Colleges with Fashion Design Majors: A Comprehensive Guide

If you have a passion for style, garment creation, and trend-setting, you may be interested in a fashion design degree. Fashion design is a dynamic field that blends creativity and innovation, along with technical skill. Fashion design schools help students develop the skills they need to influence and shape the world of fashion. This article explores essential information about the fashion design major and some of the top fashion design schools in the world.

What Does a Fashion Designer Do?

The role of a fashion designer is multifaceted, requiring a unique blend of creativity and technical skills. A successful fashion designer must master a variety of skills, including sewing, draping, pattern making, and garment construction. Many aspiring designers choose to attend fashion design colleges to develop these skills while gaining insights into the industry.

Fashion designers create original clothing, accessories, and footwear. They sketch designs, select fabrics, and oversee the production process. However, fashion isn’t just about making clothes: it’s an entire universe of creativity and business. You’ll want to make sure the schools on your list have a degree that’s relevant to the specific area of fashion you’re interested in. Here are some of the fashion design majors:

Fashion Design: This fashion design major is for those who dream about sketching their own clothing lines.
Fashion Merchandising: Love the idea of being the brains behind the brands? Fashion merchandising is all about the business side of fashion.
Fashion Marketing: If you’re more into the promotion side, a degree in fashion marketing could be your calling.
Textile Science: Got a passion for fabrics and materials? Textile science dives deep into the study of fibers and fabrics.
Fashion Management: A fashion management degree is for future leaders in the fashion world.

Technical designers focus on the practical aspects of clothing production and ensure that designs can be manufactured efficiently and meet quality standards. Pattern makers create the templates used to cut fabric for garments. They interpret designs and translate them into patterns, taking into account fabric characteristics and garment fit. Fashion merchandisers bridge the gap between design and retail. They analyze market trends, develop product lines, and strategize how to promote and sell clothing. Fashion consultants advise individuals or companies on style, trends, and wardrobe choices.

Core Classes in a Fashion Design Degree

Regardless of your fashion design degree, there are some core classes fundamental to your training as a future designer.

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Pattern Making/Construction: In these courses, you’ll learn how to create patterns and construct garments.
History of Art and Fashion: These courses will help you discover the evolution of fashion through the ages.
Textile Science: Courses on textile science are all about diving deep into the world of fabrics.

Pros and Cons of a Fashion Design Career

Suppose you’re considering pursuing a fashion design degree and enrolling in one of the best fashion design schools in the world. In that case, you’re probably weighing the realities of “what does a fashion designer do” with their overall lifestyle. Here are some pros and cons:

Pros:

High Creativity and Self-Expression: A fashion design degree allows you to experiment and find your voice, whether you’re designing edgy streetwear or elegant evening wear. After training at the best fashion design colleges, you’ll have the skills you need to bring your ideas to life.
Dynamic and Evolving Industry: Fashion design is a constantly evolving field where trends and techniques change rapidly. If you thrive on innovation, you’ll love staying current with new fabrics, technology, and style influences.
Variety of Work: There’s more to fashion than just designing clothes. From accessories to sustainable fashion, this industry offers a range of opportunities. Some of the best fashion design colleges even provide specialized courses in areas like textile design or merchandising.

Cons:

Highly Competitive Industry: Fashion design is a highly sought-after field. While attending one of the top fashion design colleges can open doors, building a career often requires persistence and the help of a strong network.
Long Hours and High Pressure: Deadlines and seasonal demands mean fashion designers frequently work long hours. Fashion design colleges may prepare you for the pressure, but the reality is intense, especially in fast-paced fashion hubs.
Financial Uncertainty: While the dream is often a high salary, getting there takes time, and early career pay can be low. The fashion industry is growing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 5% employment growth from 2023 to 2033. However, as is the case in any creative field, success and a high salary aren’t guaranteed.

Salary Expectations in Fashion Design

When considering a career in fashion design, it’s natural to wonder about salary expectations. While the median salary offers a good baseline, fashion design salaries can range significantly. Entry-level designers or those working for smaller companies may start at around $40,000 annually.

Considering the salary range tied to fashion design, understanding the factors that influence a fashion designer’s earning potential is crucial.

Geographic Location: Designers working in cities with a strong fashion presence, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, typically have higher salary ranges, though these areas also have a higher cost of living.
Size of the Company: Larger, well-known fashion houses generally offer higher salaries than smaller, independent brands.
Years of Experience: As with many careers, experience significantly increases salary growth.

Choosing a fashion design degree at one of the best fashion design schools can give you the skills and connections to succeed.

Top Fashion Design Schools in the United States

If you’re dreaming of becoming the next big name in fashion, finding the right fashion design college can be the key to transforming that passion into a successful career. As shared before, some of the best colleges and best art schools may not offer a fashion design major. From the design schools of New York City to top universities across the country, these fashion design schools are a great place to start building your college list.

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Fashion Design Schools in New York

Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York City: At the top of the list is FIT, one of the best fashion design schools in New York City. FIT offers students access to a blend of fashion and business education with close ties to the industry. Annually, Fashion Institute of Technology awards around 406 degrees to students studying Fashion Merchandising, which is the school’s most popular major.
Parsons School of Design, The New School, New York, NY: It would be an understatement to say that Parsons is the quintessential American school for fashion design-after all, it ignited the careers of hallmark designers like Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, and Anna Sui. The school has also partnered with industry mainstays like Kering, Tory Burch, and Swarovski in addition organizations such as the United Nations and Special Olympics to construct diverse and meaningful plans of study. To that end, their fashion design curriculum takes a holistic approach to design, tapping into the art of concept theory and employing concrete application of cutting-edge technology which culminates in an always well-attended final fashion show in the middle of the country’s fashion capital of NYC. Each year, The New School awards about 230 degrees to those studying Fashion/Apparel Design, which is the institution’s most popular major.
Pratt Institute, New York, NY: As a whole, Pratt Institute has a prestigious reputation for excellence in the arts, so it only makes sense that they’d have a top-ranking fashion design program, too. The School of Design emphasizes the art of cultural storytelling through the lens of fashion-basically, this program is a solid option for those who have avant garde aspirations or are looking to enter the luxury market. With immediate access to NYC, students have secured internships at Thom Browne, Zero Maria Cornejo, and The Row, to name a few. Every year, Pratt Institute-Main grants about 129 degrees to students majoring in Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology, which is the school’s most popular major.
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York: Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell offers a blend of technology and design through its fashion design major: Fiber Science & Apparel Design program. This fashion design degree allows students to explore topics like sustainable and innovative textiles, as well as learn about the scientific aspects of fibers.
Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY: Named one of Forbes’ best fashion design schools in the world, Marist College’s fashion design degree combines technical fashion with business education. Each year, Marist College grants about 288 degrees to those majoring in Business Administration and Management, General, which is the school’s most popular major.
LIM College, New York City: In the heart of New York City, LIM College offers a fashion design degree that prepares its students for careers in fashion management, merchandising, and marketing. LIM College prides itself on a “learning by doing” philosophy. That said, their Business of Fashion and Lifestyle program isn’t for those looking to take a traditional approach to fashion studies or a tried-and-true college experience.

Fashion Design Schools in California

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM), Los Angeles: Based in Los Angeles, FIDM offers hands-on experience in fashion design, marketing, and merchandising.
Academy of Art University, San Francisco, CA: For students who want to forgo a more traditional university experience, Academy of Art University is a compelling option. The school offers an array of tracks including Fashion Marketing, Design, Merchandising, Product Development, and more; the ability to fine-tune niche skills required for each of those career paths is unique amongst many other programs who take a more generalist approach. The design students are frequent contenders at national design competitions like Supima, and the school itself has even shown at New York Fashion Week.
Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles, CA: Established in 1918, Otis College of Art and Design is one of the oldest arts schools in Los Angeles and one of the few fashion schools located on the west coast. Thus, the array of benefits are unique: “The fashion design program stands out with its industry-centric curriculum, engaging students in exciting and elevated projects from activewear and digital runway to costume and eveningwear,” explains Department Chair Jill Zeleznik. The program prides itself on its emphasis on sustainability in its design curriculum--it’s even offered as a dedicated minor--and with its proximity to Hollywood, the school is a strong choice for students who may be interested in costume design and the red carpet. At Otis College of Art and Design, the three most popular college majors students pursue are Digital Arts, Design and Visual Communications, General, and Fashion/Apparel Design.

Fashion Design Schools in Illinois

School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC): SAIC is one of the top fashion design schools in Chicago.
Columbia College Chicago: Named one of Vogue’s best colleges for design, Columbia College Chicago’s Fashion Studies program is known for its hands-on approach to fashion education which integrates design, technology, and industry knowledge. The fashion design degree offers both a B.A. and a B.F.A. in Fashion Design. Columbia College Chicago is another arts school that is on the rise-their focus on portfolio building and hands-on experience ensures that students exit the program with tangible results. Students find themselves with the opportunity to collaborate with other arts students (such as those in filmmaking or photography), attend seminars with industry professionals, and partake in study-away programs.
Dominican University: Located just outside of Chicago, Dominican University’s Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising curriculum blends creativity with business. The school offers two fashion degree majors: fashion design and fashion merchandising. The fashion design major emphasizes design fundamentals, garment construction, and textile knowledge. The fashion merchandising major focuses on retail and marketing. At Dominican University, the three most popular college majors students study are Psychology, General, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, and Natural Sciences.
University of Chicago: Although not traditionally known for its fashion design degree, the University of Chicago offers opportunities to explore design and art in interdisciplinary ways.

Fashion Design Schools in Texas

Auburn University: First up is Auburn University’s fashion design degree program. Its Apparel Design and Merchandising program offers two tracks: Apparel Merchandising and Apparel Design. Students will learn technical skills in apparel construction, illustration, and digital design while also taking courses in textiles, global production, and fashion marketing.
Baylor University, Waco, TX: Located in Waco, TX, Baylor University offers a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Design and Product Development. This fashion design degree combines design fundamentals with a business education.
University of North Texas, Denton, TX: Located in Denton, TX, the University of North Texas offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design. The fashion design major focuses on technical design, pattern making, sewing, fashion illustration, and digital design. At the University of North Texas, the most popular majors students pursue are Psychology, General, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other, and General Studies.

Other Top Fashion Design Schools in the US

The School of Fashion at Kent State University, Kent, OH: Given its location, it might come as a surprise that Kent State University would rank as highly as it does-yet, their programs rival fashion schools in the country’s larger fashion cities thanks to their global approach to education and thoroughness in curating a program that’s outstanding both within and outside of the classroom. For students who are looking for a more classic approach to university, The School of Fashion at Kent State University is a strong choice. The main campus facilities offer state-of-the-art technology and access to minors and clubs within other colleges, too, offering opportunities to sharpen business skills or participate in Kent State’s award-winning fashion magazine. In addition, The Fashion School has a satellite campus in New York City and international programs in Florence, Paris, Hong Kong, and London.
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Savannah, GA: SCAD is another strong option for students seeking a school outside of a traditional fashion hub. Their programs encompass a variety of tracks, but the design program reigns as a marquee program. In fact, their annual student-run fashion show is one of the largest and most notable in the country. Dirk Standen (previously of Style.com) took the reigns of SCAD’s School of Fashion in 2022 and since then, major industry players like Anna Sui, LaQuan Smith, and Ludovic de Saint Sernin have partaken in collection critiques to help the seniors fine-tune their collections ahead of the show.
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA: Drexel University offers two tracks for their fashion students: studio-based Fashion Design and an all-encompassing Fashion Design & Merchandising major that delves into curriculum from textile production to business insights. Either way, both tracks require a six-month co-op program where students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working alongside top industry professionals in New York, Los Angeles, or other fashion capitals. Their study-away programs are another major draw for prospective students--options include Florence, London, and Seoul.
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Providence, RI: It’s no secret that RISD is one of the country’s best known design schools; this is a strong option for those looking to delve into real deal fashion design instead of more business-focused facets of the industry as potential pathways. In fact, their students are famous for placing highly at coveted design competitions like the Supima Design Competition and getting a ton of eyes on their work. Alumni of the school include industry mainstays such as Nicole Miller and rising industry darlings Zoe Latta and Mike Eckhaus of Eckhaus Latta.
Iowa State University, Ames, IA: This program is best for students who are seeking a program that scratches the surface of multiple facets of the fashion industry--it’s a more generalized degree that is finetuned with specialized tracks and opportunities to further your education with minors from various colleges within this large university. While its Iowa location means it isn’t near a fashion hub, students do have access to high-tech facilities on campus, as well as a set of experienced faculty. There’s also a study abroad programs in both Florence and London.
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR: For students who are interested in activewear or sustainability, seeking an education in the Pacific Northwest may be a suitable choice--Oregon State University alumni find themselves working with nearby, big-name companies like Nike, Adidas, and Columbia Sportswear. The program offers tracks in both design and merchandising and the chance to explore fashion through the lens of sports business and sustainability, too.
University of Missouri, Columbia, MO: Sans a design track, University of Missouri’s Textile and Apparel Management program prepares students for potential careers in merchandising, product development, sourcing, marketing, and more. Plus, the university is known for one of the country’s most prestigious journalism programs, making this a strong option for students who’d like to pursue a path in fashion media by pairing TAM with a Journalism or Strategic Communications minor.

Top International Fashion Design Schools

If you have searched, “What does a fashion designer do?”, you might have noticed the potential for an international career. Here are some international schools to consider:

Aalto University, Espoo, Finland: Located In Espoo, Finland, Aalto University’s fashion design degree is celebrated for its experimental approach to design and emphasis on sustainability.
Accademia Costume & Moda, Rome, Italy: With its location in Rome, a fashion world capital, it may be no surprise that Accademia Costume & Moda is among the best fashion programs in the world. It offers students an education deeply rooted in Italian design traditions.
Bunka Fashion Graduate University, Tokyo, Japan: Our next school is located in the tech and culturally forward city of Tokyo, Japan. Bunka Fashion Graduate University offers a rigorous program with a global reputation for innovative design.
Central Saint Martins, London, England: Known for producing groundbreaking designers and industry leaders, Central Saint Martins is located in London, England.
Domus Academy, Milan, Italy: Our next fashion program takes us back to Italy. Located in Milan, Domus Academy offers a strong focus on design thinking and combines hands-on projects with industry collaboration.
Donghua University, Shanghai, China: Another program in Asia, Donghua University is recognized for its strong focus on textiles and fashion. This Shanghai-based university offers fashion design degrees that emphasize both the technical aspects of textile production and innovative design processes.
ESMOD International, France: One of the oldest fashion design schools in the world is next on our list: ESMOD International. Located in France, this school offers a fashion design major that covers all stages of fashion creation, from design to marketing.
Institut Français de la Mode, Paris, France: Located in Paris, the Institut Français de la Mode is a top institution for students looking to excel in high fashion and luxury brand management.
Istituto Marangoni, Milan, Italy: Based in Milan, Istituto Marangoni is a prestigious fashion, art, and design school with campuses in major fashion capitals, including Milan, Florence, Paris, and London.

Crafting Your Application to Fashion Design Schools

No matter which state or country you hope to pursue your fashion design degree in, you’ll need to craft an application that stands out.

Research Programs: The first step to applying to top fashion design schools is to research different programs and their specific offerings. Be sure to explore program strengths and weaknesses. Look at the specific focus areas of each school, such as sustainability or digital design. This way you can find a program that best aligns with your career goals. Additionally, you may want to consider the location of the program and its industry access.
Prepare Application Materials: Next, after researching programs, you should begin preparing your application materials. Gather all required academic records like transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Reach out to any teachers or mentors who can speak to your design abilities and work ethic.
Create a Strong Portfolio: Your portfolio is arguably the most important component of a fashion design school application. Indeed, a strong portfolio showcases a range of skills and demonstrates the kind of work you hope to one day create. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the requirements of the fashion design colleges you’re applying to. For instance, you should know if they are looking for specific styles or techniques. When you are curating your portfolio, showcase a portfolio of your best work rather than a large volume. Creating a strong application portfolio is key for anyone applying to fashion design colleges. Start by including a variety of work. Your sketches demonstrate your initial concepts and rough ideas, reflecting your creative thought process and approach to design. Be sure to also include completed designs which demonstrate your ability to bring ideas to life. For each piece, provide context on your design choices, challenges, and solutions or innovations to display the intention behind your work. Your portfolio should tell a story of your progression in fashion and design. Therefore, include pieces from different stages of your development, demonstrating how you have grown in skill and creativity. Admissions teams enjoy seeing how your techniques and confidence have evolved over time.
Prepare for Interviews: The last key component of your applications is interview preparation. Remember, this is an opportunity to discuss your portfolio, articulate your goals, and ask questions about the fashion design degree. Also, be prepared to explain the thought process behind each piece you included in your portfolio.

What to Consider When Choosing a Fashion Design Program

Looking to study fashion in college? Whether you dream of sketching haute couture or developing sustainable apparel lines, finding the right fashion design college is key.

How to choose a fashion design program: start by evaluating curriculum depth (history of fashion, textile science, patternmaking, digital design tools), studio facilities (sewing labs, computer-aided design workstations), and faculty credentials. Look for schools with strong industry ties-internship pipelines at major brands, student-run runway shows, or sponsored design competitions. Prospective students often ask “where to study fashion design?” On-campus environments vary: urban campuses in New York or Los Angeles immerse you in vibrant creative communities, while smaller art-focused colleges offer close mentoring and smaller class sizes. Finally, if you’re wondering “how to become a fashion designer,” this list shows you the first step: enroll in a program that fosters both creative vision and technical mastery. From foundational sketch classes to advanced garment construction, these schools prepare you for roles in womenswear, menswear, accessories, or textile design.

Finding a fashion school that’s right for you can feel like a daunting task. After all, the amount of available options are wide, varied, and vast-much like the fashion industry itself. The good news: Lots of options means you can be highly selective in choosing a program that’s tailored to your dream career. Have aspirations of seeing your own collection on the runway? There’s definitely a fashion design program for you. Love texture, color, and prints? A fabric design or textile-focused curriculum is the way to go. Savvy with numbers and building strategies? Buying, merchandising, and marketing tracks are out there, too.

Regardless of your ultimate goals, it’s important to take a holistic approach to selecting a fashion school that works for you. Look for a program that balances exploration, expertise, creativity, and discipline. This is college after all-it’s meant to be a time of discovery! The most important thing is that your experience aligns with your unique set of ambitions, interests, and values.

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