Program Intro
The Fashion Design and Development program within the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) prepares students for careers in the dynamic, fast-paced fashion industry. In the major, students learn about industrial processes and products and focus their studies to achieve specific career goals. Stimulating and challenging courses offer opportunities to develop creativity, communication, leadership, and professional skills.
Program Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a B.S. in Fashion Design and Development
Design and development professionals use their creative and technical skills to design products, develop patterns, monitor quality control and assurance and coordinate sourcing activities in apparel and soft goods companies. The major meets increasing industry demand for graduates who understand the industry's design and merchandising aspects. The design and merchandising functions are becoming more interrelated as apparel firms rely increasingly on private brands; and apparel manufacturers assume a more prominent retailing role. Students who elect this option take design, merchandising, and business courses to prepare them for challenging careers in apparel manufacturing, marketing, and retailing companies.
Recognized as the second-largest program in Michigan offering integrated merchandising and design specializations, this program is further distinguished by its accreditation from the esteemed Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (TAPAC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This dual recognition serves as a testament to the program's adherence to industry best practices and its effectiveness in preparing graduates with the requisite skills and knowledge for impactful careers in the apparel and textile industry.
What you’ll learn
You'll learn how to visually communicate ideas through illustration and develop original designs based on research and design principles. You'll gain hands-on skills in draping, pattern making and garment construction, alongside learning about textiles and industry standard software. The curriculum also covers trend forecasting, collection development and essential business aspects of the fashion world, culminating in a professional portfolio.
All of the apparel construction and design classes here really build on top of each other. Everything that I've learned has cumulated into me not only having the confidence but skill set to construct intricate garments.
Where you’ll be after graduation
Upon completion of this Bachelor of Science degree, you'll be equipped for diverse roles within the industry, with the most direct path being a fashion designer creating apparel and accessories. However, the blend of creative and technical skills also opens doors to careers as a technical designer, focusing on garment construction, or a textile designer, developing fabric designs. Furthermore, understanding the fashion market and trends makes graduates suitable for roles in fashion merchandising, retail buying, styling, and forecasting.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
What other have achieved
Learn about the successful journeys of recent program graduates and the advice they have to share for prospective WMU students.
Meet Peter
Fashion designer and trend setter; Peter rocked the runway during MODA's spring fashion show, "Rhythm N' Runway", with his Western inspired line—winning himself a scholarship award.
Meet Genesis
Winning Western's New York Fashion Week Competition, Genesis traveled to the Big Apple for a VIP experience meeting with top designers and attending The Blonds show.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
As a Fashion Design and Development major, you'll be immersed in a variety of hands-on learning experiences to cultivate your skills and industry knowledge. You'll engage in intensive studio work, where you'll bring your design concepts to life through sketching, draping fabric on mannequins, and mastering pattern-making techniques to create garment blueprints. Practical sewing and construction classes provide the essential skills to transform designs into tangible garments, experimenting with different fabrics and finishes.
Within the program, there is also opportunity for internships with local businesses and national brands to gain real-world experience that you can add to your portfolio. Fashion students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad, with major specific programs in New York, London and Florence, Italy.
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Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
Frequently asked questions
Accreditation
