Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Fashion Merchandising] From Western Illinois University

The curriculum focuses on merchandising as applied to products and services of the apparel and textile industries. Students learn about apparel product sourcing and distribution, profitability, applied market research, consumer behavior, customer feedback and evaluation methods, promotion and retailing campaign development, and applications to specific domestic and international consumer markets. Students have opportunities to apply retail, basic design principles, and computer skills to marketing and management functions in retail organizations, display/visual departments, or mall corporate offices. The program prepares students to establish product lines/brands, and organize promotional campaigns, at various levels to attract retailer interest, wholesale purchasing, and supply contracts.

Field trips, guest speakers, student organizational activities (Visual and Apparel Merchandising Organization), fashion productions and event planning, travel studies, and study abroad programs enhance the comprehensive curriculum and contribute to a strong foundation in retail customer service in a variety of positions including store manager, buyer, visual merchandiser, display director, fashion show coordinator and fashion mall director. Because of the experiential nature of the curriculum students are provided ample opportunities to develop leadership skills, problem solving abilities, creative skills and to become proficient with the use of technology. Opportunities to participate in study tours to New York, and other markets, fashion professional career days, advisory council seminars, regional student organizations, studying abroad, and/or completing an internship abroad exist for all students.

Career Opportunities

• Apparel production management
• Fashion buying
• Fashion forecasters
• Fashion journalists (write articles for fashion magazines, etc.)
• Fashion promotion
• Fashion merchandise management