Studies in textile design may present individuals with a broad exposure to fabrics and the textile field, yet may also provide focused instruction in knitting, weaving or techniques grounded in technology. Students may find foundational teaching in fabric identification, textile printing and production.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.