Apparel and Textiles

The Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive education in the design, production, sourcing, and marketing of apparel and textile products. This program prepares students for versatile careers in the fashion industry, including roles in product development, merchandising, supply chain management, and textile innovation. Students will explore various facets of the apparel industry, from fiber and fabric selection to the final garment assembly, ensuring a thorough understanding of the entire supply chain. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, integrating courses in textile science, fashion design, global sourcing, and retail management. Students are encouraged to develop creativity, technical proficiency, and business acumen, equipping them to meet the evolving demands of the fashion and textile industries.

Facilities at Kansas State University include specialized laboratories for fabric testing, computer-aided design (CAD), and garment construction, providing hands-on learning opportunities. The program also emphasizes sustainability practices and ethical sourcing, reflecting current industry trends aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting fair labor standards. Students have opportunities to participate in internships with industry partners, gaining real-world experience that enhances their employability upon graduation. Additionally, the program fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship among students. Graduates of this program pursue careers in fashion design, textile manufacturing, retail merchandising, product development, quality assurance, and sustainable textiles, among other fields. The Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for a successful career in the dynamic and globalized world of fashion and textiles, combining academic rigor with industry relevance to ensure graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the industry.

Explore the Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University, a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the fashion, apparel, and textile industries. This program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping students with a solid foundation in fiber science, textile production, clothing construction, fashion merchandising, and consumer behavior. Students will engage in courses that cover textile chemistry, fabric design, apparel manufacturing processes, and sustainable practices within the industry. The curriculum also offers specialized training in fashion marketing, branding, and retail management, allowing students to develop expertise in the business aspects of apparel.

Throughout their studies, students have opportunities for hands-on learning through laboratory work, internships, and industry projects, fostering real-world experience and professional development. The program encourages creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation, preparing graduates to adapt to the rapidly changing fashion landscape. Career pathways for graduates include roles in apparel design, textile development, quality assurance, product development, retail management, and sourcing. The program also emphasizes ethical practices and sustainability, aligning with industry trends and consumer demands for environmentally responsible apparel.

State-of-the-art facilities and access to industry partnerships enable students to stay current with advanced technologies and market trends. The faculty members are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and research opportunities that enhance the learning experience. Kansas State University’s Apparel and Textiles program aims to cultivate industry leaders who are equipped to influence and innovate within the global apparel sector. Whether aspiring to design innovative fabrics, manage fashion retail operations, or develop sustainable textile solutions, students will find a supportive environment to pursue their career goals confidently and competently.

Program Requirements: Apparel and Textiles at Kansas State University include completion of 120 credit hours, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all courses. Students must complete foundational courses in textiles, apparel design, and fashion merchandising. Core courses include Textile Science, Apparel Development, Fashion Merchandising Principles, and Fashion Buying. Students are required to participate in hands-on projects, internships, or cooperative education experiences to gain practical industry exposure. Upper-division courses emphasize advanced textile technology, sustainable fashion practices, and product development. A capstone project or thesis is mandatory for graduation, allowing students to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and skills. Additionally, students must complete general education requirements including mathematics, English composition, and social sciences. Electives can be selected from related fields such as marketing, business management, and environmental sustainability to diversify learning. The program encourages participation in student organizations, competitions, and study abroad programs to enhance educational experience. Faculty-led research opportunities are available for undergraduate students interested in fabric innovation, eco-friendly materials, and apparel technology. Successful completion of the program prepares graduates for careers in textile manufacturing, fashion retail, product development, and sustainable fashion industries. Continuous advising is provided to ensure students meet all academic and experiential milestones. Overall, the Apparel and Textiles program emphasizes a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry engagement to prepare students for dynamic careers in the apparel sector.

The Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for in-state students are generally lower compared to out-of-state students, with in-state residents paying approximately $9,371 per year for undergraduate studies, while out-of-state students pay around $21,386 annually. Additionally, students may be subject to mandatory fees such as student fees, activity fees, and lab fees, which contribute to resources and facilities maintenance.

Financial aid opportunities are abundant, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. The university participates in federal programs such as the Pell Grant, which provides need-based assistance, and offers numerous scholarships specific to apparel and textiles students based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for financial assistance.

Graduate students in the Apparel and Textiles program have access to assistantship positions, including teaching and research roles, which provide tuition waivers and stipends. The university also provides loan programs, such as federal Direct Loans, with interest rates and repayment plans governed by federal regulations.

In addition to institutional aid, students often seek external scholarships from industry organizations, fashion design associations, and textile companies, many of which offer scholarships to students pursuing apparel and textiles degrees. The university’s financial support services assist students in exploring all available funding options and help manage their educational expenses effectively.

Overall, the financing structure at Kansas State University for Apparel and Textiles students is designed to promote access and affordability through a combination of institutional scholarships, federal aid programs, work opportunities, and external scholarships, ensuring students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial burdens.

The Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive education in the design, production, and marketing of clothing and textile products. This program prepares students for careers in the fashion industry, retail, manufacturing, and product development sectors. The curriculum combines coursework in textile science, fashion design, merchandising, and business principles, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the apparel industry. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning through laboratories, design studios, and internships, enhancing their practical skills and industry awareness. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability, innovation, and global perspectives in apparel and textiles, equipping graduates to adapt to the evolving demands of the marketplace. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and fostering creativity and critical thinking. Kansas State University’s industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities enable students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Upon graduation, students are prepared to pursue careers in fashion design, textile science, product development, quality assurance, merchandising, and retail management. The Apparel and Textiles program at Kansas State University aims to develop industry leaders with the technical expertise, creativity, and business acumen necessary for success in the competitive world of fashion and textiles.