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Choose a Business Degree for a New Future |  |
Fashionistas: Earn a Fashion Merchandising Degree
February 27, 2007
by Francine L. Huff
Business Programs Columnist
Are you the fashion trendsetter in your clique? If so, then earning a degree in fashion merchandising school may be a great way to transform your sense of style into an exciting career.
Learning the Ins and Outs of Fashion Merchandising
Fashion merchandising careers involve manufacturing, buying, promoting, and selling clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Many employers are looking for fashion merchandising school graduates who've studied textiles, are creative thinkers, are knowledgeable about the history of fashion, and are tuned in to the latest fashion trends. Depending on the type of company you work for, expect to spend one to five years learning the ins and outs of your employer's business.
Fashion School: A Hands-on Experience
You can earn your fashion merchandising degree online or on campus. Either way, most fashion merchandising schools' courses include a lot of project work and field trips. Depending upon where you attend fashion merchandising school, you may be required to attend fashion shows or visit clothing companies. If you already have a business, marketing, or design background, studying fashion merchandising can help you launch a career change.
Managers, Buyers, and Agents, Oh My!
Purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents buy goods and services to resell or use in their own organization. Purchasing managers had median annual earnings in 2004 of $72,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Purchasing agents (excluding wholesale, retail and farm products) had median annual earnings of $47,680 in 2004.
Evaluate Fashion Merchandising Schools
When weighing fashion merchandising schools, ask if the faculty has worked in the industry. You'll also want to make sure the fashion merchandising program has a good career resources center so that you'll have access to job and internship opportunities.
Working Behind the Scenes
Use your sense of style to get a foot in the door of the exciting world of fashion merchandising. Not all fashion gurus are supermodels; there are many more behind-the-scenes opportunities available for people who have a strong fashion sense, marketing skills, and business acumen.
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About the Author
Francine L. Huff is a freelance journalist and the author of The 25-Day Money Makeover for Women. She has appeared on a variety of TV and radio shows.
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