

55 Stockton Street
San Francisco, CA 94108

FIDM/Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandisings curriculum is intense, concentrated, and rewarding. Its purpose is to prepare students for careers in the Fashion, Interior Design, Graphic Designs, and Entertainment industries. FIDM's philosophy is: "Do what you love and you will be successful." FIDM challenges you to channel your dreams and live up to your greatest potential. Our graduates enter the global market as highly trained professionals ready to make a contribution.
We offer Associate of Arts, Associate of Arts Professional Designation, Associate of Arts Advanced Study, and Bachelor of Science degree programs. Every program leads to a degree. Our curriculum has been developed to reflect the needs of each industry served by our majors and is continually updated.
San Francisco Campus
Look outside the window at FIDM San Francisco in Union Square, and you see a giant Macy's sign--a living representation of this city's hyperactive retail community. Its strong creative presence extends to fashion and interior design, merchandising, and manufacturing as well. There are significant fashion and product giants with headquarters in Northern California:
- Gap Inc. (Banana Republic, Gap, and Old Navy)
- Williams Sonoma Inc. (Williams-Sonoma, Williams-Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Teens, Pottery Barn Kids and Hold Everything)
- Levi's - the world's #1 clothing manufacturer
And you'll find FIDM's high-rise campus, with its expert, industry-wise faculty, at the center of it all.
Accreditation
FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). FIDM art and design programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Learn More
AA in Apparel Manufacturing Management
Back to topDo you see yourself launching a clothing line? Want to start your own label? The Apparel Manufacturing Management program is designed to prepare students for eventual ownership and/or management of a fashion manufacturing company. This applied learner-centered program involves the student in all phases of:
- Product and line development
- Global sourcing
- Production planning
- Use of technology
- Sales management
- Financial control
- Human resources management
The curriculum stresses the importance of teamwork and effective communication in decision-making from the development of the initial concept to the delivery of the finished product.
Students have access to FIDM's 12,000-square-foot Fashion District loft that simulates a manufacturing facility, where they study costing, production planning, line development, textile testing, and other applications in the apparel industry. Career opportunities are exploding as companies adapt new technology to methods that have been used for generations.
FIDM's program prepares graduates to meet the demand for highly skilled technicians and management personnel able to bridge the old with the new in this dynamic field. Students in this major may apply for the Advanced Study Degree Program in International Manufacturing & Product Development, Fashion Design, Footwear Design, or Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing
Back to topAre you always first in line to try the latest makeup or fragrance? Do you have shelves of hair, skin, and body products? The Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing program is a comprehensive curriculum that offers students an insight into the World of Beauty, as it reveals the complexities and challenges of each of the components and factors that make up the industry. Students become insiders who design and market the skin, hair, fragrance, and color products that help people look and feel their absolute best.
The 13-course Beauty major offers theoretical and practical disciplines as well as interactive demonstrations and hands-on application in a broad range of subjects from concept, product, and package development to strategic planning, brand management, communications, and entrepreneurship. Graduates will possess the knowledge, language, and skills to distinguish career opportunities in many fields including Marketing, Product Development, Management, Package Design, Entrepreneurship, Sales, Retail Operations, Spa, and Wellness. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Business Owner of a spa or salon, Account Coordinator for a cosmetic company, Beauty Advisor for a cosmetics line or a Buyer for a chain of cosmetics stores.
Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Digital Media
Back to topAre you interested in the special effects in action movies or the latest video games? Imagine working on movies, DVDs or editing music videos for MTV. FIDM's Digital Media Program allows students to do all that and more. The mission of the Digital Media program is to provide students with the opportunity to integrate imagination and technology. The program teaches a synergistic approach to modern technologies and trains students to blend sight, sound, and motion seamlessly into a digital media format. Degree programs in Digital Media are designed to build specific skills upon a strong foundation of general knowledge of digital film and television production. Students learn all aspects of storytelling, such as:
- Producing
- Directing
- Sound design
- Digital compositing
- Editing
Our students are complete digital artists, who have learned their crafts in the context of creative expression and are also prepared for specialties, such as 3-D animation or sound. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Visual Effects Specialist, Sound Designer and 3D Animator. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Fashion Design
Back to topDo you doodle fashion sketches in your spare time? Do you love making clothes and accessories for yourself and your friends? If you love runway shows and can see your name in the spotlight then FIDM's Fashion Design Program gives you the edge to learn to create your own fashion line. The Fashion Design program prepares students for careers in fashion design for the apparel industry. The curriculum stimulates creative expression in all aspects of fashion design, including:
- Fashion sketching
- Creative design
- Computer applications
- Draping
- Pattern drafting
Students will understand the importance of communication and critical reasoning and the effect they have on this diversified and global industry. The program is structured to challenge and inspire students by incorporating artistic, technical, and theoretical elements into a realistic approach to the Fashion Design industry. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Designer, Design Director or Technical Designer for a top fashion line. Students in this major may apply for the Advanced Study Program in Fashion Design, Film & TV Costume Design, Footwear Design, Theatre Costume Design, International Manufacturing & Product Development or the Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Business Management Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
Advanced Study Programs under the AA Degree Program in Fashion Design
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Advanced Fashion Design
The Advanced Study Program in Fashion Design develops specialized expertise in the student's individual area of study. The curriculum is structured to provide the opportunity to explore and analyze new ideas, and study industry related principles of design and construction as well as to apply industry techniques. Students accepted into the program are the chosen group who create the styles showcased at FIDM's annual Debut Runway Show.
Film & TV Costume Design
The Advanced Study Program in Film & TV Costume Design provides a comprehensive view of a field with its own distinct tradition and creative challenges. It offers students a chance to explore those qualities that make film and television an exceptional choice for designers.
The development of a broad frame of cinematic reference, the interaction with working professionals, and the opportunity to make practical and creative decisions within the time frame of a production, will provide the student with the knowledge and skill necessary to launch a career in the global entertainment field.
Footwear Design
The Advanced Study Program in Footwear Design provides the student with a comprehensive view of both the domestic and European footwear industries. It offers students an opportunity to express creative and technical skills while acquiring a professional understanding of the decision-making process of the designing, producing, merchandising, and marketing of footwear.
Theatre Costume Design
The Advanced Study Program in Theatre Costume Design is an intense and concentrated program designed to encompass the many aspects of costuming from the legitimate stage to television, film, and video. The student studies costume crafts, costume design, costume construction, wardrobing, rendering, script analysis, breakdown, and the history of costume and décor. The Theatre Costume Design specialization prepares the exceptional student to enter the rigorous field of costuming for theatre, film, television, video, and spectacle.
AA in Graphic Design
Back to topDo words like creative, artist, problem solver and leader describe you? FIDM's Graphic Design Program provides the visual language that creatively speaks in the way you want to be heard. The Graphic Design program's industry connections--via an outstanding Advisory Council, committed instructors who are working professionals in their industries, and a powerful Alumni network of over 40,000 graduates--allow for coveted internships and other exciting employment opportunities within the field of Graphic Design:
- Top companies like Disney meet face-to-face with FIDM Students on campus to review portfolios and meet emerging talent.
- Executives from advertising and entertainment industries bring their experience to the classroom, guest lecturing, serving on the Advisory Council, and teaching special courses.
The Graphic Design department's impressive Advisory Council includes top executives from some of the most exciting companies in the entertainment, fashion, and advertising arenas:
- Trailer Park, Inc.
- Petrol Advertising
- The Graphic Orb Companies
- Rodi Marketing
- Shoolery Design
AA in Interior Design
Back to topDo you enjoy reading Interior Design Magazines? Perhaps you've decorated your room or even helped rearrange the entire house. Do you like determining everything inside your personal space or imagine what you could do with other interior spaces? FIDM's Interior Design Program gives you the knowledge and the tools to make that happen. The Interior Design program curriculum is a comprehensive program combining theoretical elements of interior design with practical creative approaches to the solution of functional and aesthetic design problems in the living, working, and recreational human environment. Competencies developed by the program include:
- Architectural drafting
- CAD illustration
- Graphic presentation skills
- Design proficiency
Students will also develop a working knowledge of the materials, resources, and business procedures pertaining to the Interior Design profession.
Completion of the curriculum satisfies the educational requirement for professional membership in ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) and IIDA (International Interior Design Association), and enables students to qualify for the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) examination. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Set Designer, Interior Designer, Production Designer for movie sets or Project Manager of large projects such as commercial design projects. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Jewelry Design
Back to topDo you swoon at the sight of a great brooch? Make friendship bracelets or beaded necklaces to sell or give to your friends? Have an enviable collection of fashion jewelry you have picked up at boutiques or vintage shops? FIDM's Jewelry Design Program provides the student the opportunity to design and produce finished jewelry through hands-on experience. The curriculum offers a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the creative and manufacturing process of jewelry. Included in the program are courses in:
- Metalsmithing
- History of Jewelry
- Gemology
Students enrolled in FIDM's Jewelry Design Program will be enriched by having direct access to one of the largest jewelry districts in the world. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Jewelry Designer, Design Assistant, Metalsmith and Production Manager for a jewelry manufacturing team. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Merchandise Marketing
Back to topDo you dream of owning your own boutique? Love to shop 'til you drop-on someone else's budget? Do you want to manage a team that loves fashion as much as you do? FIDM's Merchandise Marketing program allows students to become Fashion Developers and Fashion Buyers. They travel to national and international Fashion markets in order to track the latest trends. The curriculum trains students in the planning, purchasing, allocation, and promotion of merchandise, the application of technology to this task, and the development of human resources dedicated to the selling of goods and services.
Students will understand the importance of professionalism, effective communication, and critical reasoning for achieving results in this diversified industry. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Personal Shopper, Store Manager, Merchandise Coordinator, Showroom Manager, or Merchandise Planner. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA program.
AA in Merchandise Product Development
Back to topDo you love to re-make thrift store clothes, or decorate your jeans? If you enjoy changing or rethinking the look of clothes but aren't into sewing, you might want to investigate a career in the growing field of Merchandise Product Development. The Merchandise Product Development program at FIDM prepares students for a career in merchandising established fashion brands. The curriculum focuses on planning, developing, and presenting product lines, and on the technical design of individual styles within the line. Students learn to compete successfully in trend analysis, strategic planning, line development, and preproduction planning. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Product Developer, Trend Analyst, Sourcing Assistant, Assistant Designer or Fabric/Trim Buyer. Students in this major may apply for the Advanced Study Degree Program in International Manufacturing & Product Development and the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
Advanced Study in International Manufacturing & Product Development
Back to topThe Advanced Study Program in International Manufacturing & Product Development provides students with a professional education designed to equip them with the essential skills they will need to compete in the fast-paced, global community of manufacturing and product development.
The comprehensive program involves students in all phases of the product development cycle from the initial concept and design of the product through technical design, sourcing, costing, production, and marketing to the consumer. In addition, trips to Europe and Asia keep students up-to-date with the latest trends affecting and impacting the international marketplace.
AA in Fashion Knitwear Design
Back to topWant to have a specialized skill in Fashion Design? Looking for a creative career in a specific area of Textile Design? Take your love for textiles a step further with a degree in Fashion Knitwear Design. More than just sweaters and scarves, knits are an integral part of couture and ready-to-wear fashion and accessories. Fashion Knitwear Designers have a specialized skill set that gives them a competitive edge in an evolving market.
The mission of the Fashion Knitwear Design program is to provide specialized courses in knitwear design for fashion and/or apparel manufacturing students. The curriculum is structured to provide industry principles of design and construction for full-fashion knitwear, including:
- Fashion Illustration
- Pattern Drafting
- Specification and Costing Analysis
Students in this major may also apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Program upon completion of the AA Program.
AA in Textile Design
Back to topCan you imagine designing fabric for your own fashion line or for a company's apparel? Are you attracted to color, prints, and the feel of lush fabrics? Do you love drawing & painting? Are you detail-oriented? Perhaps you are interested in knitting or embroidering. If so, Textile Design might be just the program for you. The mission of the Textile Design program is to prepare students for successful careers in creating and styling textiles for the apparel and interior design industries. Students develop their expressive and technical skills through both painting and CAD applications. Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Textile Designer, Textile Stylist, Surface Designer, Knitwear Designer, or Colorist. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
AA in Visual Communications
Back to topDo you create handmade cards and gifts for your family and friends? Are you always experimenting with different clothing or color combinations, or do you instinctively know how to display items in an appealing way? Maybe your friends come to you for fashion advice. Professionals in Visual Communications convey messages through visual images, whether a window display, stylist outfit, movie set, or an event. The Visual Communications program offers its students a diversified, creative business background in visual presentation, exhibit/trade show design, retail and special event display, and store planning, with an emphasis on the fashion and entertainment industries. Students benefit from exposure to practical and theoretical visual merchandising techniques. Courses include:
- Presentation Design
- Color Theory
- Concept Visualization
- Merchandise Trend Analysis
- Computer Graphics
Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Creative Director, Store Visual Manager, Fashion Stylist, Exhibition Designer, or Freelance Visual Designer. Students in this major may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree Program upon completion of the AA Degree Program.
Advanced Study in Entertainment Set Design & Decoration
Back to topSet the stage for action, adventure, romance, and comedy. From the classroom of an Upper East Side private school to a pool house in Southern California, the sets created for movies, plays, and television spark the imagination. Set Designers and Decorators bring life to the characters and plot by coordinating everything on a film or television set or stage. This program meets the needs of students entering the entertainment industry. The applied learner-centered program involves the students in creative problem-solving, best practices, hands-on experience, special effects, set design, and model building. Courses include:
- Film History & Development
- Perspective Sketching
- Production & Set Design
- Set Decorating
- Essentials of Film Production
Some of the careers students can pursue after completing this program include: Production Designer, Art Director, Set Decorator, Set Buyer, Set Designer or Art Department Coordinator
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