Doctoral Programs

PhD Apparel Manufacturing

Introduction

PhD in Apparel Manufacturing is a program which brings together diverse disciplines of natural sciences, material science, textiles, fashion, design, and clothing for the development of novel solutions for the contemporary problems and future challenges in the world of Textiles.

Mission Statement

The PhD Apparel Manufacturing program is dedicated to developing leaders and experts through research-driven innovation and industry-relevant expertise to shape the future of the global apparel industry. The program aims to contribute to the sustainable socio-economic development of society by developing cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration that meets international standards in apparel design and manufacturing, with an emphasis on value addition, automation, process excellence, and sustainability.

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

PEOs No

PEO Description

PEO 1

To carry out research of international standard aimed at advancing the global textiles and associated knowledge in general and indigenous textiles in specific.

PEO 2

To enhance the intellectual development of PhD graduates through creativity, analytical thinking, critical analysis, and innovative problem-solving.

Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)

 

PLOs No

PLO Title

PLO Description

1

Advanced Knowledge

Knowledge of the conceptual foundations, fundamental ideas, and the latest developments in the apparel manufacturing industry, such as sustainable practices, design technologies, digital manufacturing, automation, wearable technology, and process excellence.

2

Innovation and Problem-Solving

Identify challenges and opportunities within the apparel manufacturing industry and apply innovative but sustainable solutions through creative thinking, technological advancements, and process optimization.

3

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Graduates will possess the skills to collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines, such as material science, engineering, design, business, and sustainability, to foster cross-functional solutions and holistic approaches to apparel manufacturing challenges.

4

Ethical and Sustainable Practices

Awareness of ethical considerations and sustainable practices within the apparel industry, aiming to minimize environmental impact, ensure worker welfare, and promote socially responsible manufacturing.

 

First Semester

Code Course Title Credit Hours
DC-7101  Scientific Methods for Research  3
DC-7102  Recent Trends in Textile Materials and  Processess  3
DC-7103  Recent Trends in Clothing and Fashion  3
   Total  9

Second Semester

Code Course Title Credit Hours
 DC-7XXX  Elective – I  3
 DC-7XXX  Elective – II  3
 DC-7XXX  Elective – III  3
  Total  9
 

Semester III - VIII

Code Course Title Credit Hours
 DC-9090  Research Thesis  30
  Total Credit Hours  48
 


Proposed elective courses

Clothing Product Development
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the entire lifecycle of clothing products, from initial concept to final market release. The course covers essential stages such as product planning (market research, trend forecasting etc.), Concept development (design, material selection etc.), prototyping (pattern making and production etc.). By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in clothing product development, equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to innovate and succeed in the fashion industry.
Recommended Books:

  • Apparel Product Development by Maurice J. Johnson and Evelyn C. Moore, 2019
  • Product Design and Development by Karl T. Ulrich and Steven D. Eppinger, 2020
  • Lean Product and Process Development by Allen C. Ward and Durward K. Sobek, 2019

Virtual Prototyping
This course deals with the cutting-edge techniques of digital garment creation, focusing on the use of advanced software to design and simulate clothing in a virtual environment. This course covers the fundamentals of 3D modeling, digital pattern making, fabric simulation, and virtual fitting. Students will explore industry-standard tools such as CLO 3D and Gerber Blender, learning to create lifelike digital prototypes that streamline the design process and reduce the need for physical samples. The course emphasizes the benefits of virtual prototyping, including faster turnaround times, cost savings, and enhanced sustainability. By the end of the course, participants will be proficient in virtual fashion prototyping, ready to innovate and lead in the evolving landscape of digital fashion design.
Recommended Books:

  • Digital Fashion Innovations: From 2D to 3D by Holly Fulton, 2021
  • 3D Fashion Design: Technique, Design and Visualization by Thomas Makryniotis, 2020

Sustainable Practices in Apparel Manufacturing
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of sustainable methods and practices in the apparel industry. The course covers key concepts such as eco-friendly materials, ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and energy-efficient production techniques. Students will explore the environmental and social impacts of traditional manufacturing and learn how to implement sustainable alternatives throughout the supply chain. Topics include sustainable fabric sourcing, green manufacturing technologies, circular fashion principles, and certifications like Fair Trade and GOTS. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainability initiatives in apparel manufacturing, contributing to a more ethical and environmentally friendly industry.
Recommended Books:

  • Sustainable Fashion and Textiles: Design Journeys by Kate Fletcher, 2019
  • Fashionopolis: The Price of Fast Fashion and the Future of Clothes by Dana Thomas, 2019
  • Sustainable Apparel: Production, Processing, and Recycling by Richard Blackburn, 2019

Fashion Technology and Wearable electronics
This course explores the innovative intersection of fashion and technology, focusing on the design, development, and application of wearable electronics. This course covers fundamental concepts of smart textiles, electronic components, and integration techniques. Students will delve into the basics of circuit design, sensor technology, and microcontrollers, learning how to embed these elements seamlessly into clothing and accessories. The course also addresses issues of usability, comfort, and aesthetics, ensuring that wearable tech is both functional and stylish. By the end of the course, participants will be proficient in the principles and practices of fashion technology, ready to pioneer new developments in the rapidly evolving field of wearable electronics.
Recommended Books:

  • Soft Circuits: Crafting e-Fashion with DIY Electronics by Kylie Peppler, Yasmin B. Kafai, and Leah Buechley, 2021
  • Wearable Electronics: Design, prototype, and wear your own interactive garments" by Kate Hartman, 2020
  • Fashionable Technology: The Intersection of Design, Fashion, Science, and Technology by Sabine Seymour, 2019

Optimization of Apparel Production Processes
This course provides an in-depth exploration of strategies and methodologies for optimizing apparel production processes. In order to increase productivity, cut waste, and improve efficiency, students will learn how to apply the concepts of operations research and management. Principles of lean manufacturing, production scheduling and planning, resource allocation, workflow optimization, and performance evaluation are among the subjects addressed. The use of advanced analytical methods to solve practical issues in the clothing industry, such as mathematical modeling and simulation, will be emphasized. Students will get the practical knowledge and analytical abilities necessary to promote innovation and continuous improvement in garment manufacturing processes through case studies, practical exercises, and industry projects.
Recommended Books:

  • Manufacturing Excellence and Quality Management in Sustainable Fashion Apparel By Liviu Ghiuzan · 2024.
  • Productivity Improvement in Apparel Manufacturing By Paul F. Bowes 2020.
  • Research papers

Project management in the Apparel Industry
This course aims to educate the students about the globally recognized standards and guides of project management that could be helpful in efficient management of individual project in clothing industry. The students will be educated about the key concepts of project management including developed norms, methods, processes and practices. The course will develop project management skills in student by focusing on different areas like scope management, time management, cost management, risk management, human resource management, and quality management.
Recommended Books:

  • A guide to the project management body of Knowledge (PMBOK), 5th Edition, 2013
  • Handbook of Research on Project Management Strategies and Tools for Organizational Success by Flor Nancy Diaz Piraquive, 2020
  • Project management, R. Gupta, 2014.
  • Research papers

Ethical Labor Practices in Apparel Manufacturing
This course aims to explore the complex issues surrounding ethical labor practices in the apparel manufacturing industry. Students will examine the social, economic, and environmental implications of labor practices throughout the apparel supply chain, with a focus on promoting fair and safe working conditions, ensuring workers' rights, and fostering sustainable production practices. Topics covered include international labor standards, corporate social responsibility (CSR), labor laws and regulations, worker empowerment, supply chain transparency, and stakeholder engagement. Through case studies, guest lectures, and interactive discussions, students will develop a deep understanding of ethical labor practices and their importance in shaping a more sustainable and socially responsible apparel industry.
Recommended Books:

  • Workers' Rights and Labor Compliance in Global Supply by Jennifer Bair, ‎ Doug Miller, ‎ Marsha Dickson · 2013
  • Ethics in the Fashion Industry by V. Ann; Hillery Paulins · 2020
  • Ethical Issues in the Fashion Industry by Barbara Beltran Torres · 2021

Consumer Behavior and Sustainable Fashion
This course aims to explore how consumer behavior and sustainable fashion intersect with the production of clothing. Students will investigate how customer attitudes, preferences, and purchase decisions in the fashion industry are influenced by psychological, social, and cultural aspects. Furthermore, the course will examine the increasing consumer expectations for fashion that are created sustainably and ethically, as well as the tactics used by clothing brands to achieve these demands. Students will learn about the opportunities and difficulties of promoting sustainability in fashion through case studies, research projects, and group discussions. They will also explore tactics for getting customers to engage in more socially and ecologically conscious purchasing.
Recommended Books:

  • A Practical Guide to Sustainable Fashion by Alison Gwilt, 2020
  • Consumer Behaviour and Sustainable Fashion Consumption by Subramanian Senthilkannan Muthu 2019.
  • Innovation Management and Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Responsibility as Competitive Advantage by Reinhard Altenburger, 2018
  • Research Papers

Supply Chain Optimization in Apparel Manufacturing
This course offers a thorough analysis of supply chain optimization tactics and ideas in relation to the production of clothing. From obtaining raw materials to shipping completed goods to customers, students will investigate the complexities of the garment supply chain and discover how to use optimization strategies to boost productivity, save expenses, and increase sustainability. Inventory control, production scheduling, distribution, logistics, and working with vendors and merchants are among the subjects addressed. Students will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to design and manage flexible, adaptable, and sustainable supply chains in the apparel industry through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects.
Recommended Books:

  • Supply Chain Performance Measurement in Textile Enterprises, by Pranav C. Charkha, Santosh B. Jaju, Prasenjit Chatterjee · 2024.
  • Supply Chain Risk Management in the Apparel Industry by Peter Cheng, Kin Keung Lai, Yelin Fu · 2020.
  • Optimizing Decision Making in the Apparel Supply Chain Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) From Production to Retail by W. K. Wong, Calvin Wong, Z. X. Guo, S Y S Leung · 2013

Entrepreneurship management in textile and apparel industry
The "Entrepreneurship Management in Textile and Apparel Industry" course equips students with essential skills for launching and managing ventures in this dynamic sector. Covering market analysis, trend forecasting, sustainable practices, and technological innovations, the course provides a comprehensive overview of the industry. Key topics include business planning, funding, supply chain management, and global sourcing. Students engage in hands-on projects and explore case studies of successful entrepreneurs, learning strategic decision-making, brand development, and ethical business practices. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to create and manage successful textile and apparel enterprises.
Recommended Books:

  • "Fashion Entrepreneurship: Retail Business Planning" by Michele M. Granger and Tina M. Sterling
  • "Entrepreneurship in the Fashion Industry" by Melissa G. Carr and Lisa Hopkins

Forensic and criminal investigations of textile and apparel
The "Forensic and Criminal Investigations of Textile and Apparel" course delves into the scientific methods and techniques used in examining textile and apparel evidence in criminal cases. Students learn about fiber analysis, fabric identification, and the role of textiles in crime scene investigations. The curriculum covers topics such as forensic microscopy, chemical testing, and the legal aspects of forensic evidence. Case studies and practical labs provide hands-on experience in analyzing and interpreting textile evidence, preparing students for careers in forensic science, law enforcement, and related fields.
Recommended Books:

  • "Forensic Examination of Fibres" by James Robertson, Claude Roux, and Kenneth G. Wiggins
  • "Clothing and Textile Forensics" by Nigel N. Meeks

Biomechanical properties of textile and clothing
The "Biomechanical Properties of Textile and Clothing" course explores the interaction between textiles and the human body, focusing on how materials respond to physical forces. Students study the mechanical behavior of fibers, yarns, and fabrics, including elasticity, strength, and durability. The curriculum covers the principles of biomechanics, material testing methods, and the design of functional clothing for various applications, such as sports, medical, and protective wear. Through laboratory experiments and case studies, students gain practical knowledge in assessing and optimizing the performance of textile products, preparing them for careers in textile engineering and design.
Recommended Books:

  • "Biomechanical Engineering of Textiles and Clothing" edited by Yan Li and Xianyi Zeng
  • "Textile-Based Biomaterials: Structures, Components, and Applications" edited by Xiaoming Tao

Circular Fashion
This course explores the application of circular economy principles to the fashion industry, with the goal of extending the life cycles of fashion products and creating a closed-loop system. The aim is to minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry by designing, producing, using, and then recycling or repurposing clothing items in a sustainable manner. The curriculum provides a thorough examination of the traditional linear model of fashion consumption, as well as the emerging circular model. Students will delve into the comprehensive exploration of the principles, practices, and innovative solutions that are driving the transition towards a circular fashion economy. Through case studies, interactive workshops, and cutting-edge research, students will gain a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in transforming the fashion industry to become a more sustainable, circular, and equitable future.
Recommended Books:

  • "Circular Fashion: A Systems Approach to Sustainable Clothing and Textile Value Chains" by Kate Fletcher and Lynda Grose (2022)
  • "Circular Economy in Textiles and Apparel: Processing, Manufacturing, and Design" edited by Rajkishore Nayak and Rajiv Padhye (2019)

Functional Clothing
Clothing is not just about fashion and aesthetics, it serves critical functional purposes that enhance human performance, protection, and comfort in various environments and activities. This course offers a thorough analysis of specifically designed and engineered clothing having predefined performance requirements for the end user. In this course, the students will study the key protection requirement under harsh environmental conditions during work, sports, outdoor recreation, and other specialized applications. The curriculum covers the impact of advanced knowledge and research about fibers, fabrics, finishes and apparel manufacturing techniques on the development and performance of functional clothing. Through hands-on laboratory experiments and in-depth case studies, students will gain practical experience in the key aspects of functional clothing development. This includes product design and prototyping, material characterization, and performance optimization techniques. They will be able to apply their understanding of functional fabrics, garment construction, and performance testing to enhance product development, quality assurance, and overall innovation in this dynamic field.
Recommended Books:

  • "High-Performance Apparel: Materials, Development, and Applications" edited by Jinlian Hu (2017)
  • "Multifunctional Clothing for Outdoor Activities" edited by Jintu Fan and Winnie Yu (2021)
  • "High-Performance Sportswear" edited by Guowen Song and Jintu Fan (2020)

Automation/Digitalization in Apparel Manufacturing
The apparel industry is undergoing a profound digital transformation, revolutionizing the way clothing is designed, produced, and brought to market. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the emerging digital technologies, tools, and processes that are reshaping modern apparel manufacturing. The curriculum will cover knowledge about key aspects of innovation not limited to computer-aided design (CAD), 3D virtual prototyping, digital textile printing, smart factory automation, internet of things (IOT), product lifecycle management, omnichannel retailing and personalized customer experiences. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to leverage cutting-edge digital technologies to drive efficiency, innovation, and sustainability in the apparel industry.
Recommended Books:

  • "The Digital Transformation of the Apparel and Textile Supply Chain" by Pamela Ravasio (2021)
  • "Fashion Tech: Innovative Technology in Fashion" edited by Brigitte Borja de Mozota and Dominique Sciamma (2022)
  • "Smart Factories in Industry 4.0: Manufacturing, Automation, and Autonomous Systems" edited by Shaukat Ali, Liu Zheng, and Mujeeb Ur Rehman (2021)

 

Career opportunities for students after Completion of the Program

The graduate of this program would be able to get job and progress opportunities in diverse areas, some of them include:

  • Technical professionals for sewn product industry (home textile, garment, leather, shoe industry, denim industry, etc.)
  • Research and development in public and private sector organization
  • Fashion brands, fashion and textile industry or any prestigious design insttitues.
  • Teaching and research at university/post graduate college.

 

Admission Criteria

  1. MS / M.Phil or equivalent degree in Clothing, Textile Design, Fashion Design, Visual Arts, Home Economics, Apparel Technology, Arts and Design, Economics, Graphic Design, Merchandizing, Interior Design, Advanced Clothing & Fashion or equivalent with minimum 3.00/4.00 or 3.50/5.00  CGPA in semester system or 60% marks in annual system or equivalent.
  2. Applicants having terminal degrees as prescribed in condition no. 01, are required to qualify NTU-GAT (General) test with minimum 60% score while applicants having different terminal degree are required to qualify NTU-GAT (Subject) test additionally with minimum 50% score as per HEC.
  3. Applicant having MS or equivalent degree without thesis is not eligible to apply.
  4. It is mandatory to pass interview in order to compete on merit.
  5. Applicant must not be already registered as a student in any other academic program in Pakistan or abroad.
  6. Result waiting applicants may apply for admission, however their merit will be finalized only on submission of final MS/M.Phil or equivalent official transcript or degree.
  7. Relevant Admission Committee will determine relevancy of terminal degree and decide deficiency course/s (if any) at the time of admission interview, the detail of which will be provided to the student in his/her admission letter/email.
  8. Deficiency course/s will be treated as non-credit and qualifying course/s for which student will also pay extra dues as per fee policy. Those course/s will neither be mentioned in student’s final transcript nor will be included for calculation of CGPA. However, the student may obtain his/her a separate transcript for completion of deficiency course/s.

Merit Criteria:

The applicants shall be evaluated according to the following criterion for admission merit list:

  • BS/Equivalent 20% 
  • MS or Equivalent 60%
  • Publication/Relevant experience 10% (05% + 05%) 
  • Interview 10%

Fee Structure of Postgraduate Programs for Admission 2025

Programs Total One Time Dues at Admission (Rupees) Tuition Fee (1st Semester) (Rupees) Total Other Charges (Per Semester) (Rupees) Total 1st Semester Dues (Rupees)
Ph.D. Apparel Manufacturing 32,400 42,150 8,000 82,550

 

Detail of One Time Admission Dues and Other Charges

Particulars Rupees
Admission Fee (Once at admission) 25,000
Certificate Verification Fee (Once at admision) 2,000
University Security (Refundable) 5,000
Red Crescent Donation (Once at admision) 100
University Card Fee (Once at admision) 300
Library Fee (Per Semester) 3,000
Examination Fee (Per Semester) 3,000
Medical Fee (Per Semester) 2,000
Student Activity Fund (Per Semester) 2,000
Endowment Fund (Per Semester) 1,000
Degree Fee (Once in the Last Semester) 5,000
Total 32,400

 

Note:

  1. Tuition Fee will increase @ 2.5% Per Annum in Subsequent Years.
  2. The security deposit is against breakage and/or any other damage caused by the students.
  3. The security deposit is refundable within two year after the completion of degree or leaving the University without completion or expulsion from the University. After Two years all the unclaimed securities will be forfeited.
  4. If any student fails to submit semester dues till sixth week from the commencement of semester then the student's admission will be cancelled. Student may sit in mid exam after the payment of re-admission fee of Rs.15,000/- long with semester dues

 

HEC National Fee Refund Policy

Application for a refund of Fee can be made by completing the appropriate form and submitting the proof of payment.

REFUNDABLE FEE:

Tuition Fee:

The Refund of Tuition Fee is Subject to the following schedule:

TimelinePercentage of Fee
Upto 10th day of commencement of classes 100% fee refund
Upto 15th day of commencement of classes 80% fee refund
Upto 20th day of commencement of classes 60% fee refund
Upto 30th day of commencement of classes 50% fee refund
31st day onwards of commencement of classes No Refund

Note: The timelines for refund of tuition fee are inclusive of the weekends.

Library Fee:

The library/digital library fee is completely refundable.

Transport Fee:

The transport fee is 100% refundable minus (-) the days a student has availed of that facility(es).

Security/Deposit Fee:

This fee is refundable after deductions are made for the damage/loss (if any) caused by the student.

Examination Fee:

The fee submitted as an examination fee is completely refundable.

Fee for Curricular/Co-Curricular Activities:

The Curricular/co-curricular, extra-curricular, fee is 100% refundable minus (-) the days a student has availed of that activity(es).

NON-REFUNDABLE FEE:

Admission Fee and Registration/Application Fee are non-refundable.

Certificate Verification Fee, Card Fee, Red Crescent Fund, Medical Examination Fee, Exhibition Fee and Endowment Fund are also non-refundable.