-based materials. Scientific advances combined with environmental responsibility have transformed the leather manufacture industry into a modern scientific process, creating a highly sustainable material with high value in many sectors such as sports, automobiles, luxury goods and fashion.

Northampton graduates have been at the forefront of these changes making our leather alumni one of the best bodies in the industry. When you finish this course you can expect easy access into senior industry positions.

This course is ideal for corporate continuing personal development and is delivered so that you are only away from your work for three months, January to March. During this period, the theory and practical elements are taught intensively, allowing you to return to work while you continue with your assessments and research. Alternatively, you can study in the traditional manner, over an entire year on-site at the University of Northampton.

Our unique MSc in Leather Technology (Professional) will give you the opportunity to enhance your technical skills. We encourage you to develop intellectual creativity and we will provide you with the skills you need to research advanced technologies. You will learn how to discern the differences between technical and entrepreneurial issues, relating them to the needs of the leather industry.

You will have the chance to work in our tannery with industry and academic experts. Our staff carry our research in various leather subjects, achieving our reputation as a world-leading institute in the field of leather.

We frequently invite industry leaders to meet and teach you, covering current technical and commercial aspects of leather, covering farm to fashion, including many of its fascinating end uses.

Our course is flexible to meet your needs. You must complete seven modules and a research dissertation, of which you will be able to choose one or two to tailor your studies to your interests and career aspirations.

Information for international students

Applicants for whom English is not their first language will need to demonstrate that they meet the minimum English language requirement of IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).