The undergraduate program is designed so that competencies needed for entry level positions have been met. In addition, a strong liberal education is emphasized within the two option areas. There is a continuing demand for graduates of the program from the major retailers of fashion goods, established apparel design firms. About 15 percent of those with a bachelor's degree elect to continue their studies at the graduate level in areas of specialization represented in the program. The program in apparel design leads to careers concentrating on the design and fabrication of men's, women's, and children's clothing.
Graduates often qualify as assistant designers and pattern makers.
Design centers such as New York, the Carolinas, Florida, Dallas, and Los Angeles offer employment opportunities to new and established designers. Graduates of the merchandising management option are often employed in such diverse areas as the marketing and promotion of apparel products in a wide variety of merchandising centers. Well known retail companies annually recruit and expect to hire graduates from the merchandising management program. There is continuing demand for clothing and textiles graduates from major retailers, established apparel manufacturers, and textile producers. Jobs are available especially if young professionals are willing to relocate where the opportunities exist.