Current Program

Fashion apparel is one of the largest segments of manufacturing and retailing in southern California. Fashion Merchandising is the planning, organizing and supervision of apparel manufacturing, retailing, communication, display and product development. The Fashion Merchandising program is designed to provide specialized training in predicting and recognizing trends in fashion, consumer demand, retail and wholesale. Students enroll in the program to meet requirements for transfer to a four-year institution, to obtain a degree or certificate, or for retraining and upgrading employment skills. In recent years, several factors have led to changes in course offerings, including changes in the general perception of fashion and business, population changes, changes in students' basic skill levels, changes in technology and the increasing use of technology in the workplace and in the classroom, and changes in the economy.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Completion are offered in Fashion Merchandising. Skills Certificates are offered in Fashion Promotion and Retail Fashion Management.

Personnel - At this time the program employs one full-time faculty member and one part-time faculty member.

Teaching Methodologies - Lecture is the most often used teaching method in the program, although lecture/demonstration, large lecture/study groups, case studies and some computerized instruction also are used.

Technology - Some computerized and online research tools are used in particular classes.

Equipment - No particular equipment needs have been identified at this time.

Facilities - The wiring in the "D" Building is insufficient. The condition of facilities at this time is good.

Future Program

The program will need to adapt to changing conditions in the next ten years, including changes in technology, curriculum development, recruitment strategies, and student academic preparation. It is expected that enrollment in Fashion Merchandising will increase at the same rate as college enrollment as a whole, as more students become interested in entrepreneurial businesses. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No additional degrees or certificates are planned

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - In the future more technologically-oriented and supported methods will be used.

Technology - Alternative deliver systems such as online courses, interactive video and other methods of distance learning will likely become a significant part of program offerings.

Equipment - Within five years, laptop computers, projectors and electronic whiteboards will be needed to support the new technology available in the classroom.

Facilities - Two permanent large lecture rooms are needed, as is one large office with room for two faculty and one small office with bookcases.

Staff Development - Training in technology, teaching methodologies and new educational developments would benefit faculty.