Fashion Merchandising

Future of Fashion

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree and minor in fashion merchandising is designed for the student who wants to work in the marketing and selling of fashion.

An outfit can make or break an interview, a first date, or that important presentation. With a keen eye for colors, fabrics and textures, fashion merchandising professionals are experts in putting together the right clothing and accessories to impress.

At Olivet, students become an active part of the fashion industry — planning and directing fashion shows, overseeing the daily operations of a retail store, and more.

An internship is a requirement for this program. Our students have completed internships with a variety of local and national companies, including: TJ Maxx, Nordstrom, Express, Kay’s Jewelers, Old Navy, Pac Sun, Dillard’s and Merchandise Mart Properties.

Olivet Fashion Merchandising Students:

  • Study fashion trends, textiles, pattern design, consumer economics, historical dress and world cultures, retail merchandising, and principles of management — all with a Christian focus.
  • Minor in marketing or business management to increase career opportunities and success.
  • Be less than 60 miles from Chicago’s Merchandise Mart and 350 West Mart Center, home to 120 wholesale apparel showrooms.
  • Participate in Career Day at Chicago’s Fashion Group International. Join several thousand students for workshops. Meet and learn from successful designers, buyers and stylists. Enter the design competition. Volunteer as a dresser, working backstage and helping the models.
  • Earn professional development units (PDUs) by attending professional meetings. 
  • Use our design library, student workroom and computerized sewing machines.
Fashion Merchandising Careers

retail store manager, department store manager, planner for fashion buying, visual merchandiser, buyer, display coordinator, fashion designer, retail salesperson
 

Internship Opportunities

Olivet students have worked for a variety of local and national companies, including Nordstrom's, Express, Bliss Bridal and Prom Inc., Sequels, Maurice's, Parker James Boutique, Lily and Sparrow Boutique, Fringe Boutique, College Fashionista, Posh Inc., and Rellazo Revived Style Boutique. Internships are introductory-level positions, often paid and have resulted in full-time jobs.

Center for Student Success

Opportunities Abound

Family and Consumer Sciences majors can complete field experiences and practicums in area hospitals and schools; interact with industry leaders at conferences; or join Kappa Omicron Nu or the Student Unit of Family and Consumer Sciences associations;

Meet the Faculty

Diane Richardson

When discussing her students, Diane Richardson has no trouble bragging about their accomplishments and how Olivet has contributed to their success. She teaches courses in interior design, fashion merchandising and education. Olivet honored her in 2003 with the Faculty Member of the Year Award.

Family and Consumer Sciences Faculty

By the Numbers:
60
miles from Chicago’s world-famous Merchandise Mart
90
hours of field experience within two medical nutrition therapy courses for dietetics majors
40K+
network of Olivet alumni
4900
students enrolled at Olivet
Family and Consumer Sciences with a Christian Purpose

The best way to see if Olivet is a good fit for you is to visit the campus. We offer unique, customized visit days every weekday, and special Purple & Gold days, too, where you can get up close at all things ONU.

Schedule a Visit