Fashion Media and Marketing Major Degree

The Fashion Media and Marketing major prepares you for all aspects of professional fashion story-telling, from content development to complex multi-media strategies. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of communication in the fashion industry using diverse approaches, platforms, channels, and technologies.

Program Features

Earn industry-recognized certificates as part of your coursework through HubSpot and Google Academy.
Gain professional experience through internships at places like New Balance, TESstylist, and NewStore among many others.
Travel to NYC to visit fashion offices and showrooms.
Study abroad with international fashion institutions in programs like Fashion in Paris.
Volunteer and work in local fashion events, like Boston Fashion Week.
Learn from experienced faculty, opening doors to the industry.
Partner with a company through the Senior Capstone to develop and pitch strategic business solutions to executives. Partners have included Wayfair, Sperry, Timberland, Puma, and Reebok.

What You'll Learn

From your first day, you’ll take courses in your major and advance towards graduation with a yearly plan. Not sure what classes to take? We’ll help you create the perfect plan.

Courses and Sample 4-Year Plan

Year 1

This example four-year plan is provided as a broad framework that you can follow in order to complete your degree within four years. Be sure to always consult your academic advisor before registering for classes.

FASH101

The Business of Fashion

The Business of Fashion is a survey course that 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 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.

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.

WRT101

Writing I

In this course, students gain understanding of and confidence in strategies for effective writing by composing and reading in a variety of genres. The course emphasizes writing as a process and focuses on the rhetorical choices writers make. Students engage critically with sources by examining how genre, context, purpose, credibility, and bias work together to create meaning and impact audiences. Students who choose to take Writing I Workshop are provided with time during class to work on their writing while the instructor and a writing tutor are present to provide assistance. Students must earn a “C” or higher in order to pass this course

FYS103

First Year Seminar

The First Year Seminar (FYS) is part of the Core Curriculum and a requirement for all incoming first year students and transfer students with fewer than 15 credits. The First Year Seminar is a theme-based inquiry course that engages students in a specific area of interest while providing support for a smooth transition into the Lasell University community and the Connected Learning philosophy. Through studying an academic topic, students develop and apply core intellectual skills and receive an introduction to the core knowledge perspectives. At the same time, students connect to the experiences and people that make up the Lasell University Community. Course outcomes are accomplished through engaging activities including reading, writing, class discussions, presentations, team projects, field trips, and exploration of campus resources. Civic engagement and service-learning activities are often part of this course as is participation in the Connected Learning Symposium. Through the seminar, students develop close ties with faculty and peer mentors who serve as advocates for first year students' academic success. Past course titles have included: The Immigrant Experience, Fashion & Film of the 20th Century, The Social History of Rock & Roll, Exploring Cultures & Languages, The Spark of Creativity, Women and Sports, and Latin America: Food And Traditions. This requirement may be fulfilled by taking either FYS103 or HON101 (for students enrolled in the Honors Program).

MATH106

Mathematical Reasoning

This course is the foundational course for mathematical and quantitative reasoning at Lasell College. Mathematical reasoning is the critical skill that enables a student to solve real-world problems involving quantitative analysis by making use of particular mathematical skills. Through the development of their mathematical reasoning skills, students will recognize the power of mathematics in its own right as well as its relevance in the real world. Students will develop and enhance their mathematical reasoning skills through a project/application-based curriculum supported by readily available current technological tools and topics that will include, but not be limited to, the following: solving systems of equations, linear programming, statistical, and graphical data analysis.

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.

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.

WRT102

Writing II

This course is a continuation of Writing I and focuses on research and public writing. Theme-based courses provide students with lenses to explore issues of interest and develop their reading, research, and writing skills. Students work with a topic of their choice, broadly based on the course theme. Assignments build upon each other, lead up to a researched position paper, and culminate in a public piece. Students who choose to take Writing II Workshop are provided with time during class to work on their writing while the instructor and a writing tutor are present to provide assistance. Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in order to pass this course. Prerequisite: WRT 101

SOC104X

Equity & Intersectionality(KP)

Equity & Intersectionality(KP)

FASH102

The Fashion Consumer

The Fashion Consumer examines the psychological and sociological variables that shape the fashion consumer’s decision-making process. The wants and needs of consumers are explored through an understanding of attitudes, and purchase motivation. Students 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 is at the heart of the conversation.

000

Elective or Minor Course

Choose an Elective or Minor course

Year 2

COM209

Journalism

Journalism is a fast changing industry and this course prepares students for the change. Students learn to report and produce a variety of news and feature pieces, for print and multi-media platforms, including Q and A interviews, news and feature stories, opinion pieces, reviews, photo galleries, social media campaigns and more. Assignments can be produced on sports, fashion, entertainment, arts and culture, business, politics and more. Students have the opportunity to publish their work in The 1851 Chronicle newspaper and website. Prerequisite: WRT102

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.

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, COM101, HEM101, HEM102, FASH101, or SMGT102 AND ENG102 or WRT102.

HIST104

World Civ II:

This Knowledge Perspective course will provide students with the opportunity to interpret and analyze the complex interrelationships and inequities in human societies in a global historical context. Emphasizing the interrelatedness and mutuality of influence between East and West, we examine questions of exclusiveness, intolerance, and cooperation. Prerequisite: ENG101 with a C or better

CHEM105

Chemistry of Fashion (KP)

This course examines the connections between chemistry and fashion. This course is a lab centered course where students will explore topics such as light and its’ properties; the nature of color; effects of environmental factors such as acids and bases, and oxidation on dyes; synthesis and use of dyes, paints, and pigments. The laboratory procedures apply chemical theory and techniques to learn the chemistry behind materials used in fashion. Students will use spectroscopy and other methods of chemical investigation to examine materials used in art and fashion. Students will conduct inquiry-based projects focusing on areas of interest.

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: COM101

FASH219

Fashion Industry Professional Development

Fashion Industry Professional Development is designed to prepare students for entering and building careers in the professional work environment. Students reflect and analyze both themselves and the industry to identify and develop a comprehensive plan for pursuing professional objectives. Students’ professional strategies yield specific, actionable plans and a suite of materials to prepare them for entering the job market. The final outcome is a personal branding suite, including traditional job application materials as well as a digital brand presence and portfolio of industry-relevant course outcomes. Professional communication skills are developed, including networking, job searching, and interviewing. Upon completion of the course, students demonstrate a preparedness for a required internship experience. Prerequisite: FASH102

FASH200

Fashion History I:Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution

Fashion History I: Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution surveys the history of prevailing dress and material culture 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 develop a context for fashion and its relation to aesthetic expression and function within various societies over time. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students examine a range of scholarly resources that pertain to the field, including The Lasell Fashion Collection. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: WRT102 or Permission of Instructor

FASH207

Digital Tools for Fashion

Digital Tools for Fashion equips students with the technical skills and understanding of how to use a variety of software applications, an increasingly in-demand skill in all capacities of the fashion industry. The course introduces students to software used in apparel manufacturing, retail, and media. With a focus on methods of visual communication, projects include technical drawing, colorization, editing, integration and manipulation of photographic images, and video editing basics.

MDSC203

Multidisciplinary Experience

In this project-based course, students explore a social or intellectual problem using at least two knowledge perspectives. Faculty and students follow a collaborative process of exploration, discussion, and problem solving that integrates knowledge perspectives and core intellectual skills.

000

Elective or Minor Course

Choose an Elective or Minor course

Year 3

FASH306

Fashion Styling for 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.

FASH307

Fashion Brand Management

Fashion Brand Management introduces students to the myriad of concepts associated with fashion branding and an analysis of brand management theory. Methods for building brand identity, awareness, recognition, loyalty, extensions, and equity are explored, including an examination of the impact of advertising, marketing, thematic control and integrated marketing communications on the perceived value of fashion brands. The course considers influences such as social media, iconic brand ambassadors, cultural branding, and omnichannel communications. Tactics and techniques for influencing brand perception and associations as well as developing a brand ethos and strategy are also covered. External environmental factors that influence brand and the branding process are studied. The brand management process is discussed from inception to consumption and analyzed through contemporary case studies. This course is writing-intensive. Prerequisite: FASH102

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.

FASH415

Fashion Industry Internship Seminar

Fashion Industry Internship Seminar is four-credits and includes a field placement and course. Fashion industry exposure and real-world experience is paramount to the fashion student. Supported with resources, students explore the job market to identify challenging, value-adding internship positions during which they gain practical, hands-on industry experience. On-the-job industry exposure is an opportunity to synthesize and apply concepts, theories, and techniques previously learned, both leveraging and adding to industry skill sets and knowledge. Internship experience and seminar learning outcomes include: (1) exposure to and strengthened command of industry dynamics and fashion business operations, (2) first-hand experience in the professional working environment, (3) acquisition of professional skills required for industry and career readiness, and (4) resume and professional network growth. Students complete self-reflection and critical analysis of the internship organization and experience, as well as receive feedback and evaluation from the internship site supervisor. A minimum of 150 hours of supervised onsite work is required and should be in an area of the industry aligned with students’ career objectives. Internship field placement is subject to the approval of the Internship Coordinator and the Lasell University application process and requirements outlined therein. Prerequisites: FASH219 & FASH207 or FASD220

000

Elective or Minor Course

Choose an Elective or Minor course

FASH315

Trend Forecasting and Analytics

Trend Forecasting and Analytics introduces students to theories, frameworks, and methodologies used to analyze and forecast fashion trends and change. Major macro themes that impact trends are explored, including cultural and societal issues and all elements of zeitgeist. The ability to recognize emerging trends and anticipate aesthetic preferences coupled with the aptitude to ground style intel in concrete numbers and analysis via sales and inventory level forecasts, market data, predictive analytics, and other tools prepares students for both the art and science of formulating a sound fashion forecast. Students also explore the applications, function, and purpose of forecasts within the fashion company. Prerequisite: FASH200, May Take Concurrently

FASH310

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 & FASH211 or FASH218

FASH303

Fashion History II:Modernity to Globalization

Modernity to Globalization explores the history of fashion as it moves from the nineteenth century into a new era, examining the aesthetic and sociocultural forces that have influenced the development of styles from modernity to globalization. Students use skills in critical thinking to understand fashion as an art form, a commodity, and a symbol of cultural and personal expression. Students explore how contemporary designers draw from and reinterpret fashions from across the twentieth century. Prerequisite: WRT102

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.

PHIL302

Ethical Reasoning

This course will address the interaction between the lives we lead and the application of traditional (and some nontraditional) ethical theories and principles to important decision points in our lives. Students will take on real-life ethical problems and dilemmas for each class; each student will be responsible for presenting a number of issues, as well as for guiding the discussion of those issues in class. The problems we address will largely span a lifetime of experiences and concerns. Students will also write several papers that evaluate formal arguments, using standard tools of critical thinking and philosophy. The course is discussion based, so a willingness to read carefully, to think critically, and to engage in classroom presentations and discussions is essential. Prerequisite: Junior standing, MDSC203 & ENG102.

Year 4

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-portfolio Prerequisite: FASH315

FASH407

Digital Commerce and Analytics

Digital Commerce and Analytics explores the dynamics of the fast growing digital space in the retail industry. The course prepares students to understand the underpinnings of both the front and back end of ecommerce website and app development, the digital consumer and their behaviors, UX design (user experience) and the end-to-end consumer journey. Students apply critical thinking skills to assess web and app functionality, ease of navigation, and ways to engage the consumer in the virtual world. Students analyze the impact of ecommerce on business models and strategy, as well as the infrastructure of these operations. The course includes retail analytics with an emphasis on both qualitative and quantitative analysis used to track behavior and conversion. Prerequisites: BUSS 105, MATH 209, & FASH 211