Major in Apparel and Merchandising, Merchandising Concentration
Program Overview
The Merchandising concentration within Design and Merchandising focuses on skills and knowledge crucial for marketing and retailing consumer goods to a specific target audience. The four-year program includes coursework in areas such as consumer behavior, entrepreneurship, merchandising processes, promotion, retailing, and the global industry. Students are required to complete 120 credits and maintain a minimum grade of C in specific courses. Internship opportunities are available, and upon completion, graduates are prepared for careers in the merchandising field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Merchandising concentration focuses on developing knowledge and skills necessary for marketing and retailing consumer goods for a specific target market. This includes coursework in consumer behavior, entrepreneurship, merchandising processes/management, merchandise buying/procurement, promotion, retailing, retail store design, and the global industry (economics, politics, and trade).
Outline:
The program is structured across four years, with a total of 120 credits required for graduation. The program is divided into semesters, with specific courses required for each semester.
Freshman Year:
- Semester 1: AM 101 Fashion Industries, AM 130 Awareness and Appreciation of Design, CO 150 College Composition, DM 192A First Year Seminar: Apparel and Merchandising, MATH 117 College Algebra in Context I, MATH 118 College Algebra in Context II, and one course from PSY 100 General Psychology or SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology.
- Semester 2: AM 110 Apparel and Merchandising Digital Technology, CHEM 103 Chemistry in Context, CHEM 104 Chemistry in Context Laboratory, MATH 124 Logarithmic and Exponential Functions, one course from Arts and Humanities, one course from Biological and Physical Sciences, and one course from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Sophomore Year:
- Semester 3: ACT 205 Fundamentals of Accounting, AM 220 Textiles, AM 275 Product Development I, DM 272 Consumers in the Marketplace, and ECON 202 Principles of Microeconomics.
- Semester 4: AM 250 Dress and Human Behavior, AM 270 Merchandising Processes, SPCM 200 Public Speaking, and one course from STAT 201 General Statistics or STAT 204 Statistics With Business Applications.
Junior Year:
- Semester 5: AM 330 Global Sourcing of Textiles and Apparel, AM 366 Merchandising Promotion, AM 371 Merchandise Planning and Control, and MKT 305 Fundamentals of Marketing.
- Semester 6: AM 321 Advanced Textiles, DM 360/MKT 360 Retailing, DM 492 Professional Practice, MGT 305 Fundamentals of Management, and one course from FIN 305 Fundamentals of Finance.
Senior Year:
- Semester 7: AM 479 Merchandising Policies and Strategies, upper-division AM or DM electives, and electives.
- Semester 8: DM 487A Internship: Merchandising.
Other:
- Students can choose from a list of Internship Alternative Courses if they are not enrolled in an internship.
- The program requires a minimum grade of C (2.000) or better in specific courses, including AM 101, AM 130, AM 270, DM 272, MATH 117, MATH 118, and MATH 124.
- The program provides a detailed Major Completion Map outlining the required courses for each semester.
- Students can learn more about the Merchandising concentration on the Department of Design and Merchandising website.
Colorado State University
Overview:
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. CSU emphasizes a sense of community and a shared energy among students, faculty, and staff, all driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSU offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover new possibilities both inside and outside the classroom. The university boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader Fort Collins community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Groundbreaking Research:
CSU is a leading research institution, with faculty and students actively engaged in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.Transformative Student Body:
The university attracts a diverse and motivated student population, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.Beautiful Location:
Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, CSU offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.Commitment to Impact:
CSU emphasizes the importance of making a positive difference in the world, encouraging students to pursue careers and research that address global challenges.Academic Programs:
CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 70 majors across nearly 300 programs. The university is particularly known for its strengths in:
Engineering:
CSU's College of Engineering is highly regarded, with programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among others.Agriculture and Natural Resources:
CSU is a leading institution in agricultural research and education, with strong programs in animal science, horticulture, and environmental science.Health Sciences:
CSU offers a variety of health-related programs, including nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences.Other:
CSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and keynote speaker series. The university also has a strong alumni network and a vibrant community in Fort Collins.
