Point Park University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational marketing theory with fashion industry practice. Core marketing modules cover consumer behaviour, marketing research, branding, digital marketing, and strategic marketing planning. Fashion-specialist courses typically include fashion merchandising, retail buying, visual merchandising, trend forecasting, product development, and international fashion marketing and sourcing.

Students also study complementary business subjects such as international business, supply-chain management, retail operations, pricing strategy and fashion law/regulation. Practical learning features include a marketing capstone or senior project, case studies, hands-on courses in e-commerce and social media for fashion, and opportunities for industry-focused portfolio development.

The programme structure normally includes general education requirements, a sequence of marketing core courses, fashion elective options, and experiential components such as internships, cooperative placements or practicum projects. Study-abroad modules or short-term international study opportunities may be available to support the international marketing emphasis.

• Marketing fundamentals: consumer behaviour, marketing research, branding
• Digital & e-commerce: social media strategy, online retailing, analytics
• Fashion specialisms: merchandising, retail buying, visual merchandising, trend forecasting
• Business foundations: international business, supply-chain/logistics, accounting basics
• Experiential learning: internships, capstone project, industry partnerships

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with satisfactory academic performance in relevant subjects. Admissions consider a combination of grades, personal statement, and recommendation letters. Some applicants may be asked to provide a portfolio or examples of creative work if they have relevant fashion experience, though a portfolio is not always mandatory.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternative evidence. Mature or transfer applicants are considered on a case-by-case basis; transfer credit may be awarded for comparable college-level coursework. Specific GPA thresholds, standardised test policies and documentation requirements are published by the university and should be checked with admissions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across the fashion and retail sectors, particularly where marketing intersects with product and global distribution. Common entry and mid-level roles include marketing coordinator, fashion buyer, merchandise planner, e-commerce manager, brand assistant, retail manager, visual merchandiser and social media/PR specialist. With experience, graduates may advance to roles such as brand manager, category director, global sourcing analyst or head of retail operations.

The programme’s emphasis on international marketing and supply-chain awareness also suits careers in sourcing, import/export, trade compliance and international business development for apparel and lifestyle brands. Practical experience gained through internships and industry projects often helps graduates secure positions with boutiques, regional and national retailers, wholesale brands, digital platforms and marketing agencies.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park University offers a practice-driven approach with small class sizes and direct access to faculty with industry experience. Located in an urban setting, students benefit from proximity to Pittsburgh’s retail, creative and business communities for internships, part-time work and collaborative projects.

The university emphasises experiential learning—internships, client projects and a capstone—so students build a professional portfolio while studying. Resources such as career services, industry events, and networking opportunities help connect students with employers in fashion, retail and marketing. For students seeking a hands-on, career-focused degree that links marketing strategy with the realities of the global fashion industry, Point Park provides a supportive environment and practical pathways into the field.