Indiana University

What you'll study

This programme blends studio-based design with materials science, surface and construction techniques, and industry-relevant business skills. Core study areas typically include textile fibres and yarns, woven and knit structures, fabric performance and testing, patternmaking and garment construction, digital design and CAD for textiles, surface design and print, colour theory, and sustainable materials and processes.

• Studio practice: drawing, draping, pattern development, sewing labs and portfolio development.
• Textile science: fibre chemistry, testing methods, finishings, durability and care.
• Digital skills: textile CAD, Adobe suite applications, digital print workflow and technical flats.
• Product development and sourcing: spec sheets, costings, supply chain fundamentals and quality control.
• Business and contextual studies: merchandising, retail strategies, consumer behaviour, and ethical/sustainable fashion systems.
• Capstone or practicum: industry projects, research in textile topics or an internship-based final project.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions look for evidence of aptitude in creative and technical work alongside solid academic achievement. Applicants with a portfolio that demonstrates design thinking, drawing or sewn work will be competitive for design-focused paths.

• Academic: satisfactory high‑school grades across a broad curriculum; stronger performance in maths or sciences is advantageous for textile science components.
• Portfolio: recommended for students aiming at the more design- and studio-based tracks; include sketches, photos of sewn garments, and any textile samples or digital work.
• Preparation: prior experience in art, design, technology, or textiles is helpful but not always mandatory; practical workshops or introductory courses can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across apparel, home textiles and technical textiles. The programme equips students to work at the intersection of creativity, materials and commerce.

• Apparel/product designer or assistant designer
• Textile designer, surface pattern designer or print specialist
• Product developer, technical designer or garment technologist focusing on fit, specs and quality
• Merchandiser, buyer or retail planner
• Quality assurance, sourcing coordinator or supply‑chain specialist
• Sustainability analyst, materials researcher or roles in circular design and textile recycling enterprises
• Further study and research in textile science, materials innovation or fashion business

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers a multidisciplinary environment where apparel and textiles students can combine creative studio work with strong technical and business training. Students gain access to dedicated labs and studios, opportunities for internships with regional and national industry partners, and cross‑disciplinary courses that link design, merchandising and materials science.

The university’s emphasis on experiential learning means students can pursue applied projects, collaborative research and industry placements that strengthen employability. Small studio classes and faculty with both academic and industry experience help students build practical skills, professional portfolios and networks for careers in apparel and textiles.