Essential Information
Though a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Marketing is the more common degree offered, students can find Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree programs in the field. Some programs recommend that students pursue a minor in an area, such as graphic or interior design or integrated media. Graduates might find work in retail or advertising and promotion. Prospective students should have a high school diploma or the equivalent for admission to a bachelor's program.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Marketing
Through both classroom studies and cooperative work experiences, fashion marketing students explore the history of fashion and study ways to market textiles, apparel, accessories and cosmetics. Coursework addresses a number of fashion topics, such as visual merchandising and forecasting, as well as selling, consumer behavior, clothing selection, portfolio presentation, and accounting. In addition to lectures, some programs require that students complete a practicum or internship. Courses common to fashion marketing programs include:
- Finance
- Global diversity
- Clothing construction and accessories
- Drawing and image building
- Advertising
- Fashion buying and analysis
Popular Career Options
With a BFA degree in fashion marketing, graduates can study fashion trends and inform company representatives about their research. They also might work with other promotional personnel to develop attractive ad campaigns for fashion companies. Some common careers for fashion marketing graduates include:
- Fashion consultant
- Department manager
- Marketing assistant
- Product manager
- Purchasing manager
Career Outlook
Projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) list 3% change in job growth for purchasing managers from 2019 to 2029. As of May 2020, BLS salary data indicated median annual wages of $41,580 for retail department managers and $125,940 for purchasing managers, while PayScale.com reported a median income of $39,043 per year for marketing assistants in April of 2021.
Continuing Education Information
Graduates of a BFA program in fashion marketing could go on to pursue a master's degree in fashion studies. These programs can help students qualify for careers as researchers or fashion curators. Usually, they're more focused on theoretical coursework in fashion relating to history or society.
A Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in fashion marketing typically involves a blend of coursework and practical experience. This degree can qualify graduates for a variety of occupations in the fashion industry as well as advanced degree options.