Fashion Merchandising

This program is offered in-person.

The fashion merchandising major prepares students for exciting careers in fashion retailing and marketing. This program includes courses specific to merchandising in the fashion environment, as well as 18 credits in the Haworth College of Business. Graduates pursue careers in retail store operations, buying, and fashion marketing. In addition to problem solving and analytical skills, strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment are essential for success in this industry.

Prospective students may arrange a department visit by contacting Kelly Weathers.

Why fashion merchandising at Western Michigan University?

 

Find fast success: 97% of 2020-2021 WMU fashion design graduates were employed or continuing education within three months of graduation.

Hands-on learning: Academic quality and experiential focus. Many transformative learning experiences are offered students, including field experiences, internships, and industry tours.

Industry networking: A strong connection to the fashion industry through a professional advisory board represented by top industry members and a strong alumni base.

International experiences: Up to 24 credit hours may be earned through our partnerships with the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, Regents University and London University of the Arts in London, or Florence University of the Arts in Italy. 

Display your work: Annual fashion show sponsored by Merchandising Opportunities and Design Association (MODA). Read about the 2022 MODA fashion show

Nationally recognized: FMD program is the second-largest program in Michigan with integrated merchandising and design programs and is accredited by the prestigious Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (TAPAC) and National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The designation of accreditations is a recognition of the quality of Western Michigan’s FMD program. Parents, students, and employers of the graduates can be assured that the FMD program has undergone rigorous peer review and that the program provides their graduates with skills and knowledge for professional careers in the apparel and textile industry. To learn more about the importance of accreditation and the benefits it offers students, please check out additional details at FMD accreditation and mission.

  • Minor

    The 18 credit-hour fashion merchandising minor offers study of core practices, issues in the fashion industry and may complement a business or communications major.

Additional information

Hear it from us

"I love the hands-on work and I have learned so much just through two semesters."

- Lulu, fashion merchandising student

  • Student in Italy

    Study Abroad

    Students are encouraged to pursue additional educational opportunities through one of the FMD specific study abroad programs.

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    WMU Signature

    All WMU students have the option to stand out with an integrative learning project in one of several pathways including arts and culture, entrepreneurship, sustainability and more!

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    Visit Campus

    There's simply no substitute for seeing WMU for yourself and experiencing a little slice of what makes WMU so unique and beloved. In-person and virtual tours are available.

    Schedule a visit

Our faculty

  • Dr. Mary Simpson

    Dr. Mary Simpson

    Assistant Professor

    Contact

  • Dr. Chitra Singh

    Dr. Chitra Singh

    Assistant Professor

    Contact

  • Kelly Weathers

    Kelly Weathers

    Faculty Specialist II

    Contact

  • Dr. Zee-Sun Yun

    Dr. Zee-Sun Yun

    Associate Professor and Program Coordinator

    Contact

Accreditation