An online bachelor’s degree program in fashion design may provide students a solid foundation on the fashion industry and business marketing concepts. In this four-year program, students may learn how to develop elements of style, utilize computer programs to create designs, and learn about business principles in fashion. Program coursework may include general education courses along with major-specific courses such as textile design, computer pattern drafting, and fashion sketching.

Graduates may either seek entry-level employment or enroll in an online graduate-level program in fashion design. Baccalaureate-level graduates may secure employment in manufacturing, retail, design firms, or apparel wholesale companies.

Program Overview

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

Program Coursework

The coursework within bachelor’s-level programs may combine general education requirements alongside core fashion design classes. These courses may teach students about garment construction, fashion marketing, and apparel conceptualization. Core fashion design courses may include the following:

• Fashion Sketching
• Computer Pattern Drafting
• Draping
• Clothing Construction
• Trend Forecasting
• Textile Design
• Stylizing Fashion

Career Options

Graduates of baccalaureate programs in fashion design may seek out career opportunities in retail, manufacturing, or wholesale businesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment opportunities are not expected to experience growth from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Fashion Illustrator
• Tailor
• Fashion Stylist
• Purchasing Agent
• Wardrobe Consultant

Continuing Education

Individuals who successfully complete a bachelor’s degree program in fashion design may decide to further their education by enrolling in an online master’s degree program. The master’s degree program in fashion design may provide students additional training in business and design as well as an opportunity to work on various fashion collections and portfolios. Although most employers do not require employees to possess any type of post-secondary degree, many individuals opt to earn either an associate or bachelor’s degree to acquire knowledge about textiles, fabrics, and business.

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