BA in Fashion Design and Merchandising in Normal United States | Illinois State University

The Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) program at Illinois State University showcases your creations on the catwalk, links you with industry experts across the country, and delivers comprehensive instruction in all aspects of design and merchandising through professional-grade Design Studio and Textile Lab facilities. You'll be motivated by the extensive Lois Jett Historic Costume Collection, featuring over 2,000 pieces. As an FDM student, you can take part in our yearly Fashion Show, where aspiring fashion professionals gain hands-on experience in producing, designing, and managing a completely student-led event. The program additionally provides domestic and international study tours, with past destinations including corporate headquarters and manufacturing sites from New York to California, as well as locations in Europe and Asia. This Family and Consumer Science major equips students for careers in textile and apparel industries, covering product development, distribution, and retail. The curriculum examines the apparel supply chain with emphasis on design, merchandising, product development and analysis, while cultivating valuable business competencies sought by employers.