Roger Williams University

What you'll study

The programme couples a foundation in marketing with targeted courses that address the fashion industry’s product, retail and brand challenges on a global scale. Core marketing modules typically include Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Brand Management and Digital Marketing. Fashion-focused and international modules commonly cover Fashion Merchandising, Retail Management, Visual Merchandising, International Marketing, Global Sourcing and Supply Chain, Trend Forecasting, and E‑commerce for Fashion.

Students work on applied projects such as developing go‑to‑market plans for apparel or accessories, creating visual merchandising schemes, running digital campaigns, and analysing cross‑border retail strategies. The curriculum frequently culminates in a capstone or practicum project and encourages an industry placement so students can gain real-world experience in buying, merchandising, marketing communications or retail operations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Admissions decisions are typically based on academic records, a personal statement outlining interest in marketing and fashion, and a record of extracurricular activities or relevant work experience. Some applicants may be invited to an interview.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Portfolios are not usually required for admission to the marketing programme but can be helpful to demonstrate creative work, internships or relevant projects.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across fashion, retail and wider consumer goods sectors. Typical job titles include Fashion Buyer, Merchandise Planner, Brand or Product Manager, Retail Manager, E‑commerce Specialist, Visual Merchandiser, Marketing Coordinator, Sourcing Analyst and International Marketing Manager. Many alumni also progress into roles in fashion PR, wholesale sales, trend forecasting, or start their own fashion enterprises.

The programme’s emphasis on internships, employer projects and international perspectives supports entry into global supply chains and multinational retail operations as well as positions with independent designers, boutique retailers and digital fashion platforms.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams offers small class sizes and close faculty support, which benefits students seeking hands‑on learning and personalised mentorship. The university’s location in Rhode Island provides convenient access to regional design and retail centres in New England, and the curriculum typically contains strong practical elements—internships, industry projects and opportunities for study abroad—that are valuable for a career in international fashion marketing.

Students also benefit from campus career services and employer networks that help secure internships and graduate roles, as well as facilities and resources that support project‑based learning in marketing, digital media and retail practice.