Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

What is Apparel and Textiles Management?

Apparel and textiles is a field of study in business focused on the process associated with creating, designing, managing, and producing clothing and accessories.  An apparel and textiles management degree is earned by a person possessing the capacity and willingness to manage, develop, and organize resources of a business to create clothing for a defined demographic or consumer.

According to the BLS, apparel and textiles management is a vital role in the growth of the United States economy.  The direct and indirect jobs created as a result of operational efficiencies and design enhancements in textiles has been very impactful across our entire economy.  From job creation to increasing sales for designers, the textile and apparel industry has been substantial.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$117,720

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

68.52%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

71,750

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Apparel and Textiles Management Degree

Fashion Institute of Design & Marketing's top ranked Apparel Industry Management degree program prepares students for eventual ownership and/or management of a global fashion manufacturing company. Their classroom is highly equipped with apparel industry technology. Students from the program design a clothing collection that reflects great knowledge of trends, supply chain realities, and the current global marketplace. The program combines apparel design classes with real-world business training that is connected by technology. Their curriculum stresses the importance of leadership, teamwork, creativity, and effective communication in decision-making from the visionary development of the initial idea to the execution of the finished product.

Acceptance Rate

36.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Auburn University offers a robust Apparel Merchandising, Design, and Production Management major provide a well-rounded knowledge base to foster success in merchandising and design-related careers. The faculty guides their students for a variety of fashion-related careers in the global supply chain. The program has an integrated core of apparel-related courses combined with a focus on merchandising or design and production management. Students will be equipped to work effectively as team members in a variety of fashion-related settings. The program offers two undergraduate options: the Apparel Merchandising (APME) and Apparel Design and Production Management (APDP) as well as Master's and Ph.D. level opportunities.

Acceptance Rate

80.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Louisiana Tech University's Fashion Merchandising and Retail Studies (FMRS) Program prepares students for an exciting career in the fashion industry. It is designed to aid students develop and enhance a significant knowledge base. Helping them grow artistic and leadership skills to be productive in the manufacturing and retail areas of the fashion industry. It is also accredited through the American Association of Family and Consumer Science (AAFCS).

Acceptance Rate

64.09

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

The University of Nebraska Lincoln's Textiles Merchandising, and Fashion Design Communications combine a background in textiles and fashion with advertising or another area of media communications. The program helps students prepare for a rewarding career in the fast-paced, deadline-driven environment of textiles and fashion communications. They have the great opportunity to work closely with Textiles, Merchandising, and Fashion Design Faculty and faculty in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications. Employment in the field requires a global perspective and a solid understanding of the industry and this program will highly equip students to navigate the field successfully.

Acceptance Rate

78.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Colorado State University's degree in Apparel and Merchandising program provides students the essential knowledge and skills needed to start careers in the industry.  The program offers multifaceted training in apparel and textile design, product development and sourcing, and consumer goods retail promotion and distribution. They prepare students to be a great steward of cultural diversity and social responsibility. The program deeply focuses on an understanding of the cultural and historical components of apparel and textile design. Challenging them to master their understanding of the economic, social, and scientific aspects shaping the textile and apparel industry.

Acceptance Rate

81.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Carson-Newman College has a highly regarded Fashion Merchandising and Design are dedicated to providing a high-quality academic curriculum. Providing a unique approach that enables students to successfully function in the competitive fashion marketplace. Students study a core of fashion-related courses. Through its various activities and unique learning tools, students develop critical thinking skills while also gaining valuable experiences that will benefit them as they transition from students to successful professionals.

Acceptance Rate

69.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Iowa State University's Apparel, Merchandising, and Design program is designed to help students build a comprehensive base of knowledge about the textiles and apparel industry. Their students, faculty, and staff are on the cutting edge of education in the industry. The program provides great opportunities to model in, design for, and produce an annual show. Offering high-tech equipment to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field. Students will further define their career path by choosing from either the merchandising, design, or product development options.

Acceptance Rate

92.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Northwest Missouri State University (NMSU) is located in Maryville Missouri and was founded in 1905 as a teachers college.  The school has evolved into a wellspring of academic talent with a deep and wide academic reputation.  From online business degrees to nursing programs, Northwest Missouri State University continues to impress students and academic professionals nationwide.   Learn more about the competitive programs at NMSU by visiting their website or requesting information from the admissions team today. 

Acceptance Rate

73.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

Wayne State University's Fashion Design and Merchandising major offer qualified students a professional concentration in the fields of Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising. The program's curriculum enables student development in conceptual and technical aspects of clothing design from material testing and ideation to finished garment. The institution's studios and labs are well-equipped to provide students space and tools needed to explore materials and forms that fulfill their design goals. The program promotes understanding and practical skills related to the buying and selling of fashion products and their development.

Acceptance Rate

73.14

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Central Washington University's degree in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising provide knowledge in the business aspects of the fashion industry. Small class sizes with rigorous learning experiences supplemented with industry field trips and internships assure students are industry-ready. Students can partially define their individual curriculum through elective courses. Offering an opportunity to study abroad to widen their knowledge in the field. The courses are deeply focused on creativity and innovation within the fashion industry context.  Learn more about this exciting degree program from CWU along with what it takes to be a Wildcat. 

Acceptance Rate

84.92

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

North Dakota State University offers a major in Apparel, Retail Merchandising, and Apparel Studies provide students to find opportunities in design, product development, marketing, sales, product quality assurance, consulting, training, business ownership, and research. The program offers students a theoretically-based education with practical application. Graduates from the course develop and deliver products and services to the global marketplace. Creating innovative and sensitive solutions to meet consumer and societal needs.

Acceptance Rate

93.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Savannah College of Art and Design offers qualifying students an exciting Fashion degree pathway.  The program is curated to help students obtain access to curricula to master new markets, technologies, and trends as they transform into a leader in the international business of style. They are poised to shape the fashion landscape from influential fashion insiders and expert faculty. Providing all-access passes to prime design resources and star-studded signature events. Graduates are prepared to join the world's most fashionable brands or start their own companies.

Acceptance Rate

95.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Indiana Institute of Technology's Textiles, Apparel, and Merchandising provides students with dynamic academic options that build the necessary foundation for a wide variety of careers in the creation and distribution of textile and apparel products. The program is grounded in the most recent apparel industry analysis research. Students are required to participate in internship opportunities. They are encouraged to attend industry conferences, engage in various types of field excursions, and share in networking and career development events with both peers and industry professionals.

Acceptance Rate

59.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

South Dakota State University has a highly regarded Fashion Studies & Retail Merchandising degree program.  This major is the quintessential program for students who are passionate to spend their career in one of many roles in the dynamic, ever-changing fashion industry. Students from the program acquire a broad knowledge of people and their behavior. They have the chance to spend one-year studying fashion in New York. Providing a deeper understanding of the world at large and technical knowledge and skills to select fabrics and plan and produce fashion goods.  

Acceptance Rate

90.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Brigham Young University-Idaho's Apparel Entrepreneurship major prepares students to work in the fashion industry or to develop their apparel-based small entrepreneur business. Preparing them for work in the Apparel industry by focusing on apparel design. Upon completing the program students can demonstrate proficiency in advanced apparel techniques using the principles and elements of design. Gain confidence in their workplace and excel in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

95.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

The University of the Incarnate Word's Bachelor of Science in Fashion Management prepares students for careers in the design and business sides of the fashion industry. The program's emphasis on technology, practical technique, business insight, artistry, and scholarship produces well-rounded graduates with extensive insights into fashion. Offering two concentration options the Merchandising for Apparel Production and Design. Through its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on skill development, students gain a unique understanding of fashion's historical, cultural, commercial, environmental, and international significance.

Acceptance Rate

93.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of Central Oklahoma offers a Fashion Marketing program for qualifying students.  It offers a four-year degree program leading to a Bachelor of Science-Fashion Marketing degree. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum while concentrating on apparel, advertising, promotion, and retailing. The students examine, strengthen, and apply the entrepreneurial skills necessary to start his/her own business and/or work in an established business. Demonstrating a deeper understanding of how culture influences fashion.

Acceptance Rate

84.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Irvine Valley College's Business Entrepreneurship program is the academic concentration designed for students who wish to enter the workforce more quickly to achieve a broad array of professional experiences.  Students can choose from Certificates of Achievement (COA) in Business Management, Manufacturing Assistant, Retail Management, and Supervision. The program offers a variety of degree and certificate options. Providing students the practical skills they need to succeed in the world of commerce. Developing an entrepreneurial mindset is a valuable skill to an employer and they provide hands-on experiential learning.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

31:1

Academy of Art University offers students a major and minor in Fashion Merchandising & Management program to help students develop in-depth knowledge and skills required for today's global fashion business operations in the industry. Providing building skills on how to gather, analyze, and use market research. Students have the opportunity to plan, manage, and sell fashion products to operate fashion businesses in various formats. The program offers great exposure to its students to the business side of managing fashion merchandise with a focus on planning, analysis, and selling.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Saddleback College's Advanced Fashion Design and Apparel Manufacturing certificate concentration prepares students to enter the apparel manufacturing field. Exploring the fashion industry, studying the many career options available beyond design. Upon completing the program, graduates will not only be able to design clothing but will be able to participate in many of the manufacturing processes. They will be able to produce a professional portfolio showcasing their advanced design skills.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

Sierra College's Fashion degree program prepares students for careers in industrial and small business settings and advanced studies. Providing training on how to design, produce, manage, and market their products. Careers in Fashion Design, Style, and Sales offer a great start to the student's careers as a fashion designer, personal stylist, or makeup artist. They have the opportunity to transform individuals to become a buyer, retail merchandiser, fashion illustrator, or textile designer. Learn more about the academic and professional opportunities that you may have access to via Sierra College today.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

24:1

Orange Coast College offers a Fashion Merchandising degree program conferred as an Associate in Science.  The degree prepares students for careers in the fashion industry and related businesses. Students are highly encouraged to complete the Associate degree. The program equips students for entry-level employment as professional and competent fashion merchandisers. After finishing the program, graduates have the opportunity to be employed in retail management, retail buying, special events and promotions, visual merchandising, styling, fashion marketing, and public relations.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

29:1

Cuesta College is a public community college located in San Luis Obispo, California.  The school was founded back in 1916 as a stand-alone division of SLO High School.  Cuesta is the only college in the district to be accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.  CC offers students dozens of quality academic programs and has landed on our list of best colleges this year in multiple categories.  The small business major at Cuesta College provides the breadth and depth of academic support to help burgeoning business-minded students access to various career paths.  The associate degrees and certificate programs offered in small business management help propel students to career opportunities when pared with grit, determination, and opportunity.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

29:1

Santa Rosa Junior College offers students a Fashion Design Assistant major.  This academic program is designed for students passionate about a career in the field of fashion. Students learn about textiles and their manufacture, elements, and principles of design. They will develop patterns for original designs or from designer working sketches, execute those designs in fabric, and market the finished product. The program will prepare students for a variety of occupations such as Production Manager's Assistant, Textile Design Assistant, and Manufacturer's Merchandiser. Upon completing the program, one of the skills they will acquire is to design garments using various creative patterns.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Mt San Antonio College has a highly touted Fashion Merchandising is designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the apparel industry. The program offers students courses specializing in apparel retailing, advertising, textiles, and visual communications. Emphasizing the business side of fashion, wholesale merchandise planning, and apparel branding targeting specific markets. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to develop marketing strategies to create a successful career.  Entry-level employment opportunities are available after graduation.  

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

24:1

What Does a Textile Manager Do?

In a traditional sense, Apparel and Textiles Managers are charged with controlling a public or private company and its resources in a profitable manner to take advantage of a business opportunity, satisfy customer demand, or set of market inefficiencies. The curriculum for an Apparel and Textiles Management degree program may include apparel design, manufacturing, operations management, apparel marketing, e-commerce, merchandising, global sourcing, consumer demand, supply chain management, global trade, and cultural demand.

Top Degrees in Apparel & Textile Management

Prospective students considering a future in apparel management and textile management have many options to consider.  From certificate programs to graduate degrees in the field of study, students will need to assess programs in relation to their individual career goals.  In fact, the number of choices effectively doubles with the addition of online degrees.

Online degrees in apparel and textile management offer unique benefits not found in a traditional classroom setting.  Differences include schedule flexibility, accessibility, and potential cost savings.  Regardless of the learning modality chosen, you will need to take the time to understand the options available and financial aid resources.

Below you will find a summary of each program type to help you make a great decision for your future.  Top rated programs worthy of consideration include Washington State University found at wsu edu in apparel merchandising design via a defined roadmap qr cat.  You may find a stretch English roadmap, transfer roadmap bachelor, or English roadmap minor depending on your academic focus.

Certificate Programs in Apparel & Textile Management

Certificate programs in apparel and textile management can be found at many accredited colleges and universities found on this resource page.  It is important to understand that there are two different types of certificate programs to choose from for qualifying students.  Certificate programs come in two variations: undergraduate and graduate.

An undergraduate certificate program is designed to provide the basics of apparel management.  Undergraduate programs focus on transferring knowledge to student’s core skills and key concepts to navigate the industry.  Students earning an undergraduate certificate can expect to begin their careers in an entry-level position.

A graduate certificate program is an advanced program containing upper-level courses.  Graduate programs are designed for knowledgeable students and working professionals to upskill, advance their career, and/or prepare for a pending career transition.

Associate Degree in Apparel & Textile Management

Online associate degrees in apparel and textile management can be conferred as an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) or Associate of Arts (AA).  The degree type will be determined by the school’s program emphasis.  Both the AA and AFA degree program are 2-year programs for full-time students.  In either case, the associate’s degree will provide students with general educations classes such as math, history, sociology, and creative writing. The ultimate goal of general education courses offered by universities is to help students think differently about the world.

Core classes in a textile and apparel associate degree include a diverse set of potential classes.  Examples of classes in the core of this degree program include: procurement, logistics, sales management, consumer behavior, event promotion, supply chain management, advertising, merchandise management, economics, business management, financial management, brand marketing, visual merchandising, fashion design, apparel production, and retail operations.

Bachelor Degrees in Apparel & Textile Management

An on-site or online bachelor degree in textile and apparel management is a 4-year program for full-time students.  Bachelor degrees in the field of study can be conferred as Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) via an English roadmap bachelor path.

Bachelor’s degrees will give students the opportunity to take additional liberal arts classes compared to an associate’s degree.  Further, students in a BFA or BA program will take substantive core classes each semester.  The additional course work will help students add vital skills to their toolbox and enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Core curriculum in the bachelor’s degree track will vary by university but will cover similar material school to school.  Curriculum you will find in a school’s course catalog will typically include: business management, theory of design, manufacturing, leadership, economics, retail management, marketing, textiles fundamentals, forecasting, retailing basics, sales promotion, design development, procurement, and contemporary design.   At the completion of the program, students will have gained proficiency in a variety of areas of academic areas including merchandising, logistics, marketing, sales, and technology.

Master Degrees in Apparel & Textile Management

Online master’s degrees in apparel and textile management can be conferred as either a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA).  Either track will provide students with a level of expertise and mastery in the return for invested semester studies.  Qualifying students in a graduate program will generally be motivated to earn a MA or MFA to continue their career trajectory and advance in the field.  Some students may elect to transfer roadmap master or English roadmap master as directed by academic counselors.

At the completion of the program, students will typically take a capstone course and complete a thesis project to help advance the knowledge base in the field.  With nearly 75,000 apparel and textile managers employed in the United States, the need to upskill and grow is evident in every sector of employment.

 Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Apparel and Textiles Management

Employment Roadmap in Apparel Management

Undergraduate students earning an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in textile management will have ample jobs tracks to consider. Specializations in apparel management and textile operations can include various career paths. A sampling of employment choices include, but not limited to, the following vocations:

  • Textile Manager
  • Division Leader
  • Apparel Director
  • Project Specialist
  • Human Resource Manager
  • Sales Manager
  • High School Teacher
  • Apparel Designers
  • Fashion Illustrator
  • Fashion Stylist
  • Apparel Merchandiser
  • market research Manager
  • Product Developer
  • Patternmaker
  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Retail Manager
  • Technical Designer
  • Visual Merchandiser
  • Corporate Trainer

Textile Managers Salary & Job Growth

An overview of the forecasted job growth in textile and apparel are stable to growing per the BLS. Purchasing managers, textile managers, and administrative manager are all looking stable for the coming reporting period. Mean annual income for apparel purchasing managers is currently $111,590 with the top ten percent earning $177,560 and the bottom 10% averaging $63,380 a year. Given the vast difference in pay, expect employment responsibilities, work experience, city of residence, and organization to play a large part in determining overall compensation.

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com