University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This programme develops practical and theoretical knowledge across apparel design, textile materials and the business of clothing. You will study garment construction and patternmaking, draping, sewing technology and computer-aided design (CAD) for fashion. Textile-focused modules cover fibre and fabric science, textile testing, dyeing and finishing processes, and sustainable materials. Business and merchandising topics include product development, sourcing, retail management, visual merchandising, consumer behaviour and fashion marketing.

Coursework balances studio practice, laboratory work and classroom study. Typical modules and experiences include:

• Garment Construction & Patternmaking – foundational sewing techniques, pattern drafting and fitting.
• Fashion Design & CAD – concept development, illustration and digital design tools.
• Textile Science – fibres, fabric structure, testing methods and performance evaluation.
• Surface Design & Colouration – printing, dyeing and surface treatments.
• Product Development & Sourcing – tech packs, costing, supply chains and vendor relations.
• Merchandising & Retail Strategy – assortment planning, buying, visual merchandising and e-commerce fundamentals.
• Sustainability & Ethics – circular design, lifecycle assessment and responsible sourcing.
• Capstone / Portfolio Project – industry-style project, collection development or research that culminates in a professional portfolio or thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes courses in English, mathematics and ideally art or textiles. Selection may consider overall academic record and a demonstrated interest in apparel or textiles.

Applicants for the design emphasis are commonly asked to submit a creative portfolio showing recent work in drawing, sewing, fashion or related visual projects; portfolios should highlight technical skills and creative potential. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or institutional pathway.

Standard admissions also consider personal statements and references; specific requirements may vary, so applicants should consult the university admissions guidance for current details.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers across design, manufacturing, retail and technical roles. Common pathways include:

• Fashion/Apparel Designer – concept and collection design for brands or private label production.
• Product Developer / Technical Designer – translating designs into production-ready garments, specifications and fit standards.
• Textile Technologist / Quality Assurance – testing fabrics, ensuring performance and compliance, and working on material innovation.
• Merchandiser / Buyer – assortment planning, purchasing and retail strategy for stores or online retailers.
• Visual Merchandiser / Retail Manager – store presentation, display design and customer experience.
• Sustainability Specialist / Supply Chain Coordinator – roles focused on responsible sourcing, lifecycle analysis and ethical practice.
• Costume Designer / Entrepreneur – costume work for theatre/film or launching small fashion/textile businesses.

Students often build industry experience through internships, cooperative placements and project work with regional manufacturers, retailers and design studios, which supports transition into employment or postgraduate study.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a small-program environment with hands-on studios and laboratory resources that let students practice sewing, patternmaking, textile testing and digital design. Faculty combine academic and industry experience and provide close mentoring on studio projects and professional development.

Students benefit from applied learning opportunities including internships, community projects and collaborations with regional businesses. The programme emphasises technical competence and sustainability, preparing graduates for both creative and technical careers across the apparel and textiles sector. Additional student support includes career services, portfolio development guidance and student organisations related to design and merchandising.