The Bachelor of Fashion Design (BA) program helps students develop the technical expertise and theoretical knowledge about fashion and other design industries. The students gain expertise through developing skills in research, concept development, fashion illustration, materials knowledge, patternmaking and garment construction in order to deliver innovative design solutions which have a positive impact on the wider national and international fashion design communities. The Bachelor of Fashion Design (BA) program is offered online via distance learning. After evaluating both academic record and life experience, (CSUNY) staff working in conjunction with Faculty and Academic Advisors will assist students in setting up a custom-made program, designed on an individual basis. This flexibility to meet student needs is seldom found in other distance learning programs. Our online program does not require all students to take the same subjects/courses, use the same books, or learning materials. Instead, the online Bachelor of Fashion Design (BA) curriculum is designed individually by the student and academic advisor.
It specifically addresses strengths and weaknesses with respect to market opportunities in the student’s major and intended field of work. Understanding that industry and geographic factors should influence the content of the curriculum instead of a standardized one-fits-all design is the hallmark of (CSUNY)’s unique approach to adult education. This philosophy addresses the dynamic and constantly changing environment of working professionals by helping adult students in reaching their professional and personal goals within the scope of the degree program.
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list as (CSUNY) programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at (CSUNY)? (Course and Curriculum)
Core Courses and Topics in Fashion Design:
Pattern Drafting
Pattern Techniques
Gerber Pattern Drafting System
Textile Design
Fashion Sketching
Clothing Construction
Couture Techniques
Fashion Journalism
Costume Design
Specialty Design Exploration
Trend Forecasting
Draping
Evolution of Fashion
Fashion Design Applications
Stylizing Fashion
Event Planning and Trade Show Management
Production Techniques
Apparel Evaluation and Production
Creative Fashion Marketing
Entrepreneurship
Orientation Courses:
Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
Organization Theory (Portfolio)
Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
Seminar Administrative Development (Book Summary)
Seminar Cultural Development (Practical Experience)
Seminar International Development (Publications)
Research Project in Fashion Design:
Bachelor Thesis Project
MBM300 Thesis Proposal
MBM302 Bachelor Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication: Each Bachelor of Fashion Design graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.
Career Center Bachelor of Fashion Design
Job Description Bachelors in Fashion Design
Fashion Clothes Designers combine artistic vision, textile expertise and business acumen to create pieces of clothing that are wearable works of art. Most designers develop clothing for mass market sale, though some specialize in niche and haute couture design.
Fashion Clothes Designers review industry reports and observe popular culture to shape a creative vision that will appeal to consumers. They then develop hand-sketches for approval. Fabrics are chosen and a prototype is produced to polish the design. After final adjustments, a patternmaker develops a precise pattern to ensure fit of the finished garment.
Skills for Success
An artistic sense and textile skills alone are not enough to succeed in the industry. Fashion Clothes Designers must possess a thick skin and an ability to thrive under pressure. They must be able to meet tight deadlines, react quickly to changing demands and be able to learn from critique while maintaining their individual style.
Employment Opportunities for Fashion Design
Fashion Designer
Sales Rep
Marketing Manager
Shoe Designer
Purchasing Agent
Fashion Merchandising
Professional Associations
National Retail Federation (NRF)
National Association of Fashion and Accessory Designers (NAFAD)
International Association of Clothing Designers (IACD)
Resources and Tools
Fashion Design Societies & Associations
Designer Entrepreneurs (DEs)
