A Major with Options

Students wishing to major in Fashion Design & Management must pick between two options: Fashion Design (Option I) and Fashion Design Management (Option II). Each have their own set of requirements, outlined below.

Fashion Design (Option I)

The Fashion Design option within the Fashion Design & Management major is unique in its focus on the fashion design process, integrating conceptual design thinking with apparel skills, and design methods with innovative, cutting-edge technologies. Following three semesters of apparel and textile foundation courses, the student is ready to begin the collections studio sequence, during which they will develop their individual vision of fashion, to be expressed in a final collection. Download the curriculum and a sample schedule worksheet for this option.

Students will also take courses in other departments of the College and across the University. During the summers and occasionally during the winter break most students will do internships to explore aspects of the industry and gain experience. Many students study abroad, usually during the spring of the junior year, an important experience for anyone preparing for a career in this global industry. Students may also elect to conduct independent research or to pursue an honors project. Opportunities to participate in design competitions as well as study tours to various locations are available.

The Fashion Design curriculum is centered on a series of studio classes that are offered only once a year and must be taken in sequence. It is important to begin the sequence as soon as possible. Junior transfers are not accepted for this option.

Fashion Design graduates might consider the following career choices:

• Fashion Designer
• Footwear or Handbag Designer
• Performance Apparel Designer
• Textile Designer
• Jewelry Designer
• Technical Designer
• Theater Designer
• Trend Researcher
• Graphic Designer
• Museum or Costume Archive Curator

Fashion Design Management (Option II)

The Fashion Design Management option within the Fashion Design & Management major focuses on the processes used to design, manufacture, and market apparel and textile products. Students will explore design, materials, production and supply chain, marketing, communications, and entrepreneurship, as well as the impact of developing technologies and fashion sustainability. If you are undecided between Fashion Design (Option I) and Fashion Design Management (Option II) start with the Option I curriculum plan.

Students will take courses in other departments of the College and across the University. During the summers and occasionally during the winter break most students will do internships to explore aspects of the industry and gain experience. Many students also study abroad, usually during the spring of the junior year, an important experience for anyone preparing for a career in this global industry. Students may elect to conduct independent research or pursue an honors project. Opportunities to participate in case study or design competitions as well as study tours to various locations are available.

The Fashion Design Management curriculum is interdisciplinary, with a mixture of classes in the Department of Human Centered Design (HCD) and other departments. This allows some flexibility in scheduling. Foundation classes in HCD are generally offered just once per year and may be prerequisites for later courses so should be taken at the suggested times.

Download the curriculum and sample schedule worksheet.

Fashion Design Management graduates might consider the following career choices:

• Product Developer
• Merchandiser
• Marketing or Brand Manager
• Production Coordinator
• Retail Manager or Buyer
• Sourcing Manager
• Product Quality Manager
• Fashion Editor
• Fashion & Retail Technology Developer
• Public Relations Manager

To Apply

To apply as a Fashion Design & Management major, please contact Human Ecology Undergraduate Admissions.