The fashion merchandising specialization offers in-depth study of the process of planning, negotiating, acquiring, selling and evaluating merchandise throughout the distribution channel. It is designed for students interested in product sales careers at the wholesale or retail level. Students acquire knowledge of merchandise, sales techniques, and trends in the market place and customer service. This specialization assumes a global perspective and is complemented by business courses to allow for career flexibility. In addition to knowledge of the fashion industry, students are encouraged to develop a background and related skills in art, marketing, or management. Because fashion production takes place worldwide, developing and/or enhancing writing and speaking skills in a second language such as Spanish, French, or Chinese is also encouraged.<br><br>Courses provide instruction to students in all aspects of fashion product sales from product conception, sales floor visual merchandising plans, seasonal sales plan, and promotional campaigns. All courses include analytical skills necessary to interpret sales data and consumer behaviors. Fashion merchandising students are required to gain on-the-job work experience for course credit.