Apparel, Textiles, Merchandising

Bachelor of Science in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising

About the Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising, BS

Our Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising degree offers classes that cover the intricacies of apparel and textile production, effective merchandising strategies, sustainable practices, industry technologies, emerging trends, and consumer behavior. Throughout your studies, you will cultivate a diverse skill set encompassing fashion buying and merchandising, trend analysis, apparel manufacturing, visual merchandising, styling, and even event production. Our approach ensures that you will be well-prepared to excel in the ever-evolving realm of fashion and retail.

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Why Study Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising at CWU?

At CWU, our Fashion program has strong connections to the industry, providing you with opportunities for internships, industry partnerships, and networking events.

Our graduates have gone on to achieve great things in the fashion industry, including securing positions at prominent fashion brands, launching their own businesses, and making a significant impact on the world of fashion.

Where is this program offered?

• Ellensburg

How much does this program cost?

Explore information on Cost, Aid, and Value to make an informed decision about investing in your education at CWU.

Where can I find more information?

Please visit the CWU Academic Catalog for current information about admission requirements, course descriptions, learner outcomes, and credit information.

Careers and Opportunities

A degree in Apparel, Textiles and Merchandising can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the $2.5 trillion global apparel industry that employs 1.8 million people in the U.S.

• Buyer: In this role, you would analyze market trends, negotiate with suppliers, and ensure a profitable and on-trend product assortment. Fashion buyers in Washington State make an average annual salary of $85,000.
• Product Developer: As a fashion product developer, you would be responsible for managing and overseeing the transformation of fashion designs into tangible products by coordinating the sourcing of materials, analyzing costs, and supervising the development of samples and prototypes. Entry annual salary for product developers is $61,000. With further experience the average annual salary is $88,000 to $123,000.
• Quality Assurance: If you pursue a career in Quality Assurance, you would ensure that garments and products meet established quality standards and specifications through rigorous inspection and testing processes.
• Brand Manager: Consider a career overseeing the development, positioning, and promotion of a fashion brand to create a strong and distinct identity in the market.

Highlights

Entrepreneurial Excellence

Megan West, who graduated from CWU in 2013 with a degree in Apparel, Textiles and Merchandising, was honored as the Entrepreneur of the Year by the Washington State Main Street Program.

West is the owner of Claim Clothing in Ellensburg.

Student Fashion Association