AA Fashion Design, Merchandising, and Media - Accessory Design and Technology

Program Description

AUF’s Associate of Arts Degree in Fashion Design, Merchandising and Media is comprised of a combination of courses that focus on the four available program concentrations:
- Fashion Design and Technology
- Accessory Design and Technology
- Fashion Merchandising, Marketing, and Retail
- Fashion Communication, Promotion, and Media

Program Objectives

This program is designed to shape highly qualified professionals through a hybrid approach of a rigorous academic component and hands-on teaching techniques.
- The goal is to develop skills for future careers in fashion with roots stemming from the creative tradition of artisanal arts and industry presence in Italy.
- By stimulating creative craftsmanship and know-how, students integrate fashion practices and knowledge with contemporary perspectives, mentored by international faculty members that directly represent the industry.

General Education Requirements

All AA candidates are required to complete 21 gen ed credits in the areas of English Composition, Humanities, Mathematics, Physical and Biological Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Diversity and Intercultural Studies, and Italian language. Requirements vary according to the program. Some requirements are embedded in multiple courses, and certain programs may require additional credits to complete the associate-level program of study, as defined in the individual program curriculum.
Program Outcomes

The specialization in Accessory Design and Technology focuses on developing:
- Design competency from the creation and interpretation of a creative concept into an effective accessory collection.
- Competitive skills in prototyping handbags, hats and footwear enhanced by quality-driven production and merchandising.

Career Opportunities

Accessory Design and Technology: senior designers in charge of the design and production phases of accessory collections for diverse markets.