Overview
The Master of Science in Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design degree will help you gain the skills needed to succeed in an advanced career within this dynamic industry. This degree, which is offered in either a thesis or non-thesis option, affords you the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas, including fashion business, textile science, and the nationally recognized textile and apparel conservation, history, and exhibition program.
Rigorous course work combining qualitative and quantitative research coupled with experiential learning will expand your knowledge and practical skill set. URI’s library archive of over 40,000 commercial patterns as well as the department’s Historic Textile and Costume Collection of some 20,000 items—one of the best university collections in the country—serve as outstanding resources for hands-on learning.
The Department of Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design is endorsed by the American Apparel and Footwear Association.
Specializations
Textile Science
This specialization offers hands-on learning experience using the most modern equipment for filament production from waste, 3D polyjet printer that can print on fabrics, and a moisture measurement tester that evaluates and classifies liquid management properties of fabrics. We also offer dyeing and finishing, color science, and quality control of textiles. Possibilities exist for cooperation with the College of Engineering. Together, we can design, produce, and test your own smart textile!
Historic Fashion and Textiles, Textile Conservation, and Cultural Analysis
In this specialization you will develop curatorial, conservation, and research skills under the guidance of nationally known experts. Internships in museums, historical societies, and textile conservation labs are integral to this specialization. The department’s Historic Textile and Costume Collection of some 20,000 items, one of the best university collections in the country, is an outstanding resource for students. URI’s Library also houses a Commercial Pattern Archive of more than 40,000 paper patterns.
Fashion Merchandising
This specialization emphasizes the business perspectives of fashion and offers advanced comprehensive study in fashion business, including retailing, merchandising, marketing, and consumer behavior. As part of the College of Business, we teach you the knowledge and skills to position yourself as a dynamic leader within the fashion and apparel industry. Coursework in retailing, marketing, merchandising, forecasting, and management will help prepare you to critically analyze current concerns of the fashion industry, such as improving consumer well-being, sustainability and achieving sustainable development goals. As a part of this curriculum, you will have the opportunity to learn from, and network with, expert industry organizations, including AATCC, Cotton Incorporated, and ESRAP. Unique experiential learning opportunities in New York City as well as study abroad opportunities provide exposure to the fashion and apparel world.