Fashion design education is a blend of technical skills and academic learning.
Fashion design programs are offered through trade schools, community colleges, state colleges and universities across the nation and internationally. Program prestige varies by school and is based on academic reputation and industry recognition and praise. Entry standards vary by institution, as each school sets its own admission's guidelines. Though specific qualifications vary by school, fashion design program acceptance policies are fairly consistent throughout the educational community.
Trade and Technical Colleges
Trade schools focus on getting students to work. They qualify for their federal and state financial aid programs by graduating a high percentage of students and moving them on, in a timely fashion, to the workforce. They are looking for learners who will easily transition into a job. Qualifying for a fashion design program at a trade college is usually based more on skills than on academics. For those without a GED or high school diploma there is often an ATB entrance test whose goal is to prove that the applicant has the "ability to benefit" from training. Passing an ATB waives the need for a high school diploma. To qualify for financial aid to attend a trade college students can have no financial aid in default.
Trade programs usually take under two years to complete and award diplomas or certificates in fashion design upon completion. There is almost always job placement assistance upon graduation.
Community Colleges
Community college training in fashion design usually requires successful graduation from high school. Basic reading and math competency is a standard community college entrance requirement. There may be waiting lists for many of the entry-level fashion design classes, so be patient. Most community colleges offering fashion design have certificate programs available along with associate degree training.
Private Colleges
Private colleges set guidelines for admission based on their own criteria. They often require a high school diploma and are usually reluctant to accept transfer credits from other institutions. Portfolio reviews are a standard practice at many private colleges. This is a relatively expensive method for obtaining a fashion design degree. Associate- and bachelor-level training is usually offered at private fashion design colleges.
State Colleges and Universities
State colleges and universities have varying entrance guidelines. With a two-year community college degree in hand, fashion design students are usually welcome to move on to the state system where they can complete their bachelor-level training in fashion design. Waiting lists are normal and grade point average is taken into account. Keep grades in the 90th percentile for the best chances of acceptance. Departmental policy may require interviews and portfolio review depending upon the demand for space in the program. The Fashion Group International has a student portal on their site to familiarize students with academic community news and industry happenings. Using their resources may guide students making academic choices.
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