Exploration of Retail Management and Fashion Merchandising Industries

RETL 201 introduces students to the essentials of Retail and Fashion Management, offering an engaging look into this dynamic industry. Tailored for newcomers, this course explores the creative and strategic aspects that fuel retail and fashion—from the initial spark of fashion design to the detailed planning in merchandising and management.

Students will learn about trend forecasting, where brands anticipate and respond to style shifts, and the product development process, which transforms ideas into tangible goods. The course also covers manufacturing and supply chain logistics, illuminating the journey from concept to consumer.

Marketing, promotion, event planning, and the impact of e-commerce and digital transformation on consumer engagement are integral parts of the curriculum. Through real-world examples, students will explore various career paths, from fashion buying and retail management to sales and visual merchandising, laying a strong foundation for future studies and careers in this vibrant field.

Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes are equivalent to those of a face-to-face (F2F) version of the course. Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Identify the roles and processes common to the Retail and Fashion Merchandising Industries.
• Research various career paths and industry employers, and apply the knowledge gained to their assignments and career goals.
• Evaluate the information acquired from the textbook and industry professionals during the student’s information interviews.
• Demonstrate professional behavior learned from respectful and effective communications, necessary to function as team members, leaders, and industry professionals.
• Use electronic and printed information to identify current issues in the retail and fashion industries and properly analyze their impact on company performance.