Program Overview

Master of Science in Design and Merchandising, Plan A, Apparel and Merchandising Specialization

The M.S. in Design and Merchandising, Plan A, Apparel and Merchandising Specialization offers the opportunity for students to critically explore how apparel products are designed and developed, distributed, and merchandised as well as the ways in which consumers interact with and use those products in various historical and socio-cultural contexts. Emphasis is placed upon fostering cultural/global awareness and a commitment to social responsibility. The Plan A emphasizes the development of content knowledge and research skills through the completion of an original research study, preparing graduates well for doctoral-level work or for industry positions requiring critical thinking, analytical abilities, and/or depth of knowledge in the field.

Areas of Graduate Study and Research

• Apparel Design and Production
• Consumer Behavior
• Historic Textiles and Dress
• Merchandising
• Product Development
• Social-Psychological and Cultural Aspects of Dress and Appearance
• Textile Science

Program Requirements

The program requires a minimum of 30 credits to complete. The course list includes:

• Department Core:
  • DM 501: Research and Theory-Design and Merchandising (3 credits)
  • DM 551: Research Methods (3 credits)
  • Specialized research/data analysis methods (3 credits)
• Breadth:
  • Out-of-department Course (3 credits)
• Specialization Courses:
  • Select a minimum of 12 credits from 500-level courses with approval of advisor
• Thesis:
  • DM 699: Thesis (6 credits)

Procedures for the Master's Degree

1. Application for admission
2. Diagnostic examination when required
3. Appointment of advisor
4. Selection of graduate committee
5. Filing of program of study
6. Preliminary examination (Ph.D. and PD)
7. Report of preliminary examination
8. Changes in committee
9. Application for Graduation
10. Submit thesis or dissertation to committee
11. Final examination
12. Report of final examination
13. Submit a signed Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form and Survey of Earned Doctorates (Ph.D. only)
14. Submit the thesis/dissertation electronically
15. Graduation