Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The degree is built on a marketing core that covers marketing principles, consumer behaviour, marketing research, digital marketing and brand management, with specialised courses and electives focused on fashion-related markets and international trade. Teaching methods include lectures, case studies, group projects, applied assignments and workplace-focused internships.

• Core marketing modules: Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Research, Marketing Strategy, Digital and Social Media Marketing.
• International and retail modules: International Marketing, Global Sourcing and Supply Chains, Retail Management, International Retailing.
• Fashion-focused modules: Fashion Merchandising, Visual Merchandising and Merchandising Planning, Fashion Forecasting, Apparel Product Development (where available), Brand and Product Management for Apparel.
• Supporting business modules: Accounting for Decision Makers, Business Law, E-commerce, Sales and Negotiation, Logistics and Distribution.
• Practical experience: Internship / practicum placements with retailers, brands, wholesalers or marketing agencies; applied projects with industry partners; portfolio development and capstone marketing project.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the undergraduate marketing programme within the Jones College of Business and follows standard university undergraduate entry procedures. Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent.

• Typical academic preparation includes coursework in English and mathematics; prior study in business, economics or art/fashion-related subjects is useful but not always required.
• Selection is based on overall academic record; successful applicants generally present solid grades in secondary studies. Specific minimum GPA or testing thresholds are set by the university and should be checked on the official admissions pages.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements (for example, TOEFL or IELTS) and provide credential evaluation as requested by the admissions office.
• Transfer applicants from community colleges are welcomed; relevant transferable credits in business and marketing will be evaluated for degree progression.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of roles across fashion and retail sectors, benefitting from both marketing expertise and fashion-sector knowledge. Career paths typically include:

• Merchandiser or Assistant Buyer for retail chains and fashion brands
• Brand or Product Manager focused on apparel and accessories
• Retail Manager, Store Operations or Visual Merchandising Specialist
• E-commerce or Digital Marketing Specialist for fashion retailers
• Global sourcing coordinator, supply chain analyst or international sales representative
• Marketing coordinator roles in advertising, PR or specialised fashion agencies; entrepreneurship in fashion retail or direct-to-consumer brands

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU offers a business-focused marketing degree housed in the Jones College of Business with access to practical learning opportunities, internships and industry partnerships that support entry into fashion and retail roles. The university’s location provides proximity to a lively creative scene and regional retail employers, enabling students to pursue hands-on experience while studying.

Students benefit from small-group teaching in upper-level courses, career services that connect students to employers, and options to combine marketing study with electives or minors that enhance fashion-sector knowledge, such as merchandising, apparel-related subjects or international business. The programme emphasises applied skills—market research, digital marketing, merchandising planning and professional internships—so graduates are prepared for the operational and strategic demands of international fashion marketing.