An exciting future awaits students within the Fashion Studies department. The department offers the following degree programs: the BA in Fashion Design, BFA in Fashion Design, and BA in Fashion Business. Each program offers a pragmatic approach to the many aspects of the fashion industry. Students experience and explore the dynamically creative, real world of fashion through a wide range of collaborative and interdisciplinary courses.

The BFA in Fashion Design is a 72 credit hour professional course of study in the major that focuses on intensive work in fashion design. The BFA is further distinguished by a candidacy procedure whereby students must apply into the BFA after 45 credits of college-wide coursework, which must include 33 credits in the BA in Fashion Design major and minimum of GPA of 3.0. Students in the BFA are required to complete a senior thesis composed of a substantial body of work that elaborates a particular theme, idea, or professional area of practice.

Students who successfully complete this program should:

• demonstrate an understanding of and application evidenced by the ability to effectively interpret and express art and/or design concepts and solutions in written/verbal/visual/sensorial format;
• effectively apply materials, techniques, technology, vocabulary/terminology relative to desired end product and solution;
• demonstrate an understanding and application of the history, theory, context, and practice of fashion, art, and design evidenced by the ability to contextualize thoughts and ideas in reference to socio-historical context as it applies to concept, practice, and product;
• apply the above referenced skills and abilities in conjunction with creative problem solving, concept development, and design execution;
• describe, analyze, interpret, and contextualize their work and the work of others;
• develop and maintain effective, ethical, professional and sustainable work habits (including time management, project organization, and awareness of environmentally sensitive working practices); and
• develop and present a succinct, cohesive, professional body of work.

Fashion is a complex field of study and ultimately reflects the aesthetic taste, social status, political mood, economic condition, and technical achievements of society through the personal expression of dress. Fashion as an industry requires skills in research, production, merchandising, and marketing. This curriculum gives students the opportunity to explore creativity and practicality. It is the foundation for a successful career in the fashion industry. The BA and BFA programs enable students to excel in this ever-evolving profession. Students participate in a true fashion experience throughout their education with exposure to recognized guest designers, industry leaders, and accomplished alumni, and through fashion competitions, presentations, and exhibitions.

Students seeking to enter the BFA program in Fashion Design must apply to the Fashion Studies Department. A grade of C or better is required in all major coursework.

Program Requirements  

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