The purpose of graduate education is to prepare students, through specialized and intensive study, for careers in the professions. The Department of Design, Housing and Merchandising, a leader in both apparel and interior design education, is dedicated to a philosophy that emphasizes the value of applied learning. The DHM department serves the larger community as a functional center of knowledge and expertise within the fields of apparel design and production, merchandising, and interior design. The DHM faculty seek to introduce committed new scholars to this professional environment, which provides opportunities for the discovery, integration, application and dissemination of new knowledge.
Graduate work requires a high degree of student initiative and independence.
In graduate classes, assignments usually are presented in broad terms, thereby permitting an opportunity to exercise self-direction in the specific focus of an assignment. Additionally, self-direction and motivation are necessary for successful completion of a dissertation. This emphasis upon personal initiative and responsibility enables students to acquire the maturity and working style necessary for professional success, as well as growth in knowledge and ability. While an adviser will monitor a student's progress and offer assistance, progress through the graduate program is each student's own responsibility. The doctoral plan of study requires completion of a minimum of 60 graduate credits beyond the mater's degree, which includes 15 credits of dissertation research.