Apparel Design & Merchandising Program
Ranked #3 out of 135 General Apparel and Textiles schools in North Carolina by College Factual, Appalachian State University’s Apparel Design & Merchandising (ADM) Program prepares students for careers across the fashion and apparel industry through a comprehensive, hands-on education that integrates design, business, and technology.
Located in Boone, North Carolina, the program combines creative exploration with practical application, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and professional readiness. Students develop strong foundations in apparel design, product development, textile science, and merchandising management while gaining the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in a competitive global market.
The curriculum features a balance of studio courses, research, and industry collaboration, allowing students to explore all aspects of the apparel lifecycle—from initial design concepts to final production and retail strategies. Through class projects, internships, and engagement with industry professionals, students graduate with a strong portfolio and the experience necessary to succeed in a variety of fashion-related fields.
Students take part in an annual field study trip to New York City, where they gain firsthand insight into the operations of leading fashion brands, showrooms, and trend forecasting agencies. This immersive experience connects classroom learning to professional practice and provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable insight and build industry networks.
The program fosters a culture of social responsibility and sustainable design practices, encouraging students to approach their work with ethical awareness and an understanding of fashion’s impact on people and the environment.
Students who complete this program often pursue careers in:
- Apparel design, product development, and technical design
- Fashion merchandising, buying, and retail management
- Visual merchandising, branding, and marketing
- Trend forecasting and consumer research
- Sustainable fashion and textile innovation
- Entrepreneurship and small business development