Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Fashion Design Schools in Athens-Clarke County, Atlanta, Augusta-Richmond County, Columbus, Macon-Bibb County, Sandy Springs, Savannah, and South Fulton.
Why are Fashion Design Schools in Georgia Your Best Bet?
Curious about Fashion Design Schools in Georgia? You’re about to find out why this state’s programs can kickstart your fashion career.
We’ll explore top institutions that blend creativity with industry know-how, equipping you for success.
Georgia Southern University – Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design
Georgia Southern University’s Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design offers an education that blends creativity with business acumen. This program is designed to provide you with a holistic understanding of the fashion industry, addressing both its creative and commercial sides.
What You’ll Learn
- Fashion Merchandising: You’ll study merchandising principles, textile production, trend forecasting, marketing, and retailing. This emphasis prepares you for roles in fashion public relations, merchandise consulting, visual merchandising, and marketing.
- Apparel Design: This focus trains you in apparel design, fashion illustration, visual merchandising, flat pattern design, and draping. Career opportunities include apparel design, costume designing, fashion illustration, and textile and graphic design.
Key Features
- Internship Program: A semester-long internship is required, ensuring that you gain practical industry experience.
- Study Tours: The program includes study tours to fashion hubs like Atlanta and New York, giving you exposure to historic costume collections, wholesale showrooms, and retail stores.
- Hands-On Practice: You’ll engage in hands-on practice through the school’s well-equipped labs and resources, providing a solid foundation in fashion design.
Ranked among the top fashion merchandising schools in the U.S. by Fashion-Schools.org, Georgia Southern University stands out for its strong faculty and rigorous curriculum. The official Georgia Southern University website provides the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding hours, prices, and faculty details.
University of Georgia – Fashion Merchandising
The University of Georgia’s Fashion Merchandising program offers comprehensive training in both the fashion and textile industries. This program is divided into two main tracks to suit your career ambitions: Fashion and Brand Management, and Product Development and Design.
Curriculum Highlights
- Fashion and Brand Management: This track covers retailing principles, planning, buying, trend forecasting, and brand management. It aligns with industry demands, preparing you for roles like retail buyers, fashion coordinators, and PR directors.
- Product Development and Design: Here, you’ll focus on computer-aided design, global sourcing, product development, and apparel manufacturing. This track is ideal for those interested in apparel line development, visual merchandising, and apparel manufacturing.
Additional Benefits
- Student Merchandising Association: This association offers hands-on projects like video lookbooks and philanthropic fashion shows, enhancing your practical experience.
- Study Abroad Options: The program includes tours to New York City, Ghana, London, and Peru. Out-of-state students can enjoy in-state tuition rates during these tours.
- Minor Opportunities: Consider minors in related fields like Art, Drawing and Painting, Fabric Design, Interior Design, and Theatre to further enrich your education.
The University of Georgia ensures that you gain industry-specific skills and competencies necessary for a highly successful career. The official UGA website offers additional information about the program specifics, ensuring you’re well-informed about the opportunities available.
Brenau University – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design at Brenau University offers a curriculum tailored to enhance your technical and creative skills over eight semesters. Here’s what makes this program stand out:
What You’ll Learn
- Problem-Based Apparel Design: Develop designs tailored for different target markets, ensuring a broad understanding of design challenges.
- Technical Courses: Master patternmaking, draping, and apparel construction with hands-on experience.
- Inclusive Fashion: Collaborate with the Occupational Therapy Department to create clothing suitable for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of inclusive design.
Key Features
- State-of-the-Art Labs: Utilize professional sewing machines, size-inclusive dress forms, and various fabrics and materials in a well-equipped fashion lab.
- Historic Clothing Collection: Gain unique insights into fashion history by working with the Brenau Historic Clothing Collection.
- Annual Fashion Show: Showcase your creations at the university’s annual fashion show, gaining real-world presentation experience.
Graduates are prepared for careers as fashion designers, patternmakers, technical designers, and more. For those undecided about a full commitment, the program is also available as a minor.
What to Consider When Choosing a Fashion Design School
Choosing the right fashion design school involves several critical factors:
Curriculum
- Program Coverage: Ensure the curriculum addresses both creative and technical aspects of fashion design and merchandising.
- Course Alignment: Look at specific courses offered to see if they align with your career goals whether in design, merchandising, marketing, or management.
Faculty Expertise
- Qualifications: Research the faculty’s industry experience and academic credentials.
- Connections: Aim to study under faculty who have strong professional networks in the fashion industry.
Campus Facilities
- Labs and Equipment: Verify that the school has state-of-the-art facilities, including fashion labs and computer labs with the latest industry-standard software and materials.
Internship Opportunities
- Industry Experience: Look for programs with robust internship placements that offer real-world experience.
- Career Pathways: Check if past interns have transitioned into jobs at reputable companies.
Career Support Services
- Transition Assistance: Ensure the school provides career counseling, job placement services, and networking opportunities.
- Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can offer valuable mentorship and job connections.
Fashion Design Schools By State
Conclusion: Your Future in Fashion Design
Selecting the right fashion design school is a crucial step towards a successful career. Each of these programs in Georgia offers unique strengths, making it essential for you to find one that best aligns with your career goals and personal interests. Begin your journey by considering these top Fashion Design Schools in Georgia, and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the fashion industry.