Merchandising concentration

The Merchandising concentration provides a comprehensive studio-based education and prepares students for careers in management, retailing, merchandising and auxiliary fashion and interiors industries. Students learn to identify, research, and creatively problem solve through a series of courses that develop knowledge, skills, ethics, and creativity.

Students will combine this concentration with courses in other areas such as communication, economics, management, marketing, media studies, psychology, or journalism, in consultation with the student’s major advisor.

Graduates of Merchandising have successfully obtained employment with companies such as Nordstrom, Victoria’s Secret, Neiman Marcus, Belk, Macy’s, Crate & Barrel and Talbot’s.

DSNM 107 - Visual Studio
An application of design fundamentals and problem solving techniques to two- and three-dimensional design problems for the fashion and merchandising environments, with attention to human factors. Emphasis is on the design process, including conceptual thinking and creative expression.       

DSNM 200 - Promotion for Design 2-D
The student is guided through the design process to develop promotional communication solutions that benefit both the retailer and its targeted consumers. Schematic design process (concept development, graphic identification, layout, greeking) and the application of critical thinking skills are emphasized. The student will explore how graphics, symbols, and other imagery can be manipulated to create “a.i.d.a.s.” (attention, interest, desire, action, and satisfaction) for selected apparel and interior products and services. Two-dimensional and multimedia advertising formats as well as target customer/advertiser needs are also examined.

DSNM 445 - Forecasting for Design
Methods and procedures for forecasting products and market trends in the apparel and interior industry. The capstone course for merchandising students.