The Fashion Merchandising Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Advertising & Marketing Communications (AMC) program is a dual degree program completed in conjunction with the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Fashion Merchandising concentration students who meet eligibility requirements may opt to apply and spend one year (junior year) at FIT for an additional degree (A.A.S.) in Advertising and Marketing Communications. Successful students return to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) to complete the four-year program. This program prepares students for entry level management positions in the broad field of fashion merchandising, advertising, and marketing communications, with an option to minor in business administration.
The Fashion Merchandising FIT Advertising & Marketing Communications program is a dual degree program completed in conjunction with the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Fashion Merchandising students who meet eligibility requirements may opt to spend one year (junior year) at FIT for an additional degree (A.A.S.) in Advertising and Marketing Communications. Students return to UMES to complete the four-year program and receive both degrees at graduation. This program prepares students for entry level management positions in the broad field of fashion merchandising, advertising, and marketing communications, with a minor in business administration.
Departmental Requirements
Human Ecology students are required to maintain a “C” in each course in the Human Ecology Major Core requirements, Program Foundation Knowledge, Program Electives, and a “C” average in General Education and Supportive Course Requirements. Individual concentration areas may choose specific courses to fulfill General Education requirements. Students transferring into the department from another department or institution must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
All Human Ecology students are required to complete an out of class practical experience which can be in a form of an internship, practicum, or research project. Each concentration has specific requirements for this out-of-classroom practical experience so students should consult with their advisors for details about this aspect of their academic preparation.
To be eligible to participate in the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Visiting Student Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a full-time student at UMES in the Department of Human Ecology prior to participation in the Visiting Student Program.
- Must be in good academic standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Must complete all required application forms and meet deadlines listed below in order to be considered for admissions. (See faculty coordinator for related forms).
- Must complete the last 30 credit hours of course work for his or her degree at UMES.
Upon acceptance to the University and entrance into the Department of Human Ecology, a student should inform his/her academic advisor prior to registration of his/her interest in participating in the Visiting Student Program. Students will be expected to make an appointment with the FIT liaison prior to November 15 of the sophomore year for details and to receive all information pertaining to the program. Students who plan to attend FIT will be required to submit all applications and financial aid materials by December 31 of their sophomore year.
Career Opportunities
Possible career opportunities include merchandiser, buyer, fashion stylist, fashion consultant, and the fields of public relations, marketing, journalism, and broadcasting.