Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

This programme combines core marketing principles with fashion industry‑specific subjects and global business perspectives. Modules typically cover international brand management, consumer behaviour, digital and social media marketing, fashion merchandising and assortment planning, retail strategy, luxury brand management, trend forecasting and product development. Students also study supply chain and sourcing for fashion, marketing analytics and e‑commerce operations to prepare for cross‑border retail and omnichannel environments.

Teaching uses a mixture of lectures, case studies, workshops and industry projects. Practical elements may include a capstone consultancy project or practicum with a fashion brand or retailer, portfolio development, and opportunities to present strategic plans to industry partners. There is scope to select electives that focus on areas such as sustainability in fashion, visual merchandising, or international market entry strategies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline; degrees in business, marketing, design or related fields are appropriate but not mandatory. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a current CV, and a personal statement outlining professional aims and interest in international fashion marketing. Referees' reports or academic references are commonly required.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or approved institutional equivalents if their prior education was not in English. Relevant professional experience in retail, marketing, buying or fashion design can strengthen an application. Some specialisms may invite a short interview or submission of a professional/creative portfolio, particularly for applicants emphasising merchandising, visual merchandising or product development.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles across the fashion and retail sectors. Typical career paths include brand or product manager, fashion buyer, merchandising analyst, retail manager, e‑commerce manager, category manager, trend forecaster, luxury retail specialist, or marketing communications and PR roles focused on fashion. The international focus also prepares graduates for roles in global sourcing, market expansion and retail operations across different regions.

Skills developed on the programme — strategic marketing planning, data‑driven decision making, digital commerce, and an understanding of global supply chains and consumer trends — are valued by fashion houses, multi‑brand retailers, online marketplaces, consultancy firms and startups in the fashion tech space.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson provides a small‑group learning environment with faculty who combine academic expertise and industry experience in marketing and fashion. The university’s campuses are positioned close to major fashion and retail centres, offering access to internship and networking opportunities with brands, retailers and agencies. Career and placement services support students with employer engagement, CV and interview preparation, and internship sourcing.

The programme emphasises applied learning through client projects and professional partnerships, helping students build a practical portfolio and industry contacts. Its international orientation and flexibility — with options for full‑time or part‑time study — make it suitable for both recent graduates and working professionals seeking to advance or pivot into the global fashion marketing sector.