Fashion Merchandising

The Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for dynamic careers within the fashion industry. This program combines a strong foundation in business principles with a focus on fashion industry fundamentals, including product development, marketing, retail management, and consumer behavior. Students gain insights into how fashion products are conceived, marketed, and sold, developing skills essential for success in this fast-paced and ever-evolving industry. The curriculum integrates coursework in fashion trend analysis, visual merchandising, supply chain management, and fashion retail strategies, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of each facet of the industry.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, industry projects, and engagement with fashion businesses, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to excel in various roles such as fashion buyers, merchandise planners, retail managers, and product developers. Faculty members bring industry experience and academic expertise, guiding students through the complexities of global fashion markets and sustainable business practices.

The University of Delaware’s strategic location and active connections to the fashion industry allow students to build valuable professional networks and gain practical experience. The program also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to develop their unique perspectives and contribute to the future of fashion merchandising. With a blend of rigorous coursework, practical applications, and industry engagement, the Fashion Merchandising program aims to produce versatile graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the competitive world of fashion retail and marketing.

FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

JUNIOR

SENIOR

• Apply through the Common Application
• Secondary School Transcripts
• TOEFL or IELTS. Submit an official TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum required TOEFL score is 90 (TOEFLibt) or 570 (paper).  Applicants to the Nursing major must have a minimum TOEFL score of 100 (TOEFLibt) or 600 (paper). An IELTS score of 6.5 or better may be submitted in place of a TOEFL score. The TOEFL code for Delaware is 5811.
• SAT or ACT. If you are applying for scholarship awards, you must submit SAT or ACT scores.
• Letter of Recommendation. Submit two letters of recommendation through the Common Application by people familiar with your academic achievements.
• Essays. Submit an essay responding to the prompt on the Common Application. Remember, a great story can set your application apart.

The University of Delaware offers various financial assistance options for students enrolled in the Fashion Merchandising program. These include federal and state financial aid programs, scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities designed to help students fund their education. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) must be submitted annually to determine eligibility for federal grants such as the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and federal student loans. The university also administers need-based scholarships that are awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and financial need. Additionally, merit-based scholarships are available for outstanding students through departmental and university-level scholarship programs.

Students are encouraged to explore the UD Scholarship Search tool, which matches students with scholarships they qualify for. The university also supports students with on-campus employment opportunities through work-study programs, allowing students to earn money to cover educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience. Financial planning services are available through the university’s Office of Financial Aid and the Student Financial Services Center, providing guidance on budgeting, loan options, and repayment plans.

International students and out-of-state students may have additional financial considerations and opportunities; they should consult specific departmental resources and the Office of International Students and Scholars for guidance. The university also offers payment plans to spread tuition payments over the semester, easing financial burden. Students are encouraged to apply early for aid and scholarships to maximize their chances of receiving financial assistance. Overall, the combination of federal aid, institutional scholarships, work opportunities, and payment plans offers comprehensive support to help students pursue their Fashion Merchandising degree at the University of Delaware.

Fashion Merchandising at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for successful careers in the dynamic and competitive fashion industry. The program emphasizes the development of critical skills in areas such as fashion buying, retail management, product development, visual merchandising, and marketing. Students gain theoretical knowledge alongside practical experience through hands-on projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, which provide valuable insights into the latest trends, technological advancements, and business practices.

The curriculum covers core topics including fashion history, textiles, merchandise planning, consumer behavior, and trend analysis, ensuring graduates possess a well-rounded understanding of the fashion landscape. Emphasis is placed on the integration of business acumen with creative thinking, equipping students to make informed decisions regarding product assortment, pricing strategies, and retail presentation. The program also explores the global aspects of fashion, addressing issues such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and cultural diversity.

In addition to classroom instruction, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources such as fashion laboratories, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and collections from the university's fashion archives. The university's strong industry connections facilitate internships and job placements, enabling students to build professional networks and gain real-world experience before graduation. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and academics who provide mentorship and guidance tailored to each student's career aspirations.

Graduates of the Fashion Merchandising program at the University of Delaware pursue careers in retail buying, visual merchandising, brand management, merchandise planning, and marketing for various fashion sectors, including apparel, accessories, and footwear. The program's focus on innovation and practicality ensures that students are well-prepared to adapt to the evolving demands of the fashion industry and to excel in competitive employment markets.