Curriculum
The following are the required courses for this major. Students who attend Orientation and meet with the Education Department can obtain personalized academic counseling to complete the program. Transfer credits, changes in curriculum, and other factors may affect the academic plan for individual students. The FIDM Education Department can provide additional information.
Prerequisite:
A prior Associates degree or 45-60 semester units (67-90 quarter units) of transferable academic coursework. Students entering the program with fewer than 60 semester units (90 quarter units) will have additional coursework to complete.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A)
Creative Industry Studies, Merchandise Product Development Core
BUMT 3100
Ethics in Business+
UNITS: 3
This course addresses the importance of ethical issues and the financial impact on business performance and ownership. The costs and consequences of failing to act ethically are explored. Students learn strategies to solve real life dilemmas. Students explore the importance of ethics as a dimension of social responsibility and business ethics in the global economy.
BUMT 3230
Introduction To Business Management
UNITS: 3
This course presents an introduction to management concepts and strategies used by modern businesses, and is designed to familiarize students with the accepted standards, procedures, and techniques employed by senior, middle, and operational managers. It provides students with an understanding of the financial impact of management and how to plan to optimize performance and achieve organizational goals.
BUMT 3680
Global Marketing Communications
UNITS: 3
This course provides a foundation of knowledge necessary to create strategic communications plans that will support a product or service in todays competitive marketplace. Students participate in a learning forum environment whereby original ideas and assignments are presented, discussed, and critiqued by the class. This course provides students with a framework of how to enter foreign markets.
Prerequisite: BUMT 4600
BUMT 3820
Business Law+
UNITS: 3
Students develop an understanding of corporate formation and procedures, limited liability companies and special business forms. This course examines social, ethical, and political implications of law and its application to business transactions as well as intellectual property law.
BUMT 4600
Marketing Management+
UNITS: 3
This course focuses on the management of the marketing function to achieve a competitive advantage and establish brand equity. Students explore creative strategies for entrepreneurs to develop consumer awareness. Prerequisite: BUMT 3600 or BUMT 3230
GNST 2530
Principles of Kinesiology+
UNITS: 3
The emphasis of this course is to scientifically examine the musculoskeletal and physiological systems of the body in motion and at rest. The principles of biochemical, pulmonary, and circulatory systems related to movement and exercise and the contemporary issues of neuromuscular health are investigated.
GNST 2530L
Principles of Kinesiology Lab+
UNITS: 1
This lab includes field excursions, observation journals, and interviews with practitioners in the field of kinesiology, including physical therapists, sports medicine physicians, and professional trainers.
GNST 3150
Research on Topics of Design History+
UNITS: 3
An in-depth exploration into the major design movements of the 20th and 21st centuries focusing on the importance of research and writing on topics of the applied arts. Emphasis is placed on contextualizing design movements and the designers within their historical framework and the changes in society they have inspired. Conversations consider the effects of form and function, technology, identity, corporate branding, globalization, and visual communication on the development of design and how it has shaped our environment.
GNST 3200
Consumer Social Behavior
UNITS: 3
Students examine the process of creating consumer demand through case studies and focus groups.
GNST 3400
Social Psychology+
UNITS: 3
A course that examines social psychology and how the behaviors, thoughts, and emotions of individuals are created and modified by the social and cultural conditions in which they live. Issues of social influence, cooperation and conflict, conformity, perception, change, and leadership are explored.
GNST 3500
Professional Presentation+
UNITS: 3
A course in effective organizational communication, with emphasis on advanced oral communication skills, including interviewing. Students examine the dynamics of individual and group communication as preparation for full-scaled, business-specific informative and persuasive speeches, in which they use computer technology, visual aids, and statistical data to enhance the impact and clarity of their presentations.
GNST 3600
Future Trends in Society
UNITS: 3
Students explore the demographic trends, shifts in technology, and varied communication avenues of the current socioeconomic landscape as a means of anticipating the cultural expectations, values, and practices that will give rise to new products, methods of marketing/communication, and business trends. Prerequisite: GNST 3400
GNST 3800
Icons of Culture: The Context of Meaning
UNITS: 3
Students explore universal design concepts underlying the applied arts, the decorative arts, and architecture/architectural form. Using the language of aesthetic analysis, they relate formal elements of color and structure, pattern and motif, and icon and symbol to the origins, development, and diffusion of a wide range of designed objects from many cultures and historical periods. In the process, they gain insight into the durability, adaptability, and resonance of concepts and images that have achieved iconic status in the world of design.
GNST 3900
Issues in Contemporary Society+
UNITS: 3
A General Studies capstone course addressing current issues in social diversity, globalization, business ethics, and civic responsibility. Students combine critical analysis, scientific inquiry, and technological skill to research and prepare a clear written and oral presentation on a challenging, advanced question of their own choosing.
MFTG 1400
Apparel Process I (6 hours)*
UNITS: 3
This class introduces students to the basics of draping and flat patternmaking, sewing, garment construction, and apparel production terminology. Includes a three (3) hour lab.
MFTG 1700
Apparel Process II (6 hours)*
UNITS: 3
This continuation of Apparel Process I covers contemporary construction including a denim jacket, knit hoodie and 5-pocket jean, finishing processes, and emerging trends in apparel production. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: MFTG 1400
MPDV 1800
Fundamentals of Sketching
UNITS: 3
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.
MPDV 1850
Digital Sketching & Rendering
UNITS: 3
Introduction to Adobe Illustrator and its use as a tool for drawing technical flat sketches with accurate proportions and garment details. Instruction in the use of Adobe Illustrator tools and workspace to create effectively organized and editable digital files. Prerequisite: TECH 1100
MPDV 2100
Fashion Merchandising & Assortment Planning
UNITS: 3
An in-depth study of the financial planning process for the apparel industry. Students are introduced to pricing principles, the purchasing process, methods of analysis, and calculating profitability. Utilizing Excel, a six month financial plan and unit plan are created by each student in a series of classroom exercises. Prerequisites: GNST 1450, MRCH 1950, TSCI 1440
MPDV 2150
Digital Presentation Applications
UNITS: 3
An advanced course, where students integrate the use of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to develop industry-standard digital presentations. Emphasis is placed on both technical and aesthetic mastery of computer applications that are specific to the evolving needs of the fashion industry. Prerequisite: MPDV 1850
MPDV 2250
Apparel Design
UNITS: 3
Introduction to the CLO 3-D fashion design software and its use as an effective tool in creating virtual, true-to-life garment visualizations. Emphasis is placed on building the skills necessary to design and present a capsule collection in the 3-D environment. Prerequisite: MPDV 1850
MPDV 2400
Preproduction for Apparel
UNITS: 3
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: MFTG 1400, MPDV 1800, MPDV 1850
MPDV 2700
Classification & Line Development
UNITS: 3
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: MPDV 1850, MPDV 2300
MPDV 2750
Production & Sourcing Strategies
UNITS: 3
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
MPDV 2780
Technical Design
UNITS: 3
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, MPDV 1850, MPDV2400
MPDV 2800
Advanced Preproduction
UNITS: 3
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 NGC cloud-based PLM system to create technical packs and cost sheets.
Prerequisite: MPDV 2400
MPDV 2820
Fashion Start-Up Strategies
UNITS: 3
This course challenges students to evaluate and apply emerging technologies, social media, crowdfunding, and supply chain logistics to create their own fashion start-up. Emphasis is placed on understanding consumer behavior in the digital era and meeting customer expectations while building a brand and new brand experience. Prerequisites: MPDV 2100, MPDV 2700
MPDV 2850
Brand Portfolio Development
UNITS: 3
Students research and illustrate original designs for one brand and 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: MPDV 2150, MPDV 2250, MPDV 2700
MRCH 2810
Sustainability & Social Responsibility
UNITS: 3
Introduces students to the concept, history, and science of sustainability and its relationship to the business of ethical fashion. Coursework topics focus on the development of eco-friendly materials, responsible manufacturing and distribution, and how companies are integrating social responsibility for the environment into their corporate philosophy and business practices. Prerequisites: COSM 2380, MMKT 2460, MPDV 2400, MRCH 2420, SMED 2750
TECH 1100
Introduction to Adobe
UNITS: 3
This course is an introduction to design techniques, naming conventions, and digital asset management within Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students gain basic knowledge of digital design components such as vector and raster graphics, tools, and key menu items, which they use to complete work in their major areas of study. These concepts support use of industry-standard computer aided design tools and facilitate communication between designers, clients, and manufacturers.
TSCI 1440
Textile Science
UNITS: 3
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.
TSCI 1800
Fabric Identification
UNITS: 3
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, and finish. Prerequisite: TSCI 1440
TSCI 2100
Textile Application & Color Management
UNITS: 3
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: TSCI 1800
Total Units of Credit: 91
* Three (3)-hour lab included in 6 hours
+ Available as an online (distance learning) course
++ Periodically offered as an online (distance learning) course
