Summary
- Duration
- Full Time: 3 years
- Fees
- Full Time: £9,000 per year
2012/13 (International): £9,900 per year
Overview
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.
Course Outline
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.
After your studies
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.