17:1

Student-to-faculty ratio

R1 Ranked

NDSU is a nationally top-ranked research university

94%

Recent graduates employed or continuing education

#1

North Dakota University with the Best Student Life

NDSU’s apparel, retail merchandising and design degree program is your gateway to the fast-paced, ever-evolving global fashion industry. The program offers a comprehensive education that blends creativity with business acumen. Dive into courses that cover everything from market analysis, consumer behavior and merchandising strategies, to hands-on experiences in design and product development. Through a rich blend of mentorship, hands-on opportunities and industry exposure, you will graduate ready to thrive in roles ranging from design and product development to consulting and business ownership.

Explore the Curriculum

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

  • Interior Designer
  • Merchandise Planner
  • Apparel Designer
  • Merchandising Assistant Store Manager
  • Footwear Designer

National Median Salary

$60,000
The median salary is based on national job listings for the above occupations that require five years experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:
  • Digital Merchandising Manager
  • Apparel Product Developer
  • Vice President of Merchandising
Data sourced from Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market analytics and workforce data. 2025.

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

One Program, Three Study Options

Choose one of three options that meets your interest – fashion product development, fashion entrepreneurship or retail merchandising.

Gain Hands-On Experience

Learning goes beyond the classroom with unique partnerships, including an affiliation with the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, which allows you the chance to earn credits and gain firsthand experience in the heart of the fashion world. Go on study tours to national and international destinations to learn more about the fast pace of the changing global fashion and retail industry while earning college credit.

Leadership and Professional Development

Join the Fashion, Business and Apparel Organization to collaborate with peers, build professional connections and to explore the careers and opportunities related to the apparel design and fashion fields.

Flexible Curriculum

Three-year accelerated plans are available for all the three study options and two-year plans are available if you transferred and completed the general education requirements.

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

Excited NDSU marching band members

Now is your moment to expand your horizons for a brighter future at NDSU.

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Connect with a Counselor

Discover the right path for you with guidance from your personal admission counselor. We’re here to help you explore programs, navigate the admission process and find scholarships.

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Visit NDSU

Experience what it’s like to be part of the Bison community. Tour our campus, meet with faculty, enjoy a meal in a dining center and discover why NDSU feels like home.

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Request Information

Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.

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