Design and Merchandising

Design and Merchandising at Colorado State University offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum that prepares students for successful careers in the fashion, retail, and apparel industries. This program combines creative design skills with strategic merchandising techniques, equipping students to develop innovative products, understand consumer behavior, and effectively manage product lifecycle processes. Students have the opportunity to learn through a balanced mix of theoretical coursework and practical experience, including hands-on projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. The program emphasizes sustainability, ethical practices, and technological advancements in design and retail environments, ensuring graduates are well-versed in current trends and future developments. Core coursework covers fashion illustration, textile science, product development, visual merchandising, fashion marketing, and supply chain management. Students can also explore specialized areas such as fashion entrepreneurship, global sourcing, and digital design tools. State-of-the-art facilities and access to industry-standard software support the learning experience, while faculty members with professional industry backgrounds provide mentorship and real-world insights. The program prepares students for diverse careers such as fashion designer, visual merchandiser, retail buyer, product developer, and brand manager. With a location close to major retail hubs and a strong network of alumni and industry partners, Colorado State University offers valuable opportunities for internships and employment placements. Graduates of the Design and Merchandising program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional networks to thrive in the competitive and ever-evolving fashion and retail industries.

 A minimum of 30 credits are required to complete this program.

• APPLICATION – you must apply and be accepted into a degree program.
• APPLICATION FEE – $60 (U.S. citizen/permanent resident), $70 (international) non-refundable application fee
• GRE/GMAT SCORES – Contact the academic department to verify whether the GRE/GMAT is required. For program contact information, please visit our program pages. The GRE department code can be found at www.ets.org.
• OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS/CREDENTIAL & CERTIFIED TRANSLATIONS – Official transcripts or mark sheets and any certificates, diplomas, or degrees from each college or university attended is required regardless of the length of attendance, including courses in progress. Final records will be required upon completion of the course or degree. ALL records submitted must be in the native language; any credentials written in languages other than English MUST be accompanied by a certified English translation (Colorado State University transcripts are not required).
• LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION – There is no standardized format unless specified by the academic department. For programs listed in Group 1 Colleges below, letters of recommendation will be submitted through the application. For applicants applying prior to the Fall 2016 term and for programs listed in Group 2 Colleges below, letters of recommendation are collected outside of the application.
• ADDITIONAL DEPARTMENTAL REQUIREMENTS – Please contact the academic department to which you are applying to, as it may require additional supplemental information.
• FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS – in addition to the above requirements:
  • ENGLISH PROFICIENCY – Regardless of citizenship, applicants may be required to demonstrate proof of English proficiency. Request that examination scores be reported to Colorado State University. The institution code is 4075. Photocopies are not accepted.
    • Minimum TOEFL score for admission without condition is 550 (paper based), or 80 (internet based).
    • Minimum IELTS score for admission without condition is 6.5.
    • Minimum PTE score for admission without condition is 58.
    • Your department may have higher TOEFL/IELTS/PTE score requirements.
  • REQUIRED ITEMS FOR IMMIGRATION DOCUMENT INSURANCE – These items are required if officially admitted.
    • For certified proof of financial support, print and complete the Immigration Document Request form. International Student and Scholar Services will issue an I-20/DS-2019 only after the form has been received and accepted by Colorado State University.
    • Passport Copy

Scholarships

• McPherson Graduate Scholarship
• Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Graduate Scholarships
• Global Education

The Bachelor of Science in Design and Merchandising at Colorado State University offers students a comprehensive education that prepares them for careers in the dynamic fields of fashion, retail, and product development. The program emphasizes the development of creative skills, technical knowledge, and business acumen necessary to succeed in the competitive design and merchandising industries. Students explore core topics such as textiles, fashion illustration, visual merchandising, fashion history, consumer behavior, and retail management. The curriculum combines hands-on coursework with theoretical understanding, allowing students to gain practical experience through projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. The program also fosters leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills, which are essential for successful careers in design, buying, product development, and retail management. Facilities include specialized labs and studios equipped with the latest technology for fashion design and merchandising simulations. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles including fashion buyer, visual merchandiser, product developer, retail manager, or starting their own business. The program is supported by experienced faculty members who are active in the industry and committed to mentoring students. Colorado State University’s location and connections provide valuable opportunities for internships and networking within the retail and fashion sectors. Overall, the Design and Merchandising program aims to cultivate innovative, business-savvy professionals equipped to make meaningful contributions to the global fashion and retail industries.