Program Overview

Introduction to the Accelerated Master's Program in Design and Merchandising

The Accelerated Master's Program in Design and Merchandising is designed for undergraduate students who wish to continue their studies and earn a Master of Science degree in design and merchandising. This program allows students to take graduate-level courses as undergraduates, applying credits toward both their undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Program Overview

The Accelerated Master's Program partners the Bachelor of Science degrees in Apparel and Merchandising and Interior Architecture and Design with the Master of Science in Design and Merchandising. Students can specialize in either Apparel and Merchandising or Interior Design.

Eligibility and Application

To be eligible for the program, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. They are encouraged to apply for conditional admission to the M.S. in Design and Merchandising in the fall of their junior year, with an application deadline of October 15. The application process involves finding a faculty nominator, completing an online application, and submitting a statement of purpose, resume, unofficial transcript, and writing sample.

Program Structure

Once admitted, students work with their advisors and the DM Graduate Coordinator to incorporate up to 9 credits of graduate coursework into their undergraduate programs of study. Students must complete the Graduate School application and pay the application fee during their final year as undergraduates.

Important Considerations

• Deferral of enrollment into the master's program is not permitted; students must enter the M.S. in Design and Merchandising directly after completing their Bachelor of Science degree.
• There may be implications for federal student aid, and students should contact the Office of Financial Aid for details.
• Students must complete the Graduate School application and pay the application fee during their final year as undergraduates.

Research Areas

The M.S. in Design and Merchandising program offers research opportunities in various areas, including:

• Apparel and Merchandising:
  • Apparel design and production
  • Consumer behavior
  • Historic fashion and textiles
  • Merchandising
  • Product development
  • Social-psychological and cultural aspects of dress
  • Textile science
• Interior Design:
  • Design research
  • Person-environment relationships
  • Evidence-based design scholarship
  • Interior architecture environments to support user health and wellness
  • Environmental sustainability

Benefits of the Program

The Accelerated Master's Program in Design and Merchandising allows students to deepen their disciplinary understanding, gain research skills, and prepare for specialized practice in industry, continuation into Ph.D. programs, and/or teaching positions in higher education. By streamlining their efforts, students can significantly reduce the time spent in graduate school while building research skills and career preparation.