Villanova University

What you'll study

The curriculum blends core marketing courses from the Villanova School of Business with specialised modules addressing the fashion sector and global marketing practice. You will study foundational business subjects such as accounting, economics, statistics and management alongside marketing courses including Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Brand Management and Marketing Research.

• Fashion and retail-focused modules: Fashion Marketing, Retail Management, Visual Merchandising, Merchandise Buying and Inventory Management, and E‑commerce for Fashion.
• International and digital marketing: International Marketing Strategy, Global Supply Chain and Sourcing, Cross‑Cultural Consumer Insights, Digital Marketing and Social Media for Fashion, and International Market Entry.
• Practical and experiential learning: Marketing analytics, capstone projects, team-based consulting projects with industry partners, and opportunities for internships in fashion houses, retailers and agencies.
• Complementary study: Electives or minors in areas such as entrepreneurship, sustainability in fashion, graphic communication, merchandising, or a foreign language to support international careers.

The programme typically culminates in an applied capstone or internship experience. Students are encouraged to pursue study abroad options and industry placements to gain international exposure and build professional networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to meet general undergraduate admissions standards for Villanova University, including successful completion of secondary education. Typical profile includes strong performance in college‑preparatory subjects; relevant coursework in mathematics and English is advantageous. Admissions may consider GPA, academic transcripts and a personal statement outlining interest in marketing and fashion.

• Recommended preparation: courses in mathematics, economics, business studies, art or design can strengthen an application.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency (for example IELTS or TOEFL) where applicable, plus documentation of previous secondary education equivalent to US high school graduation.
• Portfolio and interviews: a portfolio is not generally required for the marketing major, but candidates with demonstrated creative work, internships or relevant extracurricular experience in fashion, retail or marketing should highlight these in their application materials.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles across the fashion and retail industries where marketing, branding and international business skills are in demand. Common career paths include positions as brand or product manager, merchandise buyer, visual merchandiser, retail manager, e‑commerce manager, marketing analyst, public relations specialist, and account executive in fashion agencies.

Graduates also move into supply chain and sourcing roles for apparel companies, buyer roles at department stores and boutiques, and client‑facing roles in advertising and digital agencies. The programme’s emphasis on experiential learning and international exposure supports careers with multinational fashion houses, global retailers, start‑ups and fashion tech companies.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova offers this business‑focused pathway within an AACSB‑accredited business school, coupling rigorous marketing education with Villanova’s liberal arts foundation and Augustinian values emphasising ethical leadership and service. Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship provide personalised learning, while the university’s Philadelphia‑area location offers access to a vibrant retail and creative sector for internships and employer engagement.

Students benefit from career services, alumni networks and industry partnerships that help secure internships and graduate roles, alongside opportunities for study abroad to develop language skills and global market understanding. The programme’s balance of theory, analytics and hands‑on industry experience prepares graduates to pursue a variety of roles across the international fashion ecosystem.