FASHION MERCHANDISING A serious interest in the fashion industry could lead you to an exhilarating career as a buyer, a visual merchandiser, a marketer, or a public relations specialist for one of the nation’s biggest brands. Business-oriented curriculum prepares majors with an in-depth look into the fashion industry, exploring topics such as product line development, textiles, styling, and brand marketing. It’s our mission to prepare students for professional fashion careers or graduate education by providing teaching excellence that advances creativity, global awareness and innovative business practices.
CHECK US OUT mercyhurst.edu/fashion For more info, contact: Amy Weaver-Kaulis Department Chair 814-824-3387 akaulis@mercyhurst.edu
APPLIED EXPERIENCE The cornerstone of a Mercyhurst education is our emphasis on hands-on experience and applied learning beyond the classroom. It is our goal to graduate professionals who are knowledgeable fashion professionals. To gain hands-on experience, our students: • • • • • • • • •
Complete an industry-specific internship Conceptualize a full product line from start to finish Develop a professional-level resume and cover letter Adopt the role of stylist to work with real clients Practice interviewing techniques and public speaking Explore fashion capitals of the world Learn emerging fashion trends Conduct market and consumer trend research Develop a brand campaign and business plan
Fashion Merchandising FIND YOUR FIT.
501 E. 38th Street, Erie, PA 16546 • mercyhurst.edu
mercyhurst.edu/fashion
STRAIGHT FROM OUR GRADS “The most valuable aspect of attending Mercyhurst was the close relationship our department has with current students and alumni. Whether it is for advice, job referrals, or just building connections, the Fashion Merchandising department members are always willing to help one another out, which is so important in our industry.”
Brooke Sommer `17
Assistant Buyer - DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh, PA
“I feel I was well prepared by Mercyhurst, the small class sizes and individualized attention help narrow in my focus on what I wanted to do post-graduation. Some of classes offered at Mercyhurst are not offered by other schools, which gave me an edge against my counterparts in an entry level position.”
Molly Murray `14
Assistant Planner Beauty/Cosmetics - Belk Charlotte, NC
“At Mercyhurst, you get a really personal feel by having smaller class sizes. I always felt like I was being heard and always felt comfortable talking to my professors. It also gave me a great opportunity to connect with other people in my major.”
Rachel Bock `13
LEARN & EARN 3+1 programs: 2 degrees • 4 years
For many fashion merchandising students, the deciding factor in attending Mercyhurst is the opportunity to enroll in our 3+1 program where they get to spend a year earning a second degree in one of two of the world’s fashion capitals. Students can choose to spend their senior year at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, earning a Bachelor of Science from Mercyhurst University and an associate degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
After their senior year abroad, students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science from Mercyhurst and a bachelor’s degree in fashion and luxury retail management from the American Business School of Paris.
Working for TV is unlike anything I’ve done before and it has a more rewarding feeling once you see the products you helped bring in succeed. If you haven’t heard it yet, Hurst really is home. I learned a lot in fashion classes but also all the other courses I took kept me well rounded.
Whitney Owens `17 Merchandise Assistant HSN headquarters Saint Petersburg, FL
BEYOND OUR GATES Some of our graduates are currently working at the corporate level of the following companies: • • • • • • • • •
American Eagle Barney’s New York Coach Dolce & Gabbana Forever21 H&M Levi Strauss and Co. Macy’s New York & Co.
• • • • • •
Nine West QVC Ralph Lauren rue21 Target Tory Burch
Associate Buyer of Men’s Apparel - The Finish Line Inc. Indianapolis, IN
“The Professional Development Class is a huge benefit to students. Practicing interviews and improving my résumé was my greatest advantage when I tried to land my job and internships.”
Hannah Grace Lau `18 Client Agent - Stitch Fix Austin, TX
30+ students travel with faculty each year to a fashion capital of the world