This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Learn more.
Our bachelor’s degree in apparel design explores the foundations of outstanding clothing design and the fundamentals of business in this industry. As a student, you will develop skills in the design and construction of apparel using various techniques such as flat pattern, draping, computer-aided design, fashion illustration, and textile properties. Your course of study—which will be hands-on, filled with practical assignments, and taught by outstanding faculty in small class sizes—empowers you to pursue a variety of challenging and rewarding career paths within the fashion industry.
Major Requirements
As an apparel design major, you will combine classes from the University Core Curriculum with a unique curriculum that will prepare you for a variety of challenging careers in the apparel industry.
Ball State's collection of over 4,000 pieces of men's and women's apparel dating back to the 18th century began in 1930 and continues today. The Beeman Collection provides students the opportunity to physically interact with historic and rare pieces. See photos.
Credits
Total: 120
Classes You Will Take
A few of the classes you will take include:
- Elementary Microeconomics
- Dimensions of Clothing
- Fundamentals of Apparel Construction
- Fashion Illustration
- Textiles for Apparel
View Degree Plan (PDF)
For a complete list of all courses and their descriptions, please see our Course Catalog.
VIew Catalog
What Can You Do with a Degree in Apparel Design?
Graduates of our apparel design program find many opportunities for rewarding careers in the global fashion marketplace.
Common job titles include:
- illustrator
- pattern maker
- textile designer
- fabric and notions buyer
- sample maker
- apparel manufacturers’ manager
- sewer
- retail custom clothier
Paying for Your Education
College Scholarships
About four of every five students receive some kind of merit- or need-based assistance with their tuition and fees. On top of the dozens of options our university offers its students, Miller College of Business gives several awards every year to its own students. Learn more.
Ready to Apply?
Are you interested in our program? Then it's time to apply.
Apply Now
Want to Learn More?
Place matters, and that is particularly true on our beautiful campus—our size, our people, our culture, and our amenities. Come see it for yourself by scheduling a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Or if you'd rather speak directly to someone in our department, feel free to call or email us.
Visit Campus Contact Us