B.A. in Fashion Merchandising and Design

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $55

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Central Michigan University (CMU) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit, talent, or specific criteria. 

Global Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate international students with a strong academic record and a promoting cultural exchange. Recipients of this scholarship serve as cultural ambassadors on campus.

International Opportunity Awards: These awards are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. They are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the CMU community.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within CMU may offer scholarships specific to their field of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievement and may require students to meet certain criteria.

External Scholarships: CMU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from organizations, foundations, and governments. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance on identifying and applying for these scholarships.

CMU Merit Scholarships: While primarily available to domestic students, CMU does offer merit-based scholarships that may be accessible to high-achieving international students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts can change from year to year.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Fashion Merchandising and Design from Central Michigan University are well-prepared to enter various sectors of the fashion industry, leveraging their blend of design expertise and merchandising skills. The program equips students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue a range of career paths in this dynamic field. 

Fashion Merchandiser: Fashion merchandisers analyze market trends and consumer behavior to determine which products will be successful in retail settings. They work with designers and retailers to plan and promote fashion collections, manage inventory, and optimize sales strategies. Their role involves coordinating fashion shows, organizing marketing campaigns, and ensuring that merchandise aligns with market demands.

Fashion Designer: Fashion designers create and develop clothing and accessory lines, blending creativity with technical skills. They work on designing garments, selecting fabrics, and overseeing the production process. Designers may work for fashion houses, design studios, or launch their own brands, contributing to the latest fashion trends and innovations.

Visual Merchandiser: Visual merchandisers are responsible for creating engaging and aesthetically pleasing displays in retail environments. They use their knowledge of design principles and consumer psychology to enhance store layouts, window displays, and in-store promotions, aiming to attract customers and boost sales.

Fashion Buyer: Fashion buyers select and purchase clothing, accessories, and other merchandise for retail stores or online platforms. They analyze sales data, trends, and consumer preferences to make informed purchasing decisions. Buyers often travel to fashion shows and trade shows to source new products and negotiate with suppliers.

Retail Manager: Retail managers oversee the daily operations of retail stores, including staff management, customer service, and sales strategies. They ensure that the store meets its financial targets, provides a positive shopping experience, and maintains visual standards. Retail managers also handle inventory control and implement marketing initiatives.

Fashion Public Relations Specialist: Fashion public relations specialists manage the public image of fashion brands and designers. They develop and execute PR strategies, handle media relations, and organize events such as fashion shows and press releases. Their goal is to build and maintain a positive brand reputation and increase media exposure.

Costume Designer: Costume designers work in the entertainment industry to create clothing and accessories for theater, film, and television productions. They collaborate with directors and producers to design costumes that reflect characters and settings, ensuring that the wardrobe complements the overall production vision.

Fashion Consultant: Fashion consultants provide personalized style advice to clients, helping them develop their wardrobes and enhance their personal style. They may work independently or as part of a consultancy firm, offering services such as personal shopping, wardrobe planning, and image consulting.

Textile Designer: Textile designers specialize in creating patterns and designs for fabrics used in clothing, upholstery, and other applications. They work with manufacturers and designers to develop unique textiles that meet specific functional and aesthetic requirements.