Choosing a Fashion Design School

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Getting a Fashion Design Education

Is a college degree really necessary to become a fashion designer? Some would argue that true style can't be taught. While a few rare individuals may have the raw talent and charisma that enable them to bypass fashion design school, most people will find it hard to get a job in the fashion industry without a two- or four-year degree.

Because fashion design is a highly competitive job market, education level can make the difference between otherwise equally qualified candidates. In fact, education makes you a more appealing job candidate in any field. According to the US Census Bureau, bachelor's degree holders earn almost twice as much as those with only a high school diploma.

No matter how talented you are, fashion design school can be a valuable experience. It can give you opportunities to make industry contacts, polish your construction techniques and learn new fashion design software and programs. It will also help you learn to look at your own work critically and improve your design skills.

Fashion Design Degrees

School Spotlight

AIU offers highly marketable associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs in career paths that are technically-oriented and in demand. Attend an AIU campus with fashion design programs near you.

Certificates, diplomas, associate's and bachelor's degrees all have their own merits. Certificate and diploma programs—and even associate's degrees—are shorter in duration and more intensely focused on fashion design. On the other hand, most bachelor's degree programs will provide you with a well-rounded liberal arts education. In addition to fashion design classes, you will have general education credits to complete. Having a broader educational experience can help you as you are looking for jobs and trying to break in to the fashion business.

A higher level degree may make you more competitive in the job market. However, no matter what fashion design school you attend or which kind of degree you get, you should expect to start in an entry-level fashion design position. As you gain experience in the field, your position and salary will increase.

Fashion Design School Accreditation

Choosing an accredited fashion design school ensures that the education you receive meets industry standards. It also helps ensure that your credits will transfer if you choose to change schools or pursue a higher degree at another school. (Transfer of credits is determined by each individual school.)

Fashion design schools are primarily accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) or the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). They may also be accredited by one of six regional accrediting bodies.

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