State University of New York

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational marketing modules with specialised fashion and international business topics. Early study covers principles of marketing, consumer behaviour, marketing research, statistics for business and digital marketing. Progressing years introduce fashion-specific modules such as fashion marketing and promotion, retail buying and merchandising, visual merchandising and store design, trend forecasting, fashion brand management and luxury marketing.

Students also study international business topics relevant to fashion: global supply chain and sourcing, international retail strategies, cross-cultural consumer insights and fashion law and ethics. Practical learning is emphasised through modules in e-commerce for fashion, social media strategies, content creation and analytics, and coursework in lookbooks, campaigns and collection launches.

Teaching methods typically include lectures, seminars, case studies, studio workshops, live briefs with industry partners and individual and group projects. Many SUNY campuses offer internship placements and options for study abroad, enabling hands-on experience in different fashion markets. Capstone projects or a senior portfolio demonstrate industry-ready skills developed across the degree.

Typical modules

• Principles of Marketing
• Consumer Behaviour
• Marketing Research and Analytics
• Digital Marketing and Social Media
• Fashion Marketing and Promotion
• Retail Buying and Merchandising
• Visual Merchandising and Display
• International Business for Fashion
• Supply Chain and Sourcing in Fashion
• Trend Forecasting and Product Development
• Brand Management and Luxury Marketing
• Capstone Project / Industry Portfolio

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions are based on academic record, relevant coursework and any supporting materials such as a personal statement. Some campuses or concentrations may recommend or consider a creative portfolio if applicants have prior experience in design, photography or visual merchandising, though this is not universally required.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications where English is not the first language. Standardised test requirements (such as SAT/ACT) vary by campus and may be optional; applicants should check the specific campus or undergraduate college within the SUNY system for details.

Relevant work experience or extracurricular activity in retail, fashion, marketing or communications can strengthen an application. Mature applicants with professional experience in fashion or business are also considered through standard admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the fashion, retail and broader brand sectors. Typical entry-level positions include fashion marketing assistant, e-commerce coordinator, retail buyer’s assistant, social media or content coordinator, visual merchandiser and merchandising analyst. With experience, alumni progress to roles such as brand manager, category buyer, retail manager, digital marketing manager, PR and communications specialist, trend forecaster and product development manager.

The international focus of the programme also supports careers in buying and sourcing, supply chain management for fashion, international retail operations and roles with global fashion brands and agencies. Entrepreneurial graduates launch direct-to-consumer labels, online boutiques or consultancies that combine fashion and digital marketing expertise.

Why study at State University of New York

The State University of New York is a large public university system with diverse campuses that offer access to industry links, internship networks and career support services. Studying within SUNY provides options for experiential learning, including placements with retailers and brands, opportunities for study abroad through established exchange programmes and access to campus facilities such as fashion labs, studios and business incubators where available.

SUNY campuses hosting marketing and fashion-related programmes typically combine business school rigour with applied projects and professional networking events, connecting students with employers in regional fashion centres. Dedicated career services, alumni networks and employer fairs help students transition into internships and graduate roles. The programme’s mix of marketing fundamentals, international business perspective and fashion-specific practice equips graduates to enter a competitive, globally connected industry.