Introduction
The Fashion Merchandising major within the College of Education and Human Development prepares students for exciting careers in fashion retailing and marketing. This program includes courses specific to merchandising in the fashion environment, as well as 18 credits in the nationally recognized Haworth College of Business. Graduates pursue careers in retail store operations, buying, and fashion marketing. In addition to problem solving and analytical skills, strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment are essential for success in this industry.
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 Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising
Through the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, you will step into a dynamic program designed to launch exciting careers in the vibrant world of fashion retailing and marketing. This focused curriculum blends specialized fashion merchandising courses with a robust 18-credit foundation from the Haworth College of Business. Upon graduation, you're well-prepared to excel in diverse roles such as retail store operations, buying, and fashion marketing.
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
Fashion merchandising at WMU blends business and creativity, covering retailing, buying, planning, marketing, and supply chains. You'll learn to analyze trends, understand consumers, and create compelling retail experiences through visual merchandising and promotional strategies. This comprehensive education equips you with vital skills in analysis, communication, and technology for a successful career in the dynamic fashion industry.
Student quote
It's a great community here at WMU. We have good people here that are always trying to push others to the best they can be.
Where you’ll be after graduation
Graduates from the fashion merchandising program have gone on to work at national retailers and famous brands, such as Ann Taylor, Express, Forever21, J. Crew, Nordstrom, Michael Kors and Von Maur. In addition, graduates have gone on to become entrepreneurs and start their own business ventures.
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 others have achieved
Learn about the successful journeys of recent program graduates and the advice they have to share for prospective WMU students.
Meet Madeline
Hitting the fashion scene harder than a slap-shot; Madeline organized the marketing of WMU hockey's vintage jersey release. A passion for retro, she brought back a classic look from the team's 50-year history for a new generation of Lawson Lunatics.
Meet Diamond
Fusing style and the science of human emotion, Diamond is building her own fashion house to improve mental health through fashion. A dual-major in fashion merchandising and psychology, she plans to start a clothing brand that uplifts through the use of different colors.
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 Merchandising major, you'll be immersed in a variety of hands-on learning experiences to cultivate your skills and industry knowledge. Your classes will be project-based and challenge you to showcase your creativity and understanding of course material. After completing the degree, you'll be able to develop a product line and organize garment manufacturing for targeted customer groups.
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.
