Central Washington University

What you'll study

The degree is built around marketing fundamentals and fashion-focused electives that prepare you to work across the fashion supply chain and global retail environments. You will complete core business and marketing modules such as Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Brand Management and Digital Marketing, alongside specialised courses aimed at fashion and international trade.

• Core marketing: marketing strategy, consumer insights, marketing communications, pricing and product management.
• Fashion and retail electives: fashion merchandising, retail buying and assortment planning, visual merchandising, trend forecasting and product development.
• International focus: international marketing, global sourcing and supply chain management, cross-cultural consumer behaviour, and export/import practices.
• Digital and commerce: e-commerce strategy, social media for fashion brands, retail analytics and omnichannel retailing.
• Practical learning: industry projects, case studies and a supervised internship or practicum with retailers, brands or related organisations.
• Capstone/portfolio: a senior project or capstone that typically involves developing a market entry plan, brand launch or merchandising strategy for an international fashion client.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent. Admission decisions consider academic record, preparation in college-preparatory subjects, a personal statement and recommendations. Transfer applicants are assessed on college-level coursework and credit transfer policies.

• Successful applicants typically present coursework in English and mathematics from secondary school.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test score or approved institutional proof of English-language readiness.
• Relevant experience (part-time retail, design internships, volunteer roles) can strengthen an application, especially for competitive places in fashion-oriented pathways.
• There may be additional departmental advising or orientation for students selecting the international fashion marketing emphasis.

Career prospects

Graduates combine marketing skills with fashion-sector knowledge, making them attractive to a range of employers in retail, brand management and international trade. Career pathways commonly followed by alumni include:

• Merchandise planner, buyer or assortment manager for retailers and online platforms.
• Brand or product manager for fashion labels and consumer-goods companies.
• E-commerce and digital marketing specialist focused on fashion and lifestyle brands.
• Visual merchandiser, retail store manager or showroom coordinator.
• International sourcing coordinator, import/export analyst or supply-chain specialist for apparel and accessories.
• Creative roles that bridge marketing and product development, such as trend analyst or marketing communications coordinator.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a student-centred learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty who teach applied business and marketing skills. The programme emphasises hands-on experience through projects and internships, helping students build professional portfolios and industry contacts. Located in Washington state, CWU students can take advantage of regional retail and creative industries as internship sites and networking opportunities. Advising and career services support practical preparation for international and domestic roles in the fashion and retail sectors.