The FIM program exposes students to the entire fashion value chain from the background of fiber composition to the final branded product.  Students graduate from the program as hybrid thinkers who have the knowledge and skill to apply the fashion business model to a range of sectors.

Today, fashion is a global industry encompassing not only apparel, but also adding an exciting dimension to a broad range of consumer products including the home furnishings, automotive and technology sectors. The Fashion Industry Management program is interdisciplinary and cultivates creativity as well as business savvy so that graduates will contribute to innovation in meaningful ways. By referencing diverse fashion business models, the FIM program develops hybrid thinkers- graduates who will be able to apply principles learned from the entire fashion value chain to a range of areas. Leaders in the fashion industry must be intellectually curious about different cultures and astute about public policy. This program exposes students to the diverse career opportunities in this burgeoning field.

Program Highlights

• Students work with industry professionals and students from different disciplines on collaborative industry projects for companies like QVC, Maidenform and Cotton Inc.
• Curricular  focus is on the entire fashion value chain: fiber/yarn/fabric development, sourcing & production, merchandising, branding and marketing
• Short courses abroad and semester-long study abroad experiences to China, Australia, London, Milan, Rome, and India add an unparalleled international dimension to the program
• Guest speakers visit campus regularly to share their expertise- past visitors have included: Tommy Hilfiger, Mary Dougherty (owner of Nicole Miller stores), Elizabeth Wellington (fashion journalist with The Philadelphia Inquirer) and Jim Schwartz (EVP at Mast Industries/Limited Brands)
• Student have access to a variety of coveted internships with brands such as Coach, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Lily Pulitzer, Tommy Hilfiger, Macy’s, Under Armour, The Limited Brands, QVC, and Charming Shoppes
• The program prepares students to enter the fashion industry through a variety of career paths including: marketing and branding, merchandising and buying, sourcing, product development, and styling

Course Highlight

Global Product Management- Aboard Course
Global Product Management is a combination of classroom lectures and experiential instruction in a global environment. Students’ tour design houses, mills, dye houses and production facilities, and examine international retailers. Students learn how to assess manufacturers for compliance and engage in cultural activities. Another major component of the course is to observe the economic state of the apparel industry in the specified country and study sustainable methods for manufacturing apparel, home textiles and other products.

Interested in learning more about the program?

Contact program direction, Natalie Nixon or click her to request more information.