The study of fashion design and production balances students’ creative vision with technical skills and an in-depth understanding of the fashion industry. They can prepare for a professional career in apparel design, marketing, manufacturing, and product development.

When students pursue Bachelor of Fine Arts - Fashion Design, they will develop a wide range of skills and knowledge: advanced fashion design concepts such as computer-aided design (CAD), technical design and production, business in the fashion industry, public speaking and presentation, and contemporary fashion trends.

Students will utilize up-to-date software and fashion-forward techniques to develop a strong and comprehensive portfolio of work. Juniors and seniors in the program develop full lines of clothing with opportunities to exhibit their collections at the annual CVPA Fashion Show, industry shows, and retail galleries.

Internships and networking opportunities help students make industry connections in Boston and New York, and graduates will be ready to compete successfully for jobs throughout the fashion industry.

The BFA is a professional degree with concentrated areas of specialization, so students will take more art courses than they would in a BA program. At University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, students also have the advantages of a university education where they can diversify their studies and expand their career opportunities. Their BFA degree also provides excellent preparation for MFA programs and other graduate study.