Online Associate's Degree in Fashion

Online Associate's Degree in Fashion FAQs

There are several types of online fashion degrees available to students at the associate's degree level. An Associate of Arts in Fashion provides a broad overview of numerous fashion topics.

Students who have a particular interest in a fashion subsection can also choose to earn an associate's degree in retail management, fashion merchandising, fashion design and more. Regardless of the program, students will learn about fashion design concepts and creativity to better prepare for the competitive fashion job market.

What Jobs Are Available to Graduates of An Online Associate's Degree Program in Fashion?

Virtually any career related to the fashion industry is obtainable following the completion of an associate's degree program in fashion. Perhaps the most accessible career path is retail management.

Fashion merchandising and window display are also popular career paths. Of course, high-profile job titles such as fashion designer and costume designer are additional professional avenues. Marc Jacobs, Isaac Mizrahi and Tom Ford all began their careers with a degree in fashion. Other career paths include a merchandise buyer for retail stores and fashion stylist.

What Topics Does an Online Fashion Degree Program Cover?

Required classes in a fashion degree program vary depending on the specific school. However, the curriculum typically includes fashion history, fashion merchandising, color theory, fashion design, textiles and other related topics.

Business skills are a key component of many online degree programs. A fashion design degree culminates in the completion of a portfolio and/or line of clothing that can be shown to prospective employers.

What Skills Are Necessary to Succeed in the Fashion Industry?

Creativity is an important characteristic in any fashion career. The ability to spot and predict emerging trends is another favorable skill. A good eye for color and strong attention to detail are also helpful.

Since so many fashion careers require individuals to function in a corporate or business setting, strong professional or entrepreneurial skills are relevant. All of these skills develop through the completion of an online associate's degree in fashion.

What Salary Can I Expect to Earn With a Degree in Fashion?

Yearly salaries for graduates of an associate's degree program in fashion vary considerably. However, with the right set of skills, patience and tenacity, the potential monetary rewards for fashion careers is enticing.

Salaried fashion designers earn an average income of $62,610 annually. Fashion graduates who obtain corporate management positions earn a median salary of approximately $70,570 each year. Retail managers and fashion merchandisers typically earn less (approximately $30,000 to $50,000).