Fashion & Textile Design Graduate Programs

Fashion and Textile Design Graduate Programs and Curriculum

Graduate programs in fashion and textile design often focus on the following coursework:

• Design studio
• Drawing
• Textiles
• Dyeing
• Knitting and weaving
• Fashion presentation
• CAD design

Many programs also cover public relations, contracts and copyrights, business management and other related topics. Hands-on experience is encouraged and most programs include the completion of a thesis project.

While a bachelor’s degree in fashion is often not necessary, some prerequisite coursework may be needed. Most programs look for experience in the fashion industry or coursework related to the field. Courses in fashion, design, drawing and art and fashion history are all common prerequisites. Many programs also request that individuals submit a portfolio with their admissions application.

If you are seeking an accredited program, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits programs in art and design.

Fashion and Textile Design Career Paths

Graduates ofmaster’s programs in fashion and textile design find work in a variety of venues including manufacturing establishments, wholesale merchandising, with design firms and as freelance designers.

In 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the majority of fashion and textile designers are self-employed while others work as merchant wholesalers and apparel manufactures.

Data according to

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-11: Ed.

Data according to

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-11: Ed.

Fashion and Textile Future Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries in fashion and textile design often depend upon overall experience. In 2008, the average salary for fashion and textile designers was estimated to be around $60,000. Employment in fashion and textile design will remain competitive with only a 1 percent growth rate expected by 2018. New jobs and the best employment opportunities are expected to be situated within established design firms that create mass-market clothing.