Department of Consumer and Design Sciences
Degree Programs
CADS offers two undergraduate degree options in Apparel -- the Bachelor of Science in Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production Management: Merchandising Option and the Bachelor of Science in Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production Management: Apparel Design and Production Management Option. Additional information on these cutting-edge programs can be found below.
Pursuit of an advanced degree offers opportunities for specialization and increased career options. CADS offers graduate level degree opportunities at both the Master's and Ph.D. level. Click here to learn more about these graduate degree opportunities or contact the CADS office for information about other available advanced degree options.
Students who are accepted into the Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production Management (AMDP) program will declare an option:
Apparel Merchandising (APME) or Apparel Design & Production Management (APDP)
Emerging global issues, rapidly advancing technologies, and consumer behaviors impact success in the fast-paced and dynamic fashion industry. The Apparel Merchandising Option provides students with a unique perspective on this competitive, consumer-driven marketplace. A foundation in textile and apparel product knowledge and business fundamentals is combined with a focus on forecasting and interpreting consumer demand.
The internationalization of producing and marketing fashion-oriented products is emphasized. A strong business orientation is featured. Professional electives provide opportunities to individualize the student’s program to meet career goals.
The senior level internship in either a domestic or international firm is focused on the student’s career interests. It may include marketing, store management, buying, sourcing, sales, merchandising, media and special events, fashion journalism, or consumer relations experiences.
Click here to view the APME curriculum.
The Apparel Design and Production Management (APDP) Option is structured around a core of courses providing knowledge about raw materials and manufactured products, design and product development, production technology, and marketing concepts. Designers and product developers must be creative, but must also understand that fashion begins and ends with the consumer.
This option is unique because of its strong emphasis on developing an understanding of consumer preferences and identifying market niches, in addition to focusing on product development, design and production management principles. Students learn to manage apparel products from the design concept through retail sales, creating tech packages as part of a team-based Apparel Line Development capstone course.
Apparel Design and Production Management students intern with a domestic or international firms; with couture designers or in industry settings. Unique internships in theatrical costuming, or in museums with historical costume or textile collections are also possible.
Click here to view the APDP curriculum.
Additional Undergraduate Program Information
All AMDP students complete an integrated core of classes focused on the apparel supply chain. They will also take a series of courses specific to their option as well as professional electives that will help them to prepare for their career goals. Study Abroad experiences are strongly encouraged as AMDP professional electives.
Students may change options by talking with an Advisor in the College of Human Sciences Academic Affairs Office. They may also select as Professional Electives courses in the other option. They do not, however, receive a double major in both APME and APDP. With careful planning and following the curriculum schedule, students can complete the degree in eight-nine semesters. Note that some classes are taught only once a year.
GPA Requirements
Students must earn a “C” or better in all required professional courses (i.e., required CADS and other Human Sciences courses). Students must earn a “C” or better on any prerequisite CADS courses before enrolling in the required CADS course.
Internships
Gaining work experience in retail or some aspect of the apparel industry prior to the required internship is highly encouraged. Exploration of career paths can be enhanced by using the summers and/or holiday periods for internships/work experiences in preparation for the required professional internship. Professional internships in firms across the country and internationally prepare students for high quality apparel-related positions. Click here for detailed information.
Transfer Credits
Curricula vary from school to school so we cannot guarantee that courses taken in another apparel-related program will transfer as equivalent courses to Auburn’s Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production Management program. Upon application to transfer into either of the AMDP options, an evaluation of transfer credits will be made.
Joseph S. Bruno Auburn Abroad in Italy Program
Participation in the Joseph S. Bruno Auburn Abroad in Italy program is strongly encouraged for apparel merchandising, design, and production management majors. Students can earn the International Minor in Human Sciences (IMHS) while studying at our campus in Ariccia, Italy and still keep on track with their chosen course of study when they return. For more information please visit humsci.auburn.edu/italy.
Minor Opportunities
Department of Consumer and Design Sciences
308 Spidle Hall
Email Us
334-844-4084