Fashion Product Development (MFA)
Fashion Product Development (MFA)
The Fashion Product Development MFA focuses on developing and managing all aspects of the fashion product development process. Emphasis will be placed on aesthetics, design, and product development strategies specific to companies and their target markets. Students will create product concept and lines based on their in-depth market and trend research, textile and raw material sourcing strategies, manufacturing strategies and shipping logistics to deliver finished products to stores and consumers. Students will learn the drawing, design, construction, technical, and industry standard software skills. Students will apply all of these skills to create a culminating thesis project that includes a complete product line and an implementation strategy. MFA Graduates will be capable of launching a new product line and applying high level strategic thinking to hold key positions in global fashion organizations.
AA BFAMaster of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree
Available Online
Major Classes
Unit Requirements
| Major Coursework | Units |
|---|---|
| Major Coursework | 30 |
| Directed Study | 18 |
| Electives | 6 |
| Graduate Liberal Arts | 9 |
| Total | 63 |
Degree Requirements
MFA FASHION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
- Successful completion of Final Thesis Project.
- Minimum grade of C in all required 63 units.
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirements:
1 Art Historical Awareness & Aesthetic Sensitivity course
1 Cross Cultural Understanding course
Additional Information
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:
MFA Thesis Project
- Present an original thesis concept worthy of the MFA degree
- Demonstrate the feasibility of their thesis project
Product Development
- Create a body of work that will be built into a portfolio, representing an advanced level of achievement and targeted to a specific market segment
- Analyze fashion and market trends to apply to specific target consumer and brands
- Design and develop complete lines of fashion products demonstrating high level aesthetics and design skills using both traditional medium and computer software
- Correctly identify key points in the supply chain and demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between its members
- Develop comprehensive sourcing, costing and pricing strategies for targeted markets
- Visual Communication: Produce accurate and detailed technical drawings and flat patterns using both traditional medium and computer software
- Professionalism: Communicate professionally and effectively through written, visual and oral presentations using industry standard software
Collaborative Skills
- Collaborate effectively to produce creative projects
Professional Practices
- Create a relevant and original portfolio and collateral materials which can be used to market themselves to the industry
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:
- Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
- Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
- Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
- Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
- Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
- Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
- Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
- Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs as well as collaborative, civic and pro bono projects.
*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu
