The FCS-Merchandising concentration is designed to provide students with an understanding of the apparel/fashion and textile industries through coursework and internships. The philosophical base of FCS addresses values reflecting all programs included within the FCS realm, including Merchandising. Emphasis on managing the challenges of living and working in a diverse, global society is introduced to prepare students for success including résumé-writing, professional presentations, and the development of communication skills. Students are introduced in core FCS classes to cultural differences, financial responsibilities of individuals and businesses, human development, professional ethics, and societal aspects of dress.
The curriculum prepares students for exciting careers in retailing, management, and fashion promotion and allows students to channel their own sense of style and business savvy into a career where they buy and promote the latest fashions to consumers.
Potential Careers
- Fashion Consultant/Stylist
- Fashion Show Director
- Costume Designer
- Regional Manager
- District Manager
- Store Manager
- Department Manager
- Merchandise Manager
- Visual Merchandiser Manager
- Fashion Event Coordinator
- Visual Merchandiser
- Fashion Editor
- Import/Export Manager
- Fashion Advertising Copywriter
- Merchandise Coordinator
- Product Developer
- Salesperson
- Fashion Buyer
- Assistant Fashion Buyer
- Fashion Trend Analyst
- Fashion Director
- Textile Broker
- Sales and Distribution
- Boutique Owner
- Costumer
- Educator
Median Annual Salary
| Fashion Consultant/Stylist |
$50,279 |
| Fashion Show Director |
$53,312 |
| Costume Designer |
$52,786 |
| Regional Manager |
$147,596 |
| District Manager |
$110,000 |
| Store Manager |
$84,080 |
| Department Manager |
$45,311 |
| Merchandise Manager |
$50,000 |
| Visual Merchandiser Manager |
$60,000 |
| Fashion Event Coordinator |
$66,328 |
| Visual Merchandiser |
$45,450 |
| Fashion Editor |
$57,110 |
| Import/Export Manager |
$140,000 |
| Fashion Advertising Copywriter |
$65,000 |
| Merchandise Coordinator |
$44,594 |
| Product Developer |
$42,000 |
| Salesperson |
$44,120 |
| Fashion Buyer |
$56,210 |
| Assistant Fashion Buyer |
$54,014 |
| Fashion Trend Analyst |
$90,000 |
| Fashion Director |
$100,773 |
| Textile Broker |
$61,104 |
| Sales and Distribution |
$89,901 |
| Boutique Owner |
$110,114 |
| Costumer |
$48,246 |
| Educator |
$50,506 |
*Median salary figures are from Comparably.com
Additional Facts
- Minor Available
- Program has a partnership with Browzwear that includes internship listings for students.
- Program's post-graduation job placement is 100% (2020-2021 data).
- Program is adjusting to continuing growth in e-commerce/e-tailing and digital marketing.
