Earn an Associate’s Degree in Fashion Design
Majors Overview April 2, 2014Students will be taught about trends, garment construction, design basics, and fashion history, with associate’s degree programs in Fashion Design. Those who graduate will be ready for continued study or entry-level careers in the industry of fashion.
A.A. Programs in Fashion Design
Students enrolled in associate’s degree programs in Fashion Design can expect to become adept at draping, patternmaking, constructing garments and sewing. Students are imparted the skills and experience necessary in creating clothing designs through new design technology and traditional methods. They may also gain expertise in designing and creating shoes and accessories. Many colleges, private schools and technical institutes offer fashion design programs in various formats such as an Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.) and Associate of Arts (A.A.).
Education Requirements
Admission criteria in fashion design associate’s degree programs typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Some programs may also require candidates to submit a portfolio to showcase their skills and experience related to construction, design and sewing.
Coursework
Coursework in an associate’s degree in Fashion Design covers fashion trends and history, in addition to design fundamentals. Students will become adept at the application of their creativity and knowledge aimed at creating and constructing original designs. Projects are also required to be completed for use by students in assembling a professional portfolio. Coursework in a fashion design degree program typically covers topic areas such as:
•Patternmaking
•Color theory
•Fashion trends
•Textiles
•Illustration
•Fashion sketching
•Draping
•Apparel construction
•Fashion history
Career Choices
Graduates of an associate’s degree program in Fashion Design can seek entry-level jobs at fashion design houses, apparel manufacturers and boutiques. They can choose from various career options such as:
•Designer’s assistant
•Stylist
•Patternmaker
•Sketching assistant
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates can pursue continued education by enrolling into a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Fashion Design. Some programs allow students to tailor their coursework in accordance with their career goals. Internships or practical experiences are commonly required of students enrolled in these 4-year programs. Beyond the bachelor’s degree, interested individuals can pursue master’s degree programs in Fashion Design. Coursework in graduate programs covers fashion design classes, the conduct of research, prediction of trends and specialization in a particular aspect of fashion design.
