Curriculum

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 todays 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.

This course explores financial and consumer math, the geometry of flat and 3-dimensional spaces, and the basics of statistical analysis. Integrating mathematical equations and concepts in the context of problem solving and discovery, students complete projects and assignments demonstrating the effective use of quantitative tools to support their conclusions.

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 audiences 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.

This course facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the tools and techniques necessary to effectively navigate the complexities of the job market. Students explore critical components of employment in order to prepare for their job search; the ultimate result is placement in their desired career. Students learn how to build a meaningful resume, navigate career sites, including FIDM Career Network and LinkedIn, effectively research desired industry and organizations, and perfect interviewing techniques and skills. This is a Pass/Fail class necessary for FIDM graduation. In addition to nine (9) hours of class workcomprised of three consecutive classes, three (3) hours eachstudents should be prepared for an additional three (3) hours of homework for each of the three weeks.

This course examines the subtle and overt ways in which society marginalizes and discriminates against groups of people including, but not limited to, racial, cultural and ethnic groups, religious groups, women, the elderly, persons with disabilities (including physical and mental challenges), gender fluidity and LGBTQIA+. Students will not only study the historical realities, institutions, and a legal system that have enabled discrimination to continue, they will delve into the roots of hatred, fear and bias, the very foundations of prejudice and discrimination, in order to become conscious of and active in their own contributions to a more just and inclusive society.

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 nations rise to global leadership after World War II. The course provides an understanding of the Great Depression, the Second World War, the Cold War, Americas eventual emergence as the worlds only superpower, and the interrelation of all these factors.

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.

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

This course 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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: MFTG 1400, MPDV 1800, MPDV 1850

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

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, MPDV 1850, 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 NGC cloud-based PLM system to create technical packs and cost sheets. Prerequisite: MPDV 2400

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

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

This course is designed to assist the student in developing a facility with electronic spreadsheets in support of effective business management. Students develop a working knowledge of computerized spreadsheet and chart functions as applied to business management concepts with related mathematical formulas and operational requirements. Prerequisite: GNST 1450

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

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.

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.

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

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