The Textile and Apparel Studies major has two emphases: The Merchandising Emphasis and the Design and Development Emphasis. The merchandising emphasis is designed to prepare students for careers in retailing and related fields. The four-year program includes studies in merchandising, marketing, and management. A minor is optional, though many students select a general business, marketing or management minor. Other related fields can also be selected as minor studies, e.g., communication, journalism, or world language.
Students who graduate with a merchandising emphasis may begin a career in one of many entry-level management positions in department, specialty, discount or boutique stores. Career opportunities also exist in the apparel and textile wholesaling fields.
The design and development emphasis is created for students interested in careers within the manufacturing production cycle of the apparel industry, such as with apparel manufacturers in design, pattern drafting, and quality control; with textile-producing companies as technicians or fashion analysts. Students will select a required career option of Product Development or Fashion Design. Individuals interested in fashion design should plan on including one year of study at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City or the American Intercontinental University in London during their junior year.
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