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 pursue a career in retail management, buying or marketing. Career opportunities also exist in the apparel and textile wholesaling fields.
The design and development emphasis prepares students for careers in the design and manufacturing production cycle of the apparel/softlines industry, careers including design, pattern drafting, and quality control, or with textile-producing companies as technicians or fashion analysts. Students select a career option of Product Development or Fashion Design. Individuals interested in the Fashion Design option should plan on including one year of study at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Regent’s University in London, England, or Florence University of the Arts in Florence, Italy to complete advanced design courses during their junior or senior year. A minor in business, communication, or art it recommended.
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