Michigan State University

What you'll study

The core of the degree is a full undergraduate marketing curriculum covering fundamentals such as marketing principles, consumer behaviour, market research, brand and product management, digital marketing and international marketing. Students pursuing an international fashion marketing focus select complementary electives and experiential courses that connect marketing theory to the apparel and fashion industries and to global trade.

• Core marketing topics: Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Market Research, Brand Management, Pricing and Sales Strategy, Digital and Social Media Marketing.
• International and strategic topics: Global Marketing, International Trade and Regulations, Cross-cultural Consumer Insights, Global Supply Chain Management.
• Fashion- and retail-specific topics: Retailing and Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Fashion Product Development, Sourcing and Production for Apparel, Retail Buying and Assortment Planning.
• Supporting skills: E‑commerce and omnichannel strategy, data analytics for marketing, sustainability and ethics in fashion, negotiation and contract basics.
• Experiential learning: Internships with brands and retailers, practicum projects with industry partners, and opportunities for study abroad to experience fashion markets in Europe, Asia or other regions.

Entry requirements

Applicants are admitted to the Broad College of Business marketing programme based on a competitive review of secondary school academic performance and the MSU admissions process. Typical successful applicants demonstrate strong achievement in college-preparatory coursework, clear written communication skills and quantitative reasoning. Specific coursework that supports readiness for this pathway includes mathematics, English, and social studies; additional coursework or experience in visual arts, textiles or business is beneficial for applicants interested in the fashion emphasis.

MSU evaluates applications holistically. Where applicable, students may be asked to meet college-level prerequisites before taking upper-level marketing or fashion-related electives. International applicants must meet institutional requirements for English proficiency and comparable academic preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates combine marketing expertise with a sector-specific understanding of apparel and retail operations, preparing them for a wide range of roles in fashion and global retail. Common career paths include:

• Brand or product manager for apparel or accessories
• Merchandise planner, buyer or category manager in retail chains
• Digital/e‑commerce marketing manager focused on fashion brands
• Visual merchandiser or retail experience designer
• International marketing coordinator or business development roles supporting global sourcing and distribution
• Supply chain and sourcing specialist for apparel production
• Sustainability and corporate social responsibility roles within fashion companies
• Entrepreneurship—starting fashion labels, retail concepts or direct-to-consumer brands

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State’s Broad College provides rigorous marketing training supported by cross-campus resources that benefit students interested in international fashion marketing. You gain access to faculty with expertise in consumer and global marketing, hands-on projects and a large regional network of retailers, suppliers and design communities. The university’s study abroad programmes, internship placements and career services help students build international experience and industry contacts, while the broad alumni network supports recruiting and mentorship as you launch a career in the global fashion and retail sectors.