Fashion Merchandising (B.S.) Student Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising prepares students for meeting the apparel and related-product needs of individuals through the effective merchandising of these goods to end use consumers. Toward this end, graduates will be able to execute the following skills upon completion of the program:

  • Demonstrate understanding of the fashion process, i.e., the fashion life cycle, the forces that inhibit, encourage and shape fashion change; and theories that address the source of new styles and their adoption within consumer markets
  • Use appropriate terminology in identifying and describing design elements and principles pertaining to apparel design and selling environments
  • Evaluate and select appropriate textile products given specific end uses and consumer markets
  • Apply social science concepts and theories in anticipating the fashion product and shopping needs and preferences of specific consumer markets
  • Demonstrate different functions of the merchandising process, including the development of buying plans, promotional materials and events and sales strategies for multiple retail channels
  • Utilize an understanding of the textile and apparel sector’s role in the global economy, as well as relevant trade legislation, in anticipating factors shaping sourcing decisions for textile and apparel materials and end-use products
  • Utilize appropriate resources and technologies in carrying out the following:
    • Apply critical and creative thinking in identifying solutions to apparel industry-based problems and challenges
    • Demonstrate proficient written, oral and visual communication skills
  • Execute professional development through securing and successfully carrying out the responsibilities of a cooperative education or internship position at a fashion industry or related place of business

Contact Us

Fashion Merchandising

Sarah Cosbey
Associate Professor and Area Coordinator
815-753-6336
scosbey@niu.edu 

Family and Consumer Sciences

118 Wirtz Hall
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1543
facs@niu.edu

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