Northern Arizona University's School of Communication offers one of the most unique four- year programs in merchandising in the western United States. Students preparing to work in the textile, apparel, accessory, cosmetic, retail and related industries have the opportunity to study all of the activities involved in merchandising products and services in addition to obtaining a solid foundation in communication skills. Merchandising encompasses all of the activities necessary to have the right merchandise at the right time, in the right quantities, at the right price to meet customer satisfaction. Classes in the merchandising program help students gain competence in analyzing products and consumer demand; buying and presenting merchandise through a variety of retail outlets; and preparing advertising, promotional and special event campaigns to promote sales of products to consumers. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Merchandising.
Career Opportunities
Merchandising graduates prepare for careers in the textile, apparel, accessory, cosmetic and retail industries, which include potential positions in buying, merchandising, management, fashion forecasting, fashion coordination, promotional writing, selling, visual merchandising, advertising or entrepreneurship. Employment opportunities are available with designers, textile producers, apparel manufacturers, retailers, consumer publications, trade publications, advertising agencies and market centers.
Student Organization:
Northern Arizona Merchandising Association (NAMA) is a student society created for the advancement of professionalism in the merchandising program. Students meet with professionals in the field, participate in field trips and sponsor fund-raising events. Trips have included visits to design houses, major retailers, fashion publications, fashion forecasters, museums and major market centers. Previously students have traveled to MAGIC, the men's apparel trade show held in Las Vegas, Dallas Apparel Mart and New York City.
Scholarships:
Students enrolled in the Merchandising program are eligible for several School of Communication and Northern Arizona University scholarships. They are also eligible for the Fashion Show and Promotion Scholarship, a scholarship created from profits earned from hands-on class projects.
Study Abroad:
Students are eligible for a variety of study abroad programs through the International Studies Office.
Additional Information
Major Specific Information:
NAU
Box 5619
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5619
Telephone: (928) 523-6178
Email: Judith.Everett@nau.edu
