What Will I Learn in a Fashion Design Degree Program?

Students in this degree program will learn about fashion today, in the past, and what designers will be looking to in the future. Courses will focus on pattern making, computer design, manufacturing, illustration, marketing and merchandising. Students may also want to choose a concentration to ensure that their studies represent where they plan to head after graduation. Common specializations include costume design and fashion marketing, merchandising and manufacturing.

What Can I Do With a Fashion Design Degree?

Although some students who earn this degree go on to become big name designers such as Armani or Versace, many choose other career paths. For those who aren't so interested in designing the actual garments, there are many other careers to choose from, including retail sales, retail purchasing, advertising, professional styling, fashion illustration and textile design. Some fashion design grads may even find work in fashion reporting, writing for newspapers and fashion magazines about the latest trends in the industry. Whatever your interest in fashion, this degree program can likely help you. 

What Is the Career Outlook for Fashion Design Degree Students?

The stability of the fashion industry and the expected income varies widely, as careers can be quite different. Fashion design students must keep in mind that fashion is an industry that changes rapidly and styles and trends change from week to week and month to month. Those working in fields such as wholesaling make on average $60,000 a year. For those who want to do something more creative such as design costumes, the average is a bit lower at about $45,000.