2020 Most Affordable Online Schools for Fashion Degrees

Southern New Hampshire University's (SNHU) online Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Management is a full-time program totaling 120 credits. Students will learn about fashion marketing, color and textile theory, consumer behavior, planning, and management, and will gain real-world experience through an internship in fashion merchandising. The curriculum also offers a business foundation with classes such as Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Business Law, and Marketing. Classes... are taught by industry experts.

Coursework is delivered asynchronously through the Brightspace learning management system. Students have 24/7 access to the platform and can complete assignments at their convenience but must adhere to deadlines. Course content typically includes discussion boards, papers, projects, and presentations. SNHU has frozen tuition rates through 2021 and offers scholarships, grants, and tuition discounts for active-duty service members (and their spouses). Students can earn up to 12 credits by testing out of college courses, and transfer students can apply up to 90 credits toward their degree. Distance learners have access to a writing center, tutoring and career services, academic advising, an online library, and more.

An admissions counselor will walk prospective students through the application process, which requires an online application, a transcript release form, and an attestation confirming high school graduation or GED. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for the school's six 8-week terms.

Old Dominion University's (ODU) online Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising requires 120 credit hours and focuses on the planning, procurement, and marketing aspects of the fashion industry. Students will research target markets, evaluate business decisions, and learn how to meet the demands of both retailers and consumers. Students will also complete an internship to apply what they've learned in a real-world environment.

Classes are delivered online through Blackboard and include a mix of... synchronous and asynchronous learning. Coursework typically includes message boards, discussion rooms, assignments, and exams. Students can meet with their instructors during virtual office hours and have access to academic resources such as a student success center, free software, career and library services, and tutoring. Virginia residents receive a tuition discount, and active duty military students may also qualify for a reduced rate.

Students can apply online for the fall, spring, or summer semester; each has an application deadline. An enrollment coach will walk prospective students through the application process and help students with previous college experience determine how many credits will transfer. ODU has also partnered with the Virginia Community College System (along with other select institutions) to offer guaranteed admission and make the transfer process as seamless as possible.

Central Michigan University (CMU) offers two 120-credit online fashion merchandising degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising & Design (no minor required) and a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Fashion Merchandising & Design (requires a minor). Both offer concentrations in Product Development and Visual Merchandising and include hands-on projects and a final portfolio. Students use the latest technology to prepare them for careers in the industry. Some of the core courses include Apparel... Design Analysis, CAD for Apparel, and History of Western Dress.

Students will access courses, participate in lectures, submit assignments, take quizzes, and communicate with instructors and peers through Blackboard, which is available 24/7. Most courses are offered asynchronously, but some may meet at specific times. In addition to weekly discussions, students may be required to participate in discussion boards, group assignments, and projects. Students can earn up to 60 prior learning credits for education earned through work, training, and life experience. CMU also offers a payment plan, which breaks semester charges into interest-free monthly payments. Resources for distance learners include the writing center, tutoring, and an Online Student Ally, who has been trained to provide support and guidance.

Prospective students can apply online and will also need to submit official transcripts or GED test scores. A GPA of at least 2.0 is required.