Cost & earnings at University of Wisconsin–Parkside What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
This programme is a Bachelor-level Marketing degree with a specialist focus on international fashion marketing, designed for students who want to combine core marketing skills with knowledge of fashion markets, retail and global sourcing. It suits applicants interested in brand development, retail buying, e-commerce and international supply chains within the fashion and apparel sector.
The programme is built around core marketing foundations complemented by specialised modules and interdisciplinary electives that prepare you to work in global fashion contexts. Core business and marketing units typically include Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Digital Marketing, Brand Management and International Marketing. Fashion-focused study areas and electives commonly cover Retailing and Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Fashion Promotion and Communications, E‑commerce for Apparel, and Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Management.
Students are encouraged to take complementary courses from related departments — for example courses in entrepreneurship, graphic communication, photography, textiles or cultural studies — to develop practical skills such as visual presentation, digital content creation and trend analysis. Practical learning is emphasised through case studies, group projects, simulation-based modules and an industry project or internship that connects classroom learning with retail, buying or brand management practice.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (for example a high school diploma or international equivalent). Typical entry expectations include a satisfactory academic record and any required general education subjects; specific GPA or grade requirements are set by the university and may vary by applicant type.
Transfer applicants should present college transcripts demonstrating comparable coursework. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements via an accepted test (for example TOEFL, IELTS or an approved alternative) unless exempt. While a portfolio is not usually required for the marketing major, applicants with prior visual or design experience may find that relevant coursework or examples of work strengthen their application.
Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across the fashion and retail industries, both domestically and internationally. Common entry-level and mid-level positions include fashion buyer, retail manager, brand or product coordinator, e‑commerce manager, visual merchandiser, marketing analyst and international marketing coordinator. Graduates also move into roles in fashion PR and communications, wholesale and distribution, supply‑chain logistics for apparel, and trend forecasting.
The combination of marketing expertise and fashion-focused electives supports entrepreneurship and consultancy pathways for those interested in launching independent labels, pop‑up retail concepts or digital fashion platforms. Ongoing professional development and industry experience can lead to senior roles in brand management, merchandising leadership or global sourcing strategy.
University of Wisconsin–Parkside offers a business-focused learning environment with relatively small class sizes, enabling close interaction with faculty in the College of Business, Economics and Computing. The campus’s location within the Chicago–Milwaukee corridor provides access to regional retail and fashion industry networks for internships and employer engagement.
Students benefit from practical, applied learning opportunities such as internships, industry-sponsored projects and career services that support résumé development and employer connections. The university’s membership in the UW System also makes study abroad and exchange options accessible for students seeking international exposure, which is particularly valuable for an international fashion marketing focus.
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