Merchandise Product Development

Development of technical sketches utilizing Adobe Illustrator. Hands-on experience in drawing of flat technical sketch and creating accurate garment detail. Prerequisite: DESN 1550

Development of creative design ideas utilizing a multimedia computer as a tool. Hands-on experience in digitally manipulating fabric prints and scanned artwork. Prerequisite: DESN 2530

In this process-oriented course, students combine deep, disciplined research with careful writing and revision to produce a thoughtful, creative, and personally meaningful research essay. They learn to formulate focused research questions, identify and investigate credible sources, and synthesize expert opinion with their own insight in support of a clearly defined, complex thesis. The emphasis is on curiosity, exploration, and discovery. As part of the process, students also gain confidence and competency in two primary areas of written expression: organization and mechanics.

An exploration of major designers who have had a sustained impact, in both couture and ready-to-wear, on today’s fashion. Students analyze how key figures in fashion design have influenced the styles and trends in line development of each decade since 1850, with emphasis on the last 30 years.

An introductory study of the principles and elements of color and design theory. Students critique aspects of a visual representation by analyzing the components of design and the use of color by the artist.

A practical analysis of the basic components of textiles and their relationship to performance. Students examine the characteristics of fibers, yarns, methods of fabric construction, such as weaving and knitting, and survey dyes, prints, and finishes. Emphasis is placed on performance and the determination of fabric suitability in the apparel design industry.

An application course focusing on mathematical concepts used in everyday life. Students integrate computation and analysis with authentic learning in graph analysis, Venn diagrams, analytical geometry, statistical measures of central tendency and variation, and financial mathematics. Prerequisites: To register for GNST 1450, you must successfully pass the math placement test or pass GNST 450.

A course in oral communication designed to give students poise, speaking confidence, and the ability to develop and produce a focused, well-organized speech that holds the audience’s attention through effective delivery methods. Presentational skills and audience-centered communication are emphasized.

Designed to foster independent thinking, this course strengthens students’ capacity to reason clearly, critically, and creatively, including the ability (1) to analyze the arguments of others, (2) to synthesize effective arguments of their own, and (3) to solve problems skillfully. Students also gain experience in reading closely and conducting purposeful, imaginative research—skills essential to the examination of demanding social, moral, political, and personal issues. Prerequisite: GNST 1040

A survey of American history from 1930-2000. Emphasis is on the political and economic features, both domestic and foreign, that contributed to the emergence of the welfare state and the nation’s rise to global leadership after World War II. The course provides an understanding of the Great Depression, the Second World War, the Cold War, America’s eventual emergence as the world’s only superpower, and the interrelation of all these factors.

To become more self-reliant and enterprising in the job search, students investigate career opportunities and the career path, personal traits, job responsibilities, and qualifications necessary to be competitive and promotable. Students build research tools that enable them to develop a plan of action, conduct informational interviews, practice interviewing skills, and produce a digitized professional resume, biographical statement, and cover letter for immediate submission to prospective employers.

An examination of the four parts of the marketing mix (product, price, promotion, and distribution). Students learn how micro- and macro- environments influence lifestyles and buying behavior. Students, using teamwork, apply their knowledge in analyzing case studies relevant to the fashion industry.

This class introduces students to the basics of draping and flat patternmaking, sewing, and garment construction. Includes a three (3) hour lab.

This continuation of Apparel Process I covers contemporary manufacturing, finishing processes, and emerging trends in apparel production. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: MFTG 1400

Marketing & Brand Development introduces and highlights the basic marketing principles which provide the framework for understanding the importance, value, and impact of marketing and brand management.

An introductory course that highlights the processes involved in the preproduction phase of apparel product development: planning, forecasting, fabrication, developing silhouettes and specifications, pricing and sourcing. Students examine the best practices of the most successful brands in the fashion business to understand how companies must position themselves to be successful in this field. Career paths and job opportunities are defined and explored. Prerequisites: MPDV 1750, MPDV 2200, MPDV 2780

In this course, students combine systematic research with personal insight to produce individual trend reports that support and shape their own design objectives. As components of their research, they assess the influence of visual arts, music, and popular culture on runway, retail, and street fashion, with particular attention to the decisive impact of social media communities and fashion blogs on the art and science of current trend forecasting. Prerequisite: MMKT 1550

A flat sketching course for line development, line sheets, and specification sheets. Students learn basic drawing skills for garment illustration and the correct terminology used for identifying design details on garments.

Students apply skills previously learned in Computer Aided Fashion Design I to digital file development using Adobe Photoshop software. Course projects focus on the digital manipulation of photo imagery and the development of fabric prints and graphics with emphasis on the elements and principles of design. Prerequisites: MPDV 1800, DESN 2530

An introduction to the creative process involved in developing fashion apparel for both retail and manufacturing companies. Students learn how to conduct trend research and translate their ideas into products for a specific market and category of merchandise. Prerequisite: MPDV 1800

A study of the process of garment prototype development and approval prior to production. Students learn how to create a technical packet of specifications and fit requirements for a variety of clothing styles utilizing the Gerber Technology web-based PDM system. Initial costs of all materials incurred in the production process are identified and estimated. Prerequisites: DESN 2530, MFTG 1400, MPDV 1800

An in-depth look at the financial planning process used by apparel buyers and planners. Students develop a seasonal merchandise plan and create a unit plan both at cost and retail. Students learn methods of business analysis and the purchasing process. Prerequisite: MRCH 1700

A practical study of garment fit and the fit approval process, from sketch to finished garment, for the apparel industry. Students learn to recognize, establish, correct, and control the appropriate fit for a variety of garments and body types. Prerequisite: MFTG 1400

A continuation of the Trend and Design Application (MPDV 2300) course. Students create their own line of exclusive products for an existing business. Emphasis is placed upon analyzing past selling results and incorporating those findings into a portion of the new line. Students learn how to make effective presentations of their seasonal lines while defending their design decisions. Prerequisites: DESN 2530, MPDV 2300

Students apply previously learned skills in garment specifications and costing to complete the production cycle.  Emphasis is placed on how to source all components of a garment, locate a maker for the garment, negotiate price for a garment, and develop a merchandising and production calendar. Students visit and evaluate a production facility. Prerequisite: MPDV 2400

In this course, students produce a sample of one of their original designs. Emphasis is on creating a prototype by developing garment specifications, applying advanced draping and pattern drafting techniques, and assessing the fit. Prerequisites: MFTG 1400, MFTG1700, MPDV2400

A continuation of the Preproduction for Apparel course, students expand their understanding of garment specifications and construction. Emphasis is placed upon analyzing the choices made for materials and garment construction, and how these choices affect the price of a garment. Students use the Gerber Technology web-based PDM system to create technical packs and cost sheets. Prerequisite: MPDV 2400

Students research and illustrate original designs for two brands and two distinct market segments of their choice to expand the content of their portfolio. Consideration is given to the use of technology as a means to expose and promote the students' skill level to the global job market. Personal branding of the students' portfolio is encouraged along with effective presentation techniques and formatting. Prerequisites: DESN 2830, MPDV 2700, MPDV 2880

An advanced computer skills course that builds upon Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop skills acquired in DESN 2530 and DESN 2830. Students integrate computer-aided design tools and applications to develop industry-standard visual and digital presentations that showcase all elements of fashion design and production. Emphasis is placed on both the technical and aesthetic mastery of computer applications that are specific to the ever changing needs of the fashion industry. Prerequisites: DESN 2530, DESN 2830

Through on-the-job training, students gain valuable insight as they apply theory and skills learned in the classroom to actual work situations and explore career options. An internship blends theory and practice, combining academic training with employment in fields related to their course of study.

An introduction to the concepts behind professional trend forecasting. Students learn to understand the fundamentals of the trend forecasting research process through the analysis of current events, social and cultural influences, and industry observation. Emphasis is placed on interpreting research into viable macro trends. Prerequisite: MMKT 2880

This course explores store and non-store retailing formats, structure, purpose, as well as the challenges and integration of retail channels. Students gain an understanding of the retail industry and are exposed to today’s global environment. They are introduced to franchising, licensing, branding, and pertinent retail terminology. Career paths and opportunities in the fashion industry are further defined and explored.

A mathematical applications course using percentages, mark-ups, and profit formulas in retail situations. Students also learn pricing principles, tracking inventory, and writing purchase orders. Prerequisite: GNST 1450

This course demonstrates knowledge of textiles and the application of these skills in the product development process. Emphasis is placed on the compatibility of fabrics to meet performance criteria and market acceptance. Students identify fabrics, weights, construction, and finish. Prerequisite: GNST 1440

Students conclude their studies in textile science with a course concentrating on the practical application of textiles. Emphasis is placed on a product development simulation, which includes sourcing, inspection, research, and testing of textiles. Students evaluate suppliers and their role in the marketplace. Quality control and color management are assessed so that the best processes for an individual product may be selected. Dye labs include evaluation of yarn-dips, lab-dips, strike-offs, and fabric defects. Knits and the high performance market are also further examined. Prerequisites: GNST 1440, GNST 2260 or TSCI 1800