An online associate degree program in fashion design may provide students a solid foundation in the fashion design industry, ranging from concept through production. In this two-year program, students may learn how to draw sketches, create patterns, drape materials, and tailor fabrics. Program-specific coursework may include general education courses combined with major-specific ones, including fashion marketing, color theory, and clothing construction.

Graduates may either pursue entry-level employment opportunities or enroll in an online baccalaureate program. Associate-level graduates may find employment in retail, manufacturing, apparel, and merchandising.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 0% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

Coursework within associate-level fashion design programs may combine a handful of general education courses alongside core fashion and marketing courses. These courses may teach students how to create and assemble garments, market their designs, and use technology to assist with their creations. Core fashion design courses may include the following:

• Color Theory
• Fashion Drawing
• Design History
• Sewing
• Patternmaking
• Clothing Construction
• Fashion Marketing

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may seek out employment opportunities at apparel businesses, manufacturing companies, merchandising corporations, and design firms. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities may see little if any increase from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Pattern Maker
• Visual Merchandiser
• Showroom Assistant
• Sales Associate
• Seamstress

Continuing Education

Individuals who successfully complete an associate degree program in fashion design may decide to further their education by transferring their credits into a four-year bachelor’s degree program. A baccalaureate program in fashion design may provide students with additional design skills and training in the field, and they may create a portfolio or fashion collection prior to graduation. Although most employers do not require employees to have any sort of formal post-secondary education, many individuals obtain formal training either by earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in fashion design.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook