Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme blends core marketing theory with fashion‑specific practice to develop skills in global brand management, retail and digital commerce. Study areas typically include consumer behaviour, strategic marketing, marketing analytics and international marketing alongside fashion‑centred modules such as fashion forecasting, retail merchandising and sourcing for global supply chains. Students usually complete a mix of required core courses, electives, and a final applied element — for example a capstone project, industry practicum or internship — allowing you to produce a portfolio of real‑world work for employers.

• Core marketing topics: consumer behaviour, marketing strategy, digital marketing and social media, marketing analytics.
• Fashion and retail topics: fashion forecasting and trend analysis, retail merchandising and buying, global sourcing and supply chain issues, luxury and brand management.
• International focus: global brand positioning, cross‑cultural marketing, international distribution and export considerations for apparel and accessories.
• Practical components: case studies, client projects with local and international fashion businesses, internship or capstone practicum, and portfolio development.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any discipline; degrees in business, marketing, communications, design or related fields are commonly held by successful applicants. Typical application materials include original transcripts, a current CV or résumé, a statement of purpose describing your interest in international fashion marketing and career objectives, and two to three professional or academic references. For international applicants, proof of English proficiency is required if your prior education was not in English (tests such as IELTS or TOEFL are accepted). Some applicants may be invited to submit a short portfolio or work samples that demonstrate interest or experience in fashion, branding or creative marketing. GRE/GMAT requirements vary by programme intake and applicant profile; check the admissions office for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across fashion, retail and related industries. Typical career paths include brand or product manager, fashion buyer or merchandise planner, e‑commerce and digital marketing specialist, retail operations or store development manager, international marketing manager, trend forecaster, and roles in fashion PR and communications. The global focus of the programme also prepares graduates for positions with international wholesalers, distributors and brand licensing teams, as well as consultancy and entrepreneurship within apparel, accessories and lifestyle brands.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s position in Chicago gives students direct access to a major US retail and fashion market with abundant internship and employer partnership opportunities across established brands, boutiques and emerging designers. The university’s business school emphasises experiential learning and close faculty‑student engagement, so students benefit from practitioner‑led teaching and applied projects with local industry partners. Additionally, the university’s global perspective and support services for international students help prepare graduates for cross‑border careers in fashion marketing, while career services assist with recruitment, networking and placement in the broader marketing and retail sectors.