Overview

The Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising programme at South Dakota State University provides a robust foundation for students aiming to excel in the fast-paced world of global fashion and retail management. By integrating marketing principles with creative design, the curriculum ensures graduates are well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern commerce. Students develop a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, industry regulations, and the technical aspects of product promotion.

Why Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising at South Dakota State University?

This programme stands out for its ability to meld business acumen with creative flair, offering students access to a dedicated School of Health and Human Sciences. Learners benefit from a curriculum that covers the entire supply chain, from initial design to final retail distribution. The university provides a supportive environment with resources like the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center to enhance academic growth. Furthermore, students can join the Apparel Merchandising Association to build professional networks and gain practical insights into the industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the intersection of design, business, and consumer science. Modules may include:

Apparel Merchandising
Retail Merchandising
Fashion Studies
Design and Supply Chain Processes
Business Theories
Product Development
Product Promotion
Industry Regulations
Consumer Behaviour

Careers with Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising

Graduates are prepared for diverse leadership and analytical roles within the international fashion sector. The programme focuses on developing skills for positions such as store or department managers, professional buyers, and visual merchandisers. Additionally, students may pursue careers as product developers or inventory control analysts, managing the flow of goods in complex retail environments.

Alumni from South Dakota State University have secured positions with a variety of prominent national and international retailers. Notable employers of past graduates include:

Target
Chico's
Scheels
The Limited
White House Black Market

Practical experience is highly encouraged through internship opportunities with leading brands. Students have previously gained industry exposure at organisations such as Nordstrom, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, and The Buckle.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Life, Love, and Money

Consumer Behavior

Consumer Decision Making

Apparel Merchandising

Textiles
Fashion Promotion

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Fashion Design Horticulture and Crop Science View 154 other Bachelors in Fashion Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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