Horology is the art and science of time measurement, and the study of devices, both mechanical and electronic, used to show the passing of time. The proposed course is designed to attract, train and educate students in horology, with particular emphasis on employability skills tailored to meet the growing global demand for qualified Watch and Clockmakers to the industry standard.

Please note: This course is currently subject to validation.

Key Facts

• A precise, practical approach to the study, design and production of timekeeping devices, offering traditional and modern techniques relevant to watch/clock making and restoration.
• Design and construct, or restore a significant horological mechanism using fine hand and machining skills.
• Benefit from the experience of practising professional horologists and colleagues in a shared learning environment.
• Undertake the professionally accredited qualifications of the British Horological Institute.
• Build a series of portfolios of clock/watch repairs and restorations as proof of your professional capabilities.
• Strong employability record with students recently taking up places with watch companies such as Cartier, Patek Phillippe, Swatch, Tag Heuer, and bespoke clock restoration businesses such as Robert Loomes and Co, and Time in Hand.
• A unique and prestigious learning environment - founded in 1890, the internationally renowned School of Jewellery is the largest school of its kind in Europe.
• Based in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter where an estimated 40 per cent of jewellery is made in Britain today - premium exposure to industry practice.
• The School enjoys a working relationship with companies such as Cartier, London; Georg Jensen, Denmark; and Weston Beamor in the Jewellery Quarter.

Why Choose Us?

• Bring the theory of mechanical timekeeping to life, through workshop practice and measured drawing, and explore complex automatic watches, chronographs and calendar watches.
• You’re supported by experienced staff and visiting tutors who share their expertise in practice, research and design techniques, and inspire through example.
• Almost 80 per cent of respondents to the National Student Survey praised the enthusiasm of Creative Arts and Design staff, and the clear way they explained their subject.
• School of Jewellery is part of Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD) - one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious institutes of art, architecture and design education.
• In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, a total of 60 per cent of BIAD research was judged to be of ‘world-leading’ or internationally excellent quality.
• The Times Good University Guide 2010 ranks our Art and Design research in the UK’s top 10 – the highest-ranked institution outside London.

Further Studies

For further information on courses Tel: +44(0)121 331 5595 or go direct to the courses section of the website.

Employment Opportunities

You will have the choice of entering the service industries for modern watch and clock servicing, antique clock and watch restoration, retail sales or self employment.

Students in the recent years have found employment with global watch brand leaders such as Patek Philippe, Cartier, Rolex, Swatch, Tag Heuer, and Richard Mille, and significant specialist restoration/repair businesses such as Robert Loomes & Co., Time in Hand and Steven Hale Watch Restoration. As well as setting up one's own repair business, employment destinations exist away from the bench with auction houses like Fellows Auction House in Birmingham, and Bonhams of London.

Course Structure

Within a unique, stimulating and dynamic environment, the School of Jewellery’s Horology department embraces the School of Jewellery philosophy of the pursuit of excellence, creating an environment where students can acquire the education and skill set necessary to meet the growing demands of the horological world and begin a process of lifelong learning.

Through a well-established learning and teaching strategy of enquiry, investigation and analysis, the Horology programme encourages innovation and intellectual engagement within a supportive atmosphere. Students will develop their practical and critical thinking skills, through cognitive interaction with the subject, alongside the growth of their personal and professional identity.

Underpinned by the core values surrounding employability and the student experience, the curriculum is designed to deliver both the traditional skills and encourage the exploration and use of developing technologies to meet modern standards while introducing a broader range of studies to prepare for vocational practice that will allow the student the choice and opportunity to specialise within the diverse world of horology with confidence.

Learning experience

The academic structure of the new course is designed, via 16 modules, to allow students to simultaneously gain the qualifications of the British Horological Institute at the highest professional level, and secure a degree level academic qualification. While following the delivery of well-established traditional and modern niche skills of repair, conservation and restoration required for watch and clock making, there will be elements that embed transferable employability skills through Business, CAD and Critical Studies Modules. The introduction of reflective and evaluative practice will form a fundamental thread throughout, culminating in the production of a student 'Masterpiece' that showcases the skills acquisition across the course.

Entry Requirements

A good portfolio plus one of the following:

• 280 tariff points
• BTEC National Diploma overall grade DMM
• Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Studies with merit or distinction in the final stage
• International Baccalaureate with 28 points
• Equivalent qualifications or experience

Interview & Portfolio Guidance

Enquiries

Prospective students from the UK or EU may enquire online by using the Course Enquiry Form or call +44 (0)121 331 5595.

Prospective students from non-EU countries may enquire via the International Enquiry Form or call +44 (0)121 331 6714.