Fashion Design

The Fashion Design program at the University of Cincinnati offers students a comprehensive education in the art and business of creating innovative, market-ready apparel and accessories. Designed to develop both creative skills and technical expertise, the program prepares students to excel in the dynamic fashion industry. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that combines conceptual design, technical drawing, textile knowledge, pattern making, garment construction, and digital design techniques. Through a series of studio courses, students will have the opportunity to explore various fashion disciplines, including womenswear, menswear, and avant-garde design, allowing them to discover their unique voice and develop a cohesive portfolio. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and ethical practices in fashion, encouraging students to think critically about environmental impact and social responsibility in their designs. Industry partnerships and internship opportunities provide practical experience, networking connections, and insights into current market trends. Faculty comprised of experienced designers and industry professionals offer mentorship and guidance, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in fashion design, fashion merchandising, product development, and related fields. State-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, computer labs with CAD software, and sewing labs, support hands-on learning and innovation. The program also fosters a collaborative environment, inspiring students to work collectively on runway shows, fashion competitions, and real-world projects. Graduates leave the program equipped with a strong portfolio, technical skills, and industry understanding, ready to launch successful careers in fashion or pursue further education. The University of Cincinnati’s commitment to experiential learning and industry engagement ensures that students are both creatively fulfilled and professionally prepared to meet the challenges of the fashion industry.

Year 1

• History of Art I (FA,HP)
• Foundation Drawing 1 (FA)
• Foundation 2D Design
• Foundation 3D Design
• English Composition (EC)
• Foundation Drawing 2
• Sources of Modern Design (HP)
• Introduction to Sewing
• Communication for Design Professional Practice
• Industry, Theory and Practice
• Introduction to COOP for Fashion
• Sociology elective (SS)

Year 2

• Fashion Drawing 1
• Design Methodology 1
• Textiles
• History of Fashion 1
• Intermediate Composition (EC)
• Introduction to Marketing
• COOP for DAAP (First Semester Experience)
• Fashion Drawing 2
• Draping 1
• Fashion Design 1
• Fashion Marketing and Brand Development
• History of Fashion 2

Year 3

• COOP for DAAP (Second Semester Experience)
• Design Communication 1
• Design Methodology 2
• Computer Aided Design Applications
• Trend Forecasting: Research Methodology and Development
• Focus area - course #1
• COOP for DAAP (Third Semester Experience)

Year 4

• Interdisciplinary User-Centered Design (SE,TI)
• Design Communication 2
• Collaborative Studio
• Focus area - course #2
• Math elective (QR)
• COOP for DAAP (Fourth Semester Experience)
• Interdisciplinary Research Methods for Design
• Interdisciplinary Global Design Issues
• Design Communication 3
• Knitwear
• Entrepreneurship

Year 5

• COOP for DAAP (Fifth Semester Experience)
• Design Communication 4
• Focus Area - Capstone
• Free elective
• Free elective

• Common Application and Writing Supplement
• Application fee or application fee waiver submitted via the Common Application
• ACT and/or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency
• Official high school transcript
• Letter(s) of recommendation
• $100 application fee
• SAT/ACT 
• Proof of English Ability and Proof of Math Ability
• TOEFL: 79 iBT
• IELTS: 6.5
• SAT-I: 480 Critical Reading
• ACT: 20 English
• PTE: 53
• ELS: 112

The University of Cincinnati offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in the Fashion Design program. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. The university provides need-based grants such as the Cincinnati Financial Aid Grant, which can significantly offset tuition costs for eligible students. Additionally, there are institutional scholarships specifically aimed at students pursuing design degrees, including the Fashion Design Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding talents and academic achievements in the field. Students may also explore external scholarship opportunities through industry organizations and fashion foundations that support emerging designers. The university offers payment plans that allow for spreading tuition payments over the semester, making it more manageable for students. Work opportunities within the university, such as assistantships or positions in the design department, are available and provide both financial aid and professional experience. Loans are available for eligible students through federal loan programs, with counseling services offered to help manage borrowing responsibly. Students should regularly consult the university's financial aid office for updates on applying procedures, deadlines, and available resources. The university also hosts financial literacy workshops to help students understand budgeting, managing debt, and planning for long-term financial stability. International students are advised to explore additional funding sources and visa-specific financial regulations. Overall, the University of Cincinnati is committed to providing comprehensive financial support to make the Fashion Design program accessible and affordable for a diverse student body.

The University of Cincinnati offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Fashion Design through its College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP). The program is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the fashion industry by providing comprehensive education that combines technical skills, creative development, and industry knowledge. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences, including patternmaking, draping, sewing, textile fundamentals, and computer-aided design (CAD). The curriculum emphasizes both traditional craftsmanship and the integration of emerging technologies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving industry.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, internships, and fashion shows, which help build professional portfolios and industry connections. The program also includes coursework in fashion illustration, sustainable fashion practices, textiles, and fashion history, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the field. Students are encouraged to develop their own design aesthetic while understanding commercial viability, marketing, and branding strategies essential for success in fashion businesses. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios and laboratories, to support creative experimentation and production.

The Fashion Design program at UC aims to produce versatile graduates capable of working in various sectors, such as apparel design, costume design, future trends forecasting, and fashion entrepreneurship. Alumni of the program have gone on to work for major fashion brands, owned boutique labels, and contributed to innovative fashion projects globally. The program's faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a dynamic learning environment. Overall, UC’s Fashion Design program prepares students for a competitive industry by blending creative exploration with practical skills, ensuring they are ready to meet the demands of a global fashion landscape.