Business of Fashion

Dates

Winter Session: January 2–18, 2024
Winter registration begins November 2, 2023

Spring Semester: January 29–May 22, 2024
Spring registration begins November 20, 2023

BE 261 Starting a Small Business
BE 402 The Business of Illustration
EN 201 Organizational Communication and Workplace Relationships
EN 245 Intercultural Communication
EN 306 Conflict Management and Negotiation
EN 321 Strategies of Business Communication
EP 311 Introduction to Entrepreneurship
EP 360 Social Enterprise
FI 262 Costume and Fashion in Film
FM 213 Direct and Digital Marketing for Fashion Business
FM 223 Creative Fashion Presentations
FM 228 The Business of Fashion Styling
FM 251 Small Store Fashion Retailing
FM 441 Computer-Aided Product Development II
HA 201 History of Fashion Photography
HA 344 European Fashion: Ancient Origins to Modern Styles
HA 346 Twentieth-Century Fashion and Art
HI 208 American History through Fabric, Fashion, and Dress
HP 201 Introduction to Home Products
IN 322 Global Marketing
IN 323 Import/Export Regulations
IN 324 International Marketing Research
IN 341 International Logistics
IN 342 International Corporate Responsibility
IN 423 Global Marketing of Luxury Brands
IN 424 Export Promotion Marketing
IN 441 International Business Law
IN 442 International Finance
IN 443 International Business Strategies and Fashion Law
MA 311 Mathematical Modeling for Business Applications
MA 321 Data Analysis for Business Applications
PL 431 Philosophy: Ethics
SS 141 Macroeconomics
SS 242 Microeconomics
SS 345 Fundamentals of Finance for Fashion Industries
SS 445 Money and Banking
TS 131 Textile Principles for the Fashion Designer
TY 101 Introduction to Toy Design

BE 261
Starting a Small Business
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Investigates the problems and challenges of opening and managing a small business. Emphasis is placed on analysis of financial statements and on developing a business plan.

BE 402
The Business of Illustration
1.0 credit
In state $299.00 Out of state $904.00

Students learn the business side of an illustration career. Potential markets for illustration are examined, marketing techniques are explored, and legal issues are studied. Key aspects of financial management, including record keeping and tax planning, are covered.

EN 201
Organizational Communication and Workplace Relationships
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Organizational communication examines the channels and forms organizations utilize to communicate with multiple audiences. This course examines traditional organizational theories and concepts, including group dynamics and group roles, conflict, and organizational culture. Additional components include interpersonal behavior in groups, maintaining ethical values, and developing empathetic manager and leadership skills. Prerequisite(s): EN 121 or ES 129 or equivalent

EN 245
Intercultural Communication
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

This course is designed to examine the relationship between culture and communication. Students will explore cultural patterns, verbal and nonverbal communication, and cultural expressions in intercultural interactions. Course content is selected to balance theory and research in intercultural communication with the application of this information to intercultural encounters. Prerequisite(s): EN 121 or ES 129 or equivalent

EN 306
Conflict Management and Negotiation
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This course examines conflict in an intercultural context. Students will analyze the relationship between conflict and communication from an intercultural perspective. The course explores conflict in interpersonal, professional, and intercultural contexts. Students will learn how conflicts emerge, how they are managed, and how they can be resolved. Prerequisite(s): EN 121 or ES 129 or equivalent

EN 321
Strategies of Business Communication
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Students analyze and critically evaluate business situations, learning to think strategically about professional issues, to make sound judgments and decisions, and to articulate them efficiently. Students will learn informative and persuasive communication strategies for professional contexts, and will practice writing, oral and visual presentations, and digital communication. Prerequisite(s): EN 121 or ES 129 or equivalent, and any additional EN course

EP 311
Introduction to Entrepreneurship
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00

This course introduces students to entrepreneurship and its applicability to the creative arts. It examines some of the legends of the industry and identifies the characteristics necessary for achieving success as an entrepreneur. It reviews today's creative arts and business landscape and introduces students to the significance of entrepreneurship and its opportunistic position at the cutting edge of this industry.

EP 360
Social Enterprise
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00

This course challenges students to create social value through entrepreneurship. Using the tools of entrepreneurs and innovators in the not-for-profit sector, social entrepreneurs apply the skills to develop a social enterprise for society's most pressing social problems. Rather than leaving societal needs to existing government, not-for-profit or corporate solutions, social entrepreneurs find and demonstrate innovative ways to address these needs.

FI 262
Costume and Fashion in Film
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00

This course is cross-listed with HA 347. This course surveys the history of costume design in films from 1895 to the present. Through screenings, museum visits, and readings, students view the work of leading costume and fashion designers and explore the connections between film and related visual art and media. (G7: Humanities).

FM 213
Direct and Digital Marketing for Fashion Business
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Presents a comprehensive overview of the direct marketing industry, including its various components and career opportunities. Through the use of case studies and/or assignments, students learn strategic planning: how to choose and merchandise a product, pinpoint a target audience, develop marketing tests, and analyze results. Students are also introduced to the various electronic vehicles currently used in this ever-changing industry.

FM 223
Creative Fashion Presentations
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Students prepare and present fashion information through clinics, shows, and written communiques. They learn how to research, analyze, and forecast fashion trends. Awareness of career opportunities in the fashion industries is fostered. Prerequisite(s): FM 108

FM 228
The Business of Fashion Styling
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

In the course, students explore the role of a fashion stylist as it applies to the field of merchandising. They learn about career opportunities in fashion styling and wardrobe consulting. The business requirements and entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of fashion styling are explored.

FM 251
Small Store Fashion Retailing
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Enables students to understand the procedures of organizing a small fashion retail enterprise and to become aware of the decision-making inherent in successful small-store merchandising. Students develop a model for a small fashion retail store. Prerequisite(s): FM 108

FM 441
Computer-Aided Product Development II
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This course applies web-based content and computer applications during product development. Students implement professional technical packages including bill of materials, construction details, specifications, cost sheets, etc., based on the creative content from FM 341. Prerequisite(s): FM 341

HA 201
History of Fashion Photography
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00

Surveys fashion photography from its 19th-century origins to the present, emphasizing its relation to major movements in art and photography and to fashion itself. Students consider work of leading fashion photographers and the fashions they depict. (G7: Humanities). Prerequisite(s): HA 112

HA 344
European Fashion: Ancient Origins to Modern Styles
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This course surveys the history of fashion in Europe from antiquity to the early twentieth century in the context of the history of art and design. The historical evolution of fashionable dress for men and women since the Renaissance is emphasized, by means of illustrated lectures, readings and visits to the Museum at FIT and other institutions with costume collections and exhibitions. Prerequisite(s): HA 112 or HA 115

HA 346
Twentieth-Century Fashion and Art
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Surveys 20th-century fashionable dress in the context of art and design history, with emphasis on the work of leading fashion designers. Students study garments and accessories in the collection of The Museum at FIT, as well as photographs, fashion illustrations, and films. (G6: The Arts; G7: Humanities) Prerequisite(s): HA 112

HI 208
American History through Fabric, Fashion, and Dress
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

The history of the United States democracy, capitalism, social movements, mass immigration can be told from many points of view. Students study American history, from the Civil War to the beginning of 21th Century, from the perspective of the design, manufacture, and consumption of fabric, fashion, and dress (G10: American History).

HP 201
Introduction to Home Products
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00

Students are familiarized with the wide range of home products, both soft lines (textile) and hard lines (non-textile), that comprise the home furnishings industry. Product development and merchandising within each category are emphasized. Many sessions take place at retailers and industry showrooms throughout the city.

IN 322
Global Marketing
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Introduction to the research techniques and implementation strategies practiced in global marketing by the fashion and related industries. Students examine the major trends revolutionizing international marketing, the evolution of international companies into global firms, and the expanding role of e-commerce. The role of intercultural communication and negotiation styles in global marketing strategies is studied in detail.

IN 323
Import/Export Regulations
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Import and export regulations enforced by the U.S. Customs Service are presented, including ECCN and HTSUS classification, country of origin, customer screening, export licensing, quota/visa, required import/export documentation, and valuation. Students develop an import or export international business plan. Prerequisite(s): IN 312

IN 324
International Marketing Research
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00

Students learn how to plan, implement, and present an international marketing research project. The course explores secondary data that are available through libraries, public agencies, and online resources and analyzes strategies for generating primary data in foreign markets. International team-building and presentation skills are reviewed and practiced. Lectures and critiques are provided by guest speakers from the industry. Prerequisite(s): IN 322

IN 341
International Logistics
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

International logistics, the organized movement of goods, services, and people globally, is explored. Students survey the impact of market forces, government regulations, labor challenges, and technological change on transportation systems. Students use 3D modeling software to visualize cargo, explore improvements in transport efficiency while considering the environmental impact of trade.

IN 342
International Corporate Responsibility
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00

Students study the sustainability movement, and how ethical, social, and environmental issues are being addressed by multinational corporations. Through the review of current case studies, the course examines the role of fashion businesses in creating socially responsible and eco-friendly global supply chains and their effect in international trade policies.

IN 423
Global Marketing of Luxury Brands
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Through case studies, business articles, and position papers, students learn how international luxury brands are affected by globalization, how they compete for emerging markets and use elements of sustainability and social responsibility in their competition strategies. Students explore the concept of the global consumer and the impact of this consumer on marketing strategies. Prerequisite(s): IN 322 or approval of instructor

IN 424
Export Promotion Marketing
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This course is an introduction to the variety of export assistance policies, programs, and initiatives available to U.S., foreign, and global businesses to effectively market fashion-related goods and services. Students examine various export promotion strategies organized by the U.S. government, foreign governments, and bilateral and private-sector joint programs that aid in the exportation of goods and services. Prerequisite(s): IN 322

IN 441
International Business Law
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Students develop a thorough understanding of the legal framework for international business transactions in the fashion and related industries. They learn how international sales contracts are structured, how international trade rules and national laws apply to cross-border transactions, and how international business disputes are settled.

IN 442
International Finance
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Students learn to use the basic principles and techniques of international financial management and develop an understanding of the financial environment in which multinational corporations and small international businesses operate. Focus is on international capital budgets and capital structure, international cash management, international tax regulations, management of currency and exchange-rate risks, and short- and long-term trade finance. Prerequisite(s): MA 222 or MA 311

IN 443
International Business Strategies and Fashion Law
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This management course introduces the strategic business considerations faced by international fashion firms as they set up operations in foreign markets. Students examine the market entry process of fashion firms and identify key financial, legal, management, and marketing issues.

MA 311
Mathematical Modeling for Business Applications
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

To instill the value of mathematics as a tool for modeling real-life situations, this course focuses on an analytical approach to business decision-making. Topics covered include finance, cash flow, probability, linear programming, and the business applications of basic equations. Microsoft Excel is used. (G2: Mathematics) Prerequisite(s): mathematic proficiency (see beginning of Mathematics section)

MA 321
Data Analysis for Business Applications
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

This course covers intermediate statistics topics with applications to business. Students graph, manipulate, and interpret data using statistical methods and Excel. Topics include data transformations, single and multiple regression, time series, analysis of variance, and chi-square tests. Applications are from the areas of retail, finance, management, and marketing. (G2: Mathematics) Prerequisite(s): MA 222

PL 431
Philosophy: Ethics
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

An introduction to philosophy in general and to ethics in particular. Philosophy is presented as an ongoing activity with emphasis on providing students with logical and conceptual tools for dealing with real-world situations. The course is oriented toward the development of the student's ability to use reason to evaluate arguments, particularly ethical arguments. (G7: Humanities)

SS 141
Macroeconomics
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Introduction to basic principles and characteristics of economic systems. Primary emphasis is on macroeconomic issues, including national income determination, monetary and fiscal policy, and current economic problems. (G4: Social Sciences).

SS 242
Microeconomics
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

Examines the principles underlying the behavior of business firms, resource owners, and consumers within a system of price-making markets. Emphasis is on pricing, resource allocation, cost analysis, price determination under market structures ranging from competition to monopoly, and a functional approach to the distribution of income. (G4: Social Sciences) Prerequisite(s): SS 141

SS 345
Fundamentals of Finance for Fashion Industries
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00

This course focuses on the basic principles and concepts of international finance relevant to the fashion-related industries. Topics include the world financial system and institutions, and financial instruments and their use from a practical standpoint. (G4: Social Sciences) Prerequisite(s): SS 141 and SS 242

SS 445
Money and Banking
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2757.00

Reviews the monetary and banking system of the United States, with emphasis on its structure and regulation. The theoretical framework of the monetary system and its relation to monetary policy are also studied. (G4: Social Sciences) Prerequisite(s): SS 242

TS 131
Textile Principles for the Fashion Designer
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1983.00
Online: In state $705.00 Out of state $2028.00

A survey course in textile principles specifically structured for students majoring in fashion design. The course of study defines basic elements of textile development from fibers through yarn, fabric formation, color, prints, and finished goods. The course introduces students to the concepts of sourcing textiles globally. The laboratory portion introduces methods for the basic identification of textile materials and fundamental analysis.

TY 101
Introduction to Toy Design
1.5 credits
In state $330.00 Out of state $991.50

This introductory course is designed for students interested in exploring the area of toy design. Students learn the design and invention process, as well as effective ways to visually communicate concepts for toy products. Some drawing skills are needed.