Apparel Merchandising
WSU’s Apparel Merchandising, Design & Textiles Website
My studies at Washington State University have consisted of taking coursework within the Apparel Merchandising, Design & Textiles department. It is a major with two options: Merchandising and Design. Having a mathematical and business-oriented kind of mind, I chose to enter the Merchandising option and have remained in the program all four years. This major has exposed me to various types of classes in which I have learned all aspects of the fashion and retail industry and have participated in numerous hands-on projects that will prepare me for a career in this industry. Some of my relevant coursework includes (but is not limited to):
Visual Merchandising
Product Development
The Study of Consumer Behavior
Strategies in Merchandising and Buying
Fashion Forecasting
Illustration
Textile Fundamentals
History of Fashion Design
Multicultural Perspective on Body and Dress
AMDT’s program is designed to teach:
- Knowledge of textile and apparel industry issues and practices. Students are introduced to the history of the textile and apparel complex, the role of the complex in the national and international economy, and problems facing the industry.
- Understanding of the societal, psychological, and cultural factors that influence consumer response to apparel and textile products.
- Applied Skills. Students are provided opportunities to learn and practice methods and skills required for developing consumer products, merchandising of those products, and analysis of uses and responses to textile and apparel products by consumers.
- Analytical, Evaluative and Communication Skills. Students develop skills necessary to succeed in today’s work environment including critical thinking and problem solving skills; ability to work within a team framework; advanced verbal, written and visual communication skills; and leadership skills.
See an example of a WSU AMDT graduate and her success in the industry:
