The Michael Bates Outreach Scholarship

The Michael Bates Outreach Scholarship has been generously funded by a gift from the Bowyer-Bates family in memory of their son, Michael Bates (BSc Clothing Engineering, 1991). 

As a student at Manchester, Michael thrived and graduated at the top of his class. He was creative, entrepreneurial and industrious and, following his studies, went on to have a successful career in textiles. He secured his first role at a clothing production factory in South Wales, before moving on to roles in clothing sourcing that led him to work in Hong Kong, China and New Delhi. Later in his career, he returned to the UK and set up his own business for sourcing and designing clothing, before moving into Property Development and Management. 

Michael sadly passed away in 2019. Michael’s family wanted to help outstanding students undertaking fashion and textile related courses to thrive at Manchester, just as Michael did, and set up this scholarship in his memory.  

There is one scholarship available for 2026 entry of £2,000 per year for up to four years (not including a placement/study abroad year). The award is open to home students (UK) who meet widening participation criteria and are studying on an undergraduate course in the Department of Materials. First preference will be given to students whose household income has been assessed as less than or equal to £35,000.  

You do not need to apply for this scholarship – the award will be made based on your UCAS application. Eligible students will then be ranked on academic merit. 

Scholarship holders will receive the scholarship annually, subject to satisfactory academic progress and performance.