Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

This programme blends general business and marketing foundations with fashion‑specific topics and international perspectives. Typical components include core marketing subjects such as consumer behaviour, marketing research, brand management, digital marketing and international marketing, together with fashion‑centred modules such as fashion merchandising, visual merchandising, buying and assortment planning, trend forecasting, sourcing and supply chain for apparel, and sustainability in fashion.

Study is organised across general education requirements, business and marketing core courses, fashion electives and applied experience. Students take practical workshops in visual presentation and styling, complete case studies on real brands, and develop e‑commerce and social media campaigns. A capstone project or senior portfolio pulls together a strategic marketing plan for a fashion brand or retail concept. There are also opportunities for internships with retailers, brands and agencies, and for short‑term study abroad or industry visits to major fashion centres.

Entry requirements

Admission is typically at undergraduate level for applicants with a secondary school completion credential or equivalent. Successful applicants usually present a competitive academic record, a personal statement explaining interest in fashion marketing, and letters of recommendation where required. Standardised tests may be optional depending on the campus and applicant background.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements by recognised tests or prior study in English. Because this is a marketing programme with a creative focus, applicants who have completed coursework or extracurricular experience in art, design, retail or business should highlight that on their application; some students choose to submit a small portfolio of creative work or a visual resume, though this is typically recommended rather than mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across the fashion, retail and luxury sectors. Typical entry and mid‑level roles include fashion buyer, merchandise planner, retail manager, visual merchandiser, e‑commerce manager, digital marketing specialist, brand or product assistant, PR/co‑mmunications coordinator and trend analyst. Other possibilities include sourcing and supply chain coordinator, sustainability officer for apparel brands, and roles in wholesale and distribution.

The combination of marketing skills and fashion knowledge also prepares graduates for entrepreneurship or consultancy—launching independent labels, pop‑up retail concepts, or digital boutiques—and for further study in marketing, fashion management or business disciplines.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers a liberal arts‑infused business education with access to practical, career‑oriented learning. Small class sizes and close faculty mentoring help students develop both creative and analytical strengths. The university’s location in the New Jersey metropolitan area provides proximity to major fashion and retail hubs, facilitating internships, industry guest speakers and networking opportunities.

FDU also emphasises international experience; students can take advantage of study abroad options and exchange programmes to gain exposure to global fashion markets. Career services support internship placement, résumé development and employer connections that help bridge academic study and industry employment.