Properties of fibre, yarn, fabrics and products have important implications in fields as diverse as teaching (at primary, secondary, or tertiary levels), forensics, product development (including development of technical products with active sensors or nanomaterials to improve performance); working in research for government departments or related organisations, in museums and other cultural institutions; and in distribution and merchandising nationally or internationally. As consumers we purchase clothing to communicate, protect and enhance our lives. Manufacturers produce and distribute clothing and textiles within New Zealand and around the world. University of Otago offers New Zealand’s only degree in Clothing and Textile Sciences, giving you an accredited degree recognised internationally by The Textile Institute, a worldwide body. Clothing and Textile Sciences graduates study topics such as material culture, fashion theory, physical properties of fibre, yarns, fabrics and garments from historical, social, production, distribution, conservation and performance perspectives. Such knowledge supports interesting diverse careers.

Clothing and Textile Sciences courses can lead to careers in fibre, textile and apparel sectors (in the largest industry in the world) – in research, performance assessment, management, industry based assessment, marketing/sales.