Retail Merchandising BS

Retail students and professionals planning at a table
Program Details

Holistic and intersectional experience
As one of the few retail programs in the nation housed within a design college, our students gain a unique design perspective that sets them apart. You will learn about the impact of design throughout the retail process—from the design of products and services to distribution systems, selling spaces, and methods for recycling and disposal. With our creative curriculum, you will combine your creative talent with strategic business practices and engage in interdisciplinary activities facilitated through our collaboration with the Carlson School of Management.

Personalized study
Whether your interests lean more towards design or business, our flexible curriculum will give you a personalized and fulfilling academic experience. As you progress through your degree, you will have the option to customize your area of study by exploring specialty areas. You will be able to select courses that fit your academic and personal goals, such as visual merchandising, buying, consumer behavior and research, global fashion retailing, and product development.

Career possibilities
Required Internship

The required internship provides you with an opportunity to cultivate your network and gain challenging career experience under supervision in a retail setting. You may complete your internship at any approved US or international company during fall, spring, or summer term.

Regardless of where or when your internship takes place, you are expected to put classroom knowledge into practice and maximize your professional development. For this reason your internship cannot be a continuation of present work, although it may be acceptable to pursue a more rigorous role to one you have held prior.

Learn more about the retail merchandising required internship

Learning Abroad
The Temple of Apollo in Sicily, Italy

With a range of learning abroad programs available, you will have ample opportunities to develop a worldwide view of retailing. Study, research, and internship experiences are available at prestigious institutions in cities such as Buenos Aires, Shanghai, or Barcelona. This international exposure provides a rich context to guide your success and leadership in the field.

You may also participate in the annual National Retail Federation Student Program in New York City alongside apparel design, College of Liberal Arts, and Carlson School of Management students. This trip offers a unique opportunity for you to meet and connect with retail industry leaders, hear from CEOs and senior executives, network with global recruiters, and familiarize yourself with the latest innovations in retail technology.

More Learning Abroad

Apply Now

The centralized online application will guide you through the necessary materials and steps.