University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme blends creative design with technical understanding of fibres, fabrics and production processes. Core modules commonly include textiles science (fibre and fabric technology), apparel construction and patternmaking, textile testing and quality assurance, apparel production systems, merchandising and retail management, and consumer behaviour. Studio-based courses develop design thinking, portfolio work, draping, sewing techniques and CAD for fashion and textile design.

Students also encounter applied topics such as sourcing and supply-chain management, sustainable textiles and industry-standard manufacturing practices. Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory practicals, sewing and design studios, computer labs for CAD and textile simulation, group projects and industry-linked placements or internships. Electives and capstone projects allow specialisation in areas such as apparel design, technical textiles, costume studies or textile entrepreneurship.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Typical entry expectations include sufficient achievement in relevant subjects and demonstration of interest in textiles or design.

Applicants are encouraged to present a creative portfolio showing examples of design, sewing or textile work where available; a portfolio is helpful but not always mandatory. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or vocational experience are considered on an individual basis. International applicants must meet English language requirements set by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the apparel and textile sector. Common career paths include apparel and fashion designer, textile technologist, production planner or production manager, quality assurance specialist, technical designer, merchandiser or buyer, and retail or brand management.

Other opportunities include roles in textile testing and laboratory services, sustainability and corporate social responsibility for fashion brands, costume design for theatre and film, and entrepreneurship in small-batch fashion or textile businesses. Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in textile science, design innovation, business management or teacher training for a move into education.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a programme grounded in practical, hands-on learning with access to studios, textile labs and industry-standard equipment that support both creative and technical training. Faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience, and students benefit from opportunities for internships, local industry partnerships and collaborative projects that connect study to workplace practice.

Smaller class sizes enable personalised mentoring and portfolio development, while extracurricular activities—such as student design initiatives and fashion events—provide platforms to build professional networks. The programme’s balance of design, science and business prepares graduates to adapt across the evolving apparel and textiles industry.