Bachelor of Science
Family and Consumer Sciences
College of Education and Human DevelopmentTextile and Apparel Studies
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)in Textile and Apparel Studies
Program descriptions
The Textile and Apparel Studies major prepares students to become successful professionals in the textile and apparel and consumer goods industries. The program builds upon multiple disciplines such as business, history, economics, art, psychology, sociology, anthropology, mathematics and chemistry to produce professionals who are able to function in a culturally diverse and global industry. These bases of knowledge are applied to problems in the design, production and marketing of textile, apparel and other consumer products for industrial or consumer markets. Graduates of the program have an understanding of consumers both as individuals and in their role as users of family resources.
After completing core courses, including Introduction to the Fashion Industry, Design Principles and History of Fashion and Textiles, students choose an emphasis in merchandising, fashion design, or product development.
WMU has guest student arrangements with the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York and The American Intercontinental University in London. Students enroll as a guest of one of these institutions and earn credit toward a WMU degree during the junior year. This offers an opportunity to get a different perspective on the industry and make valuable industry connections.
Fashion design students spend their junior or senior year at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City or The American Intercontinental University in London, England. Fashion design courses completed at either of these schools will comprise a portion of the career emphasis for these students. Merchandising and Product Development majors also have the option to complete a portion of their program at one of these institutions.
Outside the classroom
Undergraduate Professional Experience
Resource Links
Textiles and Apparel resources for career guidance and exploration
Advanced degrees
Western Michigan University also offers a graduate program in Textile and Apparel Studies.