Graduate Programs

Fashion and Apparel Studies: M.S., 4+1

The Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies offers a master of science in fashion and apparel studies. The program is designed to prepare students to be effective professionals in the global apparel industry. All students will complete design problem-solving and consumer behavior courses to bring an understanding of both to meet challenges in the global fashion industry. The growth and dominance of large multinational apparel brands and retailers have created a need for graduates who are globally oriented and innovative, and have apparel product design expertise, consumer behavior expertise, strong research skills, an understanding of social responsibility and sustainability, and strong communication skills. Graduates will be eligible for key industry positions that create value for a firm by integrating knowledge about consumer research, product design, product merchandising, product sourcing and product presentation. The program has an international focus and emphasizes understanding design, theory and research as they relate to fashion phenomena. Concepts and practices from social responsibility and sustainability underlie the graduate program.

The M.S. in fashion and apparel studies offers both thesis and non-thesis options, allowing students to pursue their academic interests and professional goals and complete the degree flexibly.

Current UD undergraduate students can be considered for admission to the 4+1 Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Management (FM) and Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies and 4+1 Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design and Product Innovation (FDPI) and Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies.

Current UD undergraduate students can be considered for admission to the 4+1 B.S. in fashion merchandising/M.S. in fashion and apparel studies. A certificate in Socially Responsible and Sustainable Apparel Business is also offered.

Application Deadlines

Certificate program applications are accepted up to one month prior to the student’s desired start.

*International applicants are not eligible to obtain a U.S. student visa solely with an acceptance to a UD graduate certificate program. Certificates may be added by full-time matriculated graduate students.