design and development professionals use their creative and technical skills to design products, develop patterns, monitor quality control and assurance and coordinate sourcing activities in apparel and soft goods companies. the major meets increasing industry demand for graduates who have an understanding of both design and merchandising aspects of the industry. the design and merchandising functions are becoming more inter-related as apparel firms rely increasingly on private brands, and as apparel manufacturers assume a more prominent retailing function. students who elect this option take courses in design, merchandising, and business to prepare them for challenging careers in apparel manufacturing, marketing and retailing companies.

fashion design and development majors may complete part of their studies at partner institutions. up to 24 credit hours toward the major can be earned through study at fashion institute of technology in new york, regents university in london, or florence university of the arts in italy.