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2019 - 2020 Academic Catalog

Fashion Media and Marketing

Through application of Lasell's Connected Learning philosophy, Fashion students have ongoing opportunities to apply theoretical concepts through industry-oriented assignments and by working in the field with recognized leaders in the fashion industry. The upper-level professional courses are oriented toward a critical thinking and decision-making environment that graduates will face when making the transition from college to middle and upper-management positions. Students learn how to plan strategically, organize for profitability, and cultivate creativity. These elements of learning are carefully woven together, and additionally include student engagement in community service-learning projects and a focus on social responsibility.

Fashion Media and Marketing students are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the fashion industry's application of various forms of communication through multi-media platforms and related technologies. The Senior capstone course connects the knowledge accumulated throughout the program with an actual industry challenge, working directly with a leading fashion company. Through industry internships, the students' knowledge becomes grounded in best practices and valuable networking opportunities. Fashion Media and Marketing graduates are well-positioned for leadership in careers as social media coordinators, branding and consumer engagement specialists, stylists, e-commerce content developers, journalists, bloggers, public relations professionals, and visual merchandisers for a variety of product categories and companies. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fashion Media and Marketing .

The following goals and associated learning outcomes delineate what we strive for students to achieve when they complete a major program of study in Fashion:

Goal 1: Professional Attitudes and Skills 
Upon completion of a major program of study in Fashion, students will be able to: 
1.     exhibit professional engagement and behavior.  
2.     develop and implement a path toward a professional career.  
3.     utilize collaborative skills in a diverse marketplace. 
4.     exercise leadership capabilities in multi-role scenarios. 
5.     demonstrate the ability to constructively critique and self-reflect.  

 Goal 2: Application of Business Practices Relevant to the Contemporary Global Fashion Industry 
Upon completion of a major program of study in Fashion, students will be able to: 
1.     demonstrate a readiness to build upon discipline-specific technology.  
2.     apply theoretical concepts for effective planning and problem solving. 
3.     interpret visual elements of design demonstrating aesthetic literacy. 
4.     research the historical and contemporary industry drivers as they pertain to the global business landscape.   

Goal 3: Social Awareness 
Upon completion of a major program of study in Fashion, students will be able to: 
1.     apply appropriate strategies regarding teamwork to create goodwill and trust.   
2.     evaluate and employ sustainable environmental, social, and economic practices in the global environment. 
3.     implement moral and ethical business practices. 
4.     identify and interpret historical and contemporary zeitgeist in relationship to global fashion.     

Goal 4: Effective Communication 
Upon completion of a major program of study in Fashion, students will be able to: 
1.     utilize professional interpersonal communication skills effectively toward networking and relationship-building.   
2.     employ applicable research strategies to develop informed oral and written communication. 
3.     demonstrate proficiency in the application of appropriate visual communication skills to project criteria and goals.  
4.     Apply technology skillfully to present innovative ideas and concepts.   

Goal 5: Critical Thinking
Upon completion of a major program of study in Fashion, students will be able to: 
1.     raise vital questions and problems, formulating them clearly and precisely. 
2.     gather and assess relevant information. 
3.     come to well-reasoned conclusions and solutions. 
4.     think open-mindedly within alternative systems of thought. 
5.     communicate effectively with others in finding solutions to complex problems.       

ARTS126 - Fundamentals of Visual Art (KP)

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and strategies for visual art-making and art appreciation, with an emphasis on developing an awareness and sensitivity to art as an integral part of one's life and as a way to complement one's aesthetic needs. This is a lecture course with studio art-making modules designed to complement visual material, critical essays, museum/gallery trips and impart basic skills in visual communication.

BUSS220 - Principles of Marketing

In this course, the fundamentals of marketing are explored for practical application in today's business environment. The process of creating value for customers by utilizing the tools of marketing -- market segmentation, targeting and positioning, marketing research and communications, product development, channels of distribution, and pricing -- are explored with a project-based, interactive approach. Additionally, there is a service learning component included in this course that enables students to further apply the course concepts while working to advance a participating non-profit organization. Prerequisites: BUSS101, HEM101, HEM102, FASH101, or SMGT102 AND ENG102 OR WRT102.

COM101 - Understanding Mass Media

This course surveys the theories, history, economics, audience, and regulations of the major forms of mass media, including newspapers, magazines, motion pictures, radio, television, and new electronic communication. Students develop a basic understanding of the roles of mass media and their effects on society and the individual. The course focuses on the relationship between mass media and society, so students can identify current trends that are changing the nature and function of traditional mass communication. Students examine and debate many current controversial issues concerning the mass media and their effects on our society and culture. Students discuss significant aspects of mass communication, including ethics and policy formulation that are playing key roles in the materialization of a new global communication era.

COM208 - Public Relations

In this course, students explore the evolution, theoretical basis for, and practice of professional Public Relations. Students review the history and current practices of Public Relations and examine the differences between: PR and advertising; press relations and public affairs; promotions and news events; marketing and media placements. Students gain insights into the Public Relations function for corporations, high tech companies, government agencies, politics, education, the entertainment industry, sports, and non-profit institutions. Lectures, case studies, readings, group work, guest speakers, and class discussions focus on techniques useful in such areas as local and national publicity, special events, and community and government relations for organizations. Prerequisite: COM 101.

COM209 - Journalism

In this course, students learn reporting and writing techniques necessary to produce a variety of types of articles and multi-media stories. Assignments may include politics, sports, fashion, and entertainment based interviews. There is discussion of roles of reporters, columnists, editorial writers, editors, photographers, graphic designers and digital content producers in the daily process of journalism as decisions are made in the news­room as to what stories to cover; what stories, photographs and video clips to publish or broadcast. Students have the opportunity to publish their work in the campus newspaper, The 1851 Chronicle or on the 1851 Chroncile website. Prerequisite: ENG 102.

FASH101 - The Business of Fashion

This survey course takes an interdisciplinary approach to the fashion business as it relates to cultural, historic, economic, and contemporary influences, giving students a basic understanding of the terms and concepts associated with the fashion and retail industries. The concepts and practices developed are equally applicable to the many career paths possible within the Fashion Industry. Topics include: technological applications, environmental influences on fashion; the fashion cycle; trend forecasting; fashion marketing; women's, men's, and children's apparel; supply chain management; product development, foreign and domestic market centers; and retail merchandising on multiple platforms.

FASH102 - The Fashion Consumer

This course examines the psychological and sociological variables that shape the fashion consumer’s decision-making process. The wants and needs of consumers will be explored through an understanding of attitudes, and purchase motivation. Students will consider internal and external influencing factors, including the influence of social media and technology, the potential impact of government regulation, the consumer’s perception of self, and their perceived social and ethical responsibilities. The goal of building a strategy towards a satisfied and loyal customer will be at the heart of the conversation.

FASH105 - Excel for the Industry

Microsoft Excel is the foundation of business analytical software and has become the number one required skill for industry professionals. This course will introduce basic spreadsheet functions such as; formatting, data entry, pivot tables and analytical graphical display. Projects will directly reflect best industry practices. Students will apply developed skills to projects throughout the fashion curriculum.

FASH200 - Fash Hist I:Imperial Societies to Indust

This course surveys the history of prevailing dress from Ancient Egypt into the nineteenth century, expanding upon a general understanding of shifting modes to examine the symbolism of fashion from extensive perspectives. Students will develop a context for fashion and its relation to aesthetic expression and function within various societies over time. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students will examine a range of scholarly resources that pertain to the field, including The Lasell Fashion Collection. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: ENG 102/WRT102, or permission of instructor.

FASH207 - Digital Tools for Fashion

Technical skills are becoming more and more a required proficiency in all capacities of the fashion industry. This course introduces Fashion & Retail Merchandising and Fashion Communication & Promotion students to software prominently used for apparel manufacturing, retail and media. With a focus on methods of visual communication, projects include technical drawing, colorization, editing, and integration and manipulation of photographic images.

FASH210 - Textiles

This course introduces the study of textiles through exploration of the production of fibers and methods of creating fabrics. Students learn to identify fiber content, properties and various types of weaving and knitting applications. Other topics include the study of fiber characteristics, quality and care of fabric finishes, and a practical assessment of fabrics in relationship to particular end uses.

FASH219 - Fash Industry Professional Development

This course is designed to prepare students for the professional work environment through researching career opportunities and identifying the qualifications necessary to be competitive. Students reflect on personal abilities and characteristics, which will help them to be successful and create a plan to acquire skills they may not already have. They will design a personal digital portfolio including resume, cover letter, and biographical statement, and will begin to build a professional network through LinkedIn. The course also explores career development and professional strategies, designed to prepare students for their required internship in senior year. Prerequisites: FASH102

FASH307 - Fashion Brand Management

This course introduces concepts related to fashion branding and brand recognition achieved by engagement of brand management theory; essentially the notion that perceived value or equity of a fashion brand can be increased through advertising, marketing, thematic control and integrated marketing communications. This creates a promise of style, perceived value and product quality that translates into brand loyalty. The course considers influences such as social media, iconic brand ambassadors, cultural branding and Omni-channel communications. The course also builds skills, which lead to creation of brand strategy, ethos and the ability to re-tool a brand when it saturates the marketplace. The brand management process will be discussed from inception to consumption and analyzed through contemporary case studies. Prerequisites: BUSS220 & Jr Standing

FASH308 - Fashion Show Production

This course focuses on development of a working knowledge of planning, management, and organizational skills required to produce successful fashion shows. Hands-on experiences throughout the semester address the importance of teamwork, communication, and professionalism demanded in the fashion industry. Students plan, organize, and produce the annual fashion show as final project. Prerequisite: FASH 211 or FASM218

FASH315 - Trend Forecasting

This course introduces students to theories and framework used to explain and predict fashion change. Course includes field trips to trade shows, museum visits , and presentations by industry professionals to help students understand the relationship of economic, artistic, technological, social and cultural influences to fashion change.Students apply creative ,research, and analytical skills to plan and develop a trend forecast. Prerequisite: FASH200

FASH415 - Internship

The internship field assignment provides students with hands-on experience in the business of fashion, applying classroom theory to the professional work environment. Objectives for the field assignment include: (1) exposure to major components of the fashion company’s operation, (2) first-hand experience in the professional working environment, and, (3) acquisition of professional skills required for this ever-changing fashion industry. The student completes a journal, analyzes the internship company and processes, and receives feedback and evaluation from the internship site supervisor. A minimum of 150 hours of supervised onsite work is required. Collaborative experience affords students capability to maximize opportunities and explore career path options while receiving four academic credits Prerequisites: FASH219 & FASH207 or FASD220

FASH427 - Fash Com & Merchandising Capstone

enior merchandising and fashion communication students will formulate a comprehensive strategic plan for a “live company” with the end result as a presentation to a senior industry executive within the company. The project will involve the study of market conditions and trend analysis, a promotional strategy, product suggestions, the proposal of strategic options for launch on the new initiative and benchmarks to measure feasibility and success. This course will utilize critical thinking and analytical skills, together with technological insight and professional judgement gained thoughout the program to collaborate in a corporate setting.Prerquisite: FASH415, may be taken concurrently

FASM218 - Fashion Content Development

This course examines common communication strategies used in the fashion industry. Students analyze the different channels of holistic and brand centered communication. This includes maintaining consistency through various marketing venues, messaging through traditional and new media channels such as social media. Students will develop creative plans in all areas of content including a basic understanding of video use. Guest speakers, connected learning projects, and field trips facilitate the transfer of theory into practice, providing the student with a platform for developing a viable body of work related to fashion communication. Students will also leave the course with industry certification from Hubspot Academy. Prerequisites: WRT102, COM 101 and FASH 101.

FASM306 - Fashion Styling & Photography

Fashion Photo Styling is designed to provide fashion designers, stylists, and merchandisers with an understanding of the conventions and visual traditions of fashion photography. The principles of lighting are discussed particularly as it relates to the creation of mood and image. An exploration of the history of fashion photography familiarizes students with its various visual traditions and styles. The relationship between marketing principles and the determination of style in the context of image usage are explored. Regular photo shoots provide students with hands-on experience of image creation. Prerequisite: FASH207 or FASD205

FASM310 - Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing is a comprehensive course that concentrates on marketing within the virtual world. With a strong focus on the operational and functional aspects of this dynamic subject, the course will review tactical advice and real life examples. The course will cover key topics such as search engine optimization and marketing, retargeting, social media marketing, email marketing, lead generation and calls to action, online experiential marketing and consumer behavior in the virtual world. Students will also be introduced to the history of the internet and fundamentals of an effective digital presence. Students will discuss digital business models and learn the basics of app and website functionality and cross channel promotions. Developing strategies to create apps, websites, and virtual or augmented reality customer experiences will offer a contemporary and visionary opportunity. Integrating skills obtained in FASH207- Digital Tools, students will be fully immersed in the creation of their own fashion digital shopping channels. Prerequisite: FASH105, FASH207 & FASM218

FASM411 - Social and Mobile Strategies

This course is in response to feedback from the SOF advisory board and industry contacts in fashion journalism regarding the need for brand promoters to report digital content from the field, using video and written content generated using mobile applications. Prerequisite: FASM310

FASM412 - Editorial Fashion Production

This course prepares students to produce editorial fashion content within the current media ecosystem. With a focus on fashion media; including art direction, layout, copy editing, and video development. Students will also explore crafting content for both hardcopy and online as well as translating that into multi-platform marketing (Youtube, Instagram, etc.).Outcomes-Art direction, layouts, copyediting, layout, 3d visuals, video development and editing samples suitable for the student’s e-portfolioPrerequisite: FASH315

GRAP308 - Interactive & UX Design

This course offers a deeper exploration of designing and authoring interactive content on a variety of platforms with an emphasis on user experience (UX), building upon skills and strategies acquired in basic web design and graphic design courses. Students will use designer tools such as Adobe Animate and Adobe XD, which offer designers the opportunity to create code-based interactions with minimal knowledge of programming languages, such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and proprietary app building languages and workflows. Prerequisite: GRAP207 Web Design and Development and GRAP105 Digital Design Essentials or equivalent.

MATH116 - Merchandising and Financial Mathematics

This course focuses on retail mathematics. Topics include simple and compound interest, the time-value of capital, annuities, amortization, sinking funds, bond and investment, business problem-solving and decision making. Other topics include profit, loss, and break-even analysis, pricing, inventory, and merchandise planning. The course introduces basic theories of statistics. Prerequisite: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or through placement testing.

MATH208 - Statistics

This is an introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include: data analysis, and graphical methods of describing data, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression analysis. Prerequisites: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing and ENG 102.

BUSS341 - Social Media Marketing

This course takes an in-depth look at social networks, social media platforms and online advertising to offer students an advantage in many positions involving marketing, consulting and brand management, both on the buyer and seller side of social media. Students with an interest in entrepreneurship will also find the course useful as new businesses often rely on social media marketing. The course covers a number of topics including the differences and interaction between traditional and social media; two-sided markets and social media platforms (including verticals such as gaming, shopping and entertainment); basic theory of social networks online and offline (graph theory, sociology, information diffusion); consumer behavior and digital media; social media analytics and monitoring; brand strategies on social media; best marketing practices for paid and unpaid social media; and B2B marketing and social media. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to become Hubspot certified. Prerequisite: BUSS220

FASH407 - Digital Commerce & Analytics

Digital Commerce is today’s fastest growing business model in the retail industry. This course will prepare students to understand the underpinnings of both the front and back end of e-commerce website and app development, the digital consumer and their behaviors, UX design (user experience) and the end-to-end shopping journey from home page to shopping cart. Students will analyze the impact of e-commerce on business models and strategy as well as the infrastructure of these operations. The course will also review retail analytics with an emphasis on both qualitative and quantitative analysis used to track behavior and conversion. Students will apply critical thinking skills to assess web and app functionality, ease of navigation, and ways to engage the consumer in the virtual world. Prerequisite: MATH208, FASH211 & FASH105