Design & Merchandising students complete an academic trajectory that integrates visual design, merchandising, and business insight for the fashion lifestyle industries. The multidisciplinary curriculum is delivered through immersive and experiential learning. Students conduct marketplace research, evaluate business opportunities, assess omni-channel strategies, and develop product assortments and inventory allocations using retail analytics, spreadsheets, creative cloud and product lifecycle management software tools. Graduates are technologically adept and globally aware with the proficiency to communicate, visualize, and implement product strategies from concept to consumer.

From their first year through graduation, students enhance their academic and professional development with visits to trade shows and career fairs, volunteering in industry, and experiencing fashion merchandising activities in Philadelphia, New York, and across the world. Our program's very active guest speaker program is an integral part of student learning and offers students an opportunity to network with industry leaders early in their college careers.

Design & Merchandising Degree Requirements

A Design & Merchandising degree requires a total of 181 credits, made up of D&M major courses, general education courses, career electives, and visual studies courses.

Design & Merchandising students complete major requirements focused on professional competencies, including the following courses:

• Introduction to the Fashion Industry
• Analysis of Products
• Textiles for Merchandising
• Retail Operations
• Planning & Buying
• Merchandising Operations & Management
• Visual Merchandising
• Product Development & Sourcing Strategies
• Merchandising Analytics

Design & Merchandising Plans Of Study

The following is a sample plan of study (additional sample plans can be found in the Drexel University Course Catalog):

Sample Plans of Study

Several factors influence the sequencing of those courses including: transfer credits, AP credits, academic year entering the program and programmatic changes. Students should refer to their individualized DegreeWorks account and consult with their Academic Advisor to ensure they meet all degree requirements in a timely manner.

Academic Advisors can be reached at the Westphal College Office of Academic Advising.