Certification in Apparel and Merchandising Major Colorado State University, USA

Throughout your studies in apparel and merchandising, you’ll gain a broad historical and cultural foundation in the apparel industry, along with opportunities to design and create, analyze consumer behavior, and discover how everything from textile design to product development to brand marketing can help shape cultural understanding and awareness. You’ll begin with hands-on learning, internships, and student-run shows; you’ll end with a degree that can take you almost anywhere. This program is accredited by the Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (TAPAC) and National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Students must meet additional requirements in order to continue in the Apparel Design and Production concentration from freshman to sophomore year. A concentration allows you to specialize in a certain area within your major, offering a depth of information and hands-on experiences that you may not otherwise get. Many students in this major will concentrate in one area to work in a specific field after college, as well as find mentors and internships before they even graduate. Your career options with an Apparel and Merchandising degree can range from fashion-industry work to retail merchandising, outdoor apparel and gear design, marketing, fashion entertainment, quality assurance, and beyond. Exploring your interests in the major’s three concentrations can help you find your niche.

Colorado State University (CSU) is a renowned public research institution located in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Founded in 1870 as the Colorado Agricultural College, it has since evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of academic programs across various disciplines.

CSU's sprawling campus spans over 5,000 acres, nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, providing students with a stunning natural environment for learning and exploration. The university is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, evident in its LEED-certified buildings, innovative research initiatives, and campus-wide conservation efforts.

Academically, CSU offers more than 150 undergraduate majors, 100 graduate programs, and numerous professional degrees through its eight colleges. The university is particularly well-regarded for its programs in agricultural sciences, veterinary medicine, engineering, business, environmental science, and health professions.

Research is a cornerstone of CSU's identity, with the university consistently ranking among the top institutions for research expenditures. It is home to numerous research centers and institutes focusing on diverse areas such as infectious disease, atmospheric science, clean energy technologies, and water resources.

CSU prides itself on fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus community, with over 450 student organizations, vibrant cultural centers, and a strong commitment to diversity and equity. The university's Rams athletic teams compete in NCAA Division I sports, further adding to the vibrant campus life.

Moreover, CSU maintains strong ties with the local community and industry partners, providing students with ample opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and experiential learning.

Overall, Colorado State University stands as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, preparing students to become leaders in their chosen fields while addressing the pressing challenges facing society today.