Earn your associate degree in fashion merchandising, and design a successful career

If you have an eye for color and texture, an appreciation for fashion, and a knack for marketing, consider earning a degree in fashion merchandising. By doing so, you can jump-start a fascinating career in this dynamic field, which brings in more than 250 million dollars a year and employs more than four million people.

Why Fashion Merchandising?

While many people considering an associate's degree in fashion merchandising are drawn to the glamour associated with the fashion industry, most discover the field is a creative as rewarding outlet for their artistic sensibilities. Still others are attracted to the business-end of the industry, like the thrill of discovering a new designer or developing a successful marketing program for a type of product.

Those who earn an associate's degree in fashion merchandising may find they have their choice of careers after graduation. Fashion designers study fashion trends, sketch designs of clothing and accessories, select colors and fabrics, and oversee the final production of their designs.

Others may find a niche in retail sales, retail management, or marketing. These careers require strong sales and communication skills in order to find buyers for the designers' products.

Most employers require at least a two-year fashion merchandising degree, and companies often look for employees with creative flair and an innate sense of what's fashionable. So, those with a fashion merchandising degree with a background in art, design, and fashion history may find they have a leg-up on the competition.

Top Careers and Expected Earnings

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), competition for jobs in the fashion industry is typically very keen because so many people are attracted to the industry. Still, job opportunities for fashion designers is expected to grow by one percent in coming year as demand for stylish, affordable clothing increases. Jobs in so-called "cut and sew manufacturing" is declining, however, as more jobs go overseas.

Here's a look at some top careers in fashion merchandising and corresponding May 2009 mean annual salaries, according to the BLS:

• Fashion designers: $74,410
• Tailors: $28,300
• Retail Salespersons: $24,630
• Retail Managers: $39,130

Although no national certifications are necessary to enter the field, The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits about 300 institutions with programs in art and design.

Earning an Online Associate's Degree in Fashion Merchandising

Earning a two-year online associate's degree in fashion merchandising makes sense for many students because online learning allows students to work at their own pace and still earn a paycheck at their current jobs. Online classes also offer students the opportunity to interact with professors and fellow students through online chats and e-mail.

Students entering the field of fashion merchandising typically study:

• Fashion history
• Computer design
• Sewing
• Tailoring and pattern making
• Colors and textiles

  Hands-on training is crucial in the field of fashion merchandising, since many employers seek candidates who need little in-house training. Many who work in the fashion industry find that, as they gain experience and a portfolio of work, they can command higher salaries.

  To fund your education, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn your federal funding options. In addition, The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) offers scholarships to qualified fashion merchandising students.

  An associate's degree in fashion merchandising can put you on the fast-track to an exciting fashion career. And, online learning can make your education even more accessible. So, if you've always dreamed of sitting front row at Fashion Week or designing the latest trends, don't sit back and wait--

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