| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-08-01 | - |
| 2024-04-01 | - |
| 2024-04-15 | - |
| 2024-02-15 | - |
Program Overview
equips students with analytical skills to navigate industry challenges, integrating historical and theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The program prepares graduates for careers in fashion design, buying, marketing, supply chain management, and more. Emphasizing environmental responsibility and a global perspective, the M.F.I.S.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Fashion Industry Studies (M.F.I.S.) degree program at Kent State University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the competitive global fashion industry. The program emphasizes a cross-disciplinary approach, integrating historical and theoretical knowledge with practical applications. It aims to prepare professionals who can address complex industry challenges and provide impactful solutions.
Objectives:
The program aims to develop students' abilities to:
- Analyze fashion industry problems and identify pertinent issues.
- Employ research methods to solve industry problems.
- Analyze and synthesize data to generate pragmatic solutions.
- Communicate effectively through visual, spoken, and written means.
- Generate solutions that create long-term value and shared prosperity for stakeholders.
- Appreciate diverse viewpoints and cultural factors in developing solutions.
Description:
The M.F.I.S. degree program addresses the interdisciplinary nature of fashion as an industry. It provides students with critical and analytical skills to tackle fashion industry challenges, integrating historical and theoretical knowledge while emphasizing effective communication, environmental responsibility, and a global perspective.
Careers:
The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the fashion industry, including:
- Fashion designers
- Buyers and purchasing agents
- Market research analysts and marketing specialists
- Fashion entrepreneurs
- Supply chain directors or managers
- Assistant buyers
- Students without a fashion background may be required to complete foundational coursework (FDM 10033 and FDM 10034) concurrently during the first semester and either FDM 20030 or FDM 30262. These undergraduate credit hours are in addition to the 30 graduate credit hours required for the M.F.I.S. degree.
- The program emphasizes the importance of environmental and social responsibility in the fashion industry.
- The program offers a global perspective on the fashion industry.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in a practicum or thesis project.
- The program is delivered in person on the Kent Campus.
Kent State University
Overview:
Kent State University is a leading public university in Ohio, known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates, across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Kent State University provides a rich and engaging campus experience for its students. The university offers a variety of resources and opportunities for students to get involved, including:
Arts & Culture:
Students can explore various artistic expressions through events, performances, and exhibitions.Clubs & Organizations:
A wide range of student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests, fostering a sense of community and leadership development.Dining:
The university provides various dining options, including on-campus restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.Housing:
Kent State offers a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls, apartments, and off-campus living arrangements.Student Involvement:
The university encourages student involvement through various programs and initiatives, promoting leadership, service, and personal growth.Recreation and Wellness Services:
Students can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fitness centers, intramural sports, club sports, and outdoor adventures.Campus Resources:
The university provides a comprehensive range of support services for students, including health services, mental health services, academic advising, and career counseling.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Programs:
Kent State University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Colleges:
The university is organized into several colleges, each specializing in specific areas of study.Majors & Degrees:
Students can choose from a variety of majors and degrees, including undergraduate and graduate programs.Online Degrees & Certificates:
The university offers a selection of online degree and certificate programs for flexible learning options.ROTC Programs:
Kent State offers ROTC programs for students interested in military service.University Catalog:
The university catalog provides detailed information about academic programs, courses, and policies.Other:
Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is required.
- GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.300 on a 4.000-point scale is required (starting with fall 2025 admission term, minimum 3.000 GPA will be required).
- Transcripts: Official transcripts(s) are required.
- Résumé: A résumé is required.
- Goal statement: A goal statement (maximum 1,000 words) relating career/academic goals and research interests as they relate to critical issue(s) the applicant has identified in current fashion industry practice is required.
- Supportive materials: Supportive materials that demonstrate research and writing capabilities (e.g., significant term paper, research project report) are required.
- Optional visual portfolio: Applications may also submit an optional visual portfolio with a minimum of 5-10 examples of work in any media documenting the design process.
- Letters of recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required.
- Students pursuing coursework or thesis research in a design topic: Students who are expecting to pursue coursework or thesis research in a design topic are required to possess a bachelor's degree in fashion design or a bachelor's degree in a related field and substantial employment experience (minimum two years) in the fashion industry.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students: All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:
- Minimum 94 TOEFL iBT score
- Minimum 7.0 IELTS score
- Minimum 65 PTE score
- Minimum 120 DET score
