Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational business and marketing theory with specialised studies in fashion, retail and international market strategy. You will study core topics in marketing alongside modules tailored to the fashion sector and global trade.

• Core marketing foundations: Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Brand Management, Digital and Social Media Marketing, Marketing Analytics.
• Fashion‑specific modules: Fashion Merchandising and Buying, Product Development for Fashion, Visual Merchandising, Trend Forecasting, Apparel Supply Chain and Sourcing.
• International focus: International Marketing Strategy, Global Retailing, Cross‑cultural Consumer Insights, Trade and Logistics for Fashion, International Market Entry and Negotiation.
• Practical and integrated learning: Studio projects, case studies with industry partners, e‑commerce and visual display labs, and a capstone project that typically addresses a real challenge faced by a fashion brand or retailer.
• Work experience: The programme encourages and facilitates cooperative education placements, internships or practicum terms with fashion companies, retailers or marketing agencies to build professional experience and networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admission is competitive and considers academic performance, the strength of your transcript, and any relevant experiences.

• Typical academic preparation: good grades in English and mathematics; coursework in business, economics, art or design is advantageous.
• Portfolio: while not always mandatory for the marketing pathway, applicants with a background in fashion, design or visual merchandising may submit a brief portfolio or visual project samples to demonstrate creative capability.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English; accepted evidence may include recognised English tests or school‑based qualifications.
• Additional materials: a personal statement outlining interest in fashion marketing and career goals, and references or recommendation letters may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the fashion and retail sectors, with opportunities in both brand and agency environments as well as in start‑ups and consultancy.

• Fashion brand manager or assistant product manager
• Buyer or merchandiser for retailers and departments stores
• Digital marketing specialist or e‑commerce manager focusing on fashion
• Visual merchandiser, store planner or retail operations coordinator
• International sales manager or export coordinator
• Market researcher or consumer insight analyst specialising in apparel and lifestyle products
• Supply chain and sourcing analyst for fashion businesses
• Entrepreneurship — launching direct‑to‑consumer fashion brands or boutique retail concepts

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology provides a practical, career‑oriented education with strong connections to industry. The university emphasises experiential learning through a well‑established cooperative education programme and internship opportunities that link classroom theory with workplace practice.

• Interdisciplinary strengths: Students benefit from collaboration across business, design and technology schools, accessing expertise in marketing analytics, e‑commerce and visual communication.
• Co‑op and employer links: RIT's co‑operative education model helps students secure paid placements and build professional networks within fashion houses, retailers and marketing firms.
• Global perspective: Opportunities for study abroad and engagement with RIT's global campuses support an understanding of international markets and cross‑cultural business practice.
• Facilities and support: Access to specialised labs, career services and alumni mentoring helps graduates transition into roles across the fashion supply chain and marketing spectrum.