University of Hartford

What you'll study

The programme combines core marketing theory with fashion‑specific practice and international perspectives. Teaching typically covers strategic marketing, consumer insight, digital channels and the commercial realities of the fashion industry, delivered through lectures, workshops, studio projects and an applied capstone.

Typical modules and topics

• Global Fashion Marketing Strategy – positioning, international market entry and competitive analysis for fashion brands.
• Consumer Behaviour and Trend Forecasting – studying buying motivations, cultural influences and methods for forecasting trends.
• Brand Management and Communications – brand identity, storytelling, PR and integrated communications for fashion labels.
• Digital, Social Media and E‑commerce – online merchandising, social strategy, analytics and platform management.
• Retail, Merchandising and Buying – assortment planning, pricing, distribution channels and supplier relationships.
• Supply Chain, Sourcing and Sustainability – ethical sourcing, lifecycle thinking and sustainability practice in apparel supply chains.
• Research Methods and Applied Project – quantitative and qualitative methods plus a capstone consultancy project, industry placement or thesis focused on a real fashion marketing challenge.

Students often work on live briefs with industry partners and have opportunities to collaborate with design or production disciplines to develop commercially viable fashion products and campaigns.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in a related subject such as marketing, business, fashion, design or a demonstrated equivalent level of professional experience. Candidates with relevant industry experience but from non‑traditional academic backgrounds are also considered.

A concise portfolio or examples of recent marketing, design or commercial work that demonstrate interest in fashion marketing is recommended for applicants to the specialism. Evidence of English language proficiency is required from applicants whose first language is not English.

Admissions may also consider references and a personal statement outlining motivations and career aims. Some applicants may be invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across the fashion value chain and international markets. Typical career paths include:

• Brand manager or marketing manager for fashion labels
• Buyer, merchandiser or assortment planner for retailers
• Digital marketing specialist, social media manager or e‑commerce manager
• Product manager or category manager in apparel and accessories
• Trend forecaster, retail strategist or consumer insight analyst
• Public relations, communications consultant or fashion events manager
• Entrepreneurship — launching independent fashion brands or consultancies

The programme's practical projects, internships and industry links are designed to help students build a professional portfolio and network to support job entry or progression.

Why study at University of Hartford

• Cross‑disciplinary environment – opportunities to collaborate with creative departments and business faculty to blend design sensibility with commercial marketing skills.
• Industry connections and practical focus – curriculum emphasises live industry briefs, internship opportunities and applied capstone projects with fashion employers and retailers.
• Access to regional fashion and retail centres – proximity to major metropolitan markets provides access to industry events, showrooms and networking opportunities.
• Small class sizes and personalised support – close faculty supervision, career services and tailored professional development to help students transition into the fashion sector.
• Emphasis on sustainable and ethical practice – coursework addresses contemporary challenges in sourcing, sustainability and responsible branding that are increasingly important in global fashion.