DESCRIPTION OF FASHION MERCHANDISING COURSES AT SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY

FM 103. Introduction to FM. 3(3,0). This course provides an overview of FM within the context of the Fashion Industry, supplying a foundation of fundamental knowledge for a career in fashion at the retail, wholesales, manufacturing and support services levels. The nature, development, and operation of the Textiles and Apparel Industry is explained; from the development of textiles, to the production and MKT of apparel and accessories, and in the distribution to the consumer. (S)

FM 204. Essentials of Textiles. 3(1,2). This course offers an introductory study of textiles from fiber to fabric to finished product. This course also explores the types of fibers, and their properties and applications in apparel and home furnishings. Consumer textiles are emphasized, from selection to usage, care and serviceability. (S)

FM 205. Design Elements and Principles for the Consumer and Environment. 3(2,2). This course provides a knowledge base for the acquisition of competencies on the principles and elements of design within the professional and consumer context. Observation, analysis and the application of ARTS are utilized to familiarize students with the interpretation and integration of the basic design fundamentals in their lives. An appreciation of aesthetics is gained through the application of art and design laboratory assignments. (F)

FM 302. Apparel Merchandising Quantitative Analysis. 3(3,0). The course provides the basics of financial merchandise management for profitable apparel retail and manufacturing. Merchandising is viewed from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. Pricing, inventory control, stock and sales, budgeting and management, profit and loss, terms, dating and discounts, are taught in conjunction with the interpretation of the math. The corresponding financial terminology is also incorporated into the course content. Computer simulations, along with activities, problems and exercises are the methods employed. Prerequisite: All FM 100 & 200 level courses. M 154 & 155, and ACCT 207. (S)

FM 312. Contemporary Aspects of Clothing. 3(3,0). This course provides an introduction to fashion and the consumer in contemporary society. It also offers an exploration of the multidisciplinary nature of appearance management from a consumer behavioral perspective. The environmental factors that contribute to the adoption and diffusion of fashion, apparel and adornment are examined, form a consumer point of view. (S)

FM 364. Apparel Construction and Analysis I. 3(1,3). This course offers the analysis of apparel as a product and process. The application of garment construction and the fundamentals of fashion apparel production are employed to do this. Both the home sewing and apparel manufacturing industries are examined, with emphasis on the consumer, quality, terminology, technology, the components of construction, and elements of design. (F)

FM 366. Advanced Tailoring. 3(1,3). This course provides for advanced tailoring techniques. Emphasis is placed on construction of tailored apparel for retailing. Advanced experience in minor and major alterations. Prerequisite: FM 364. (F)

FM 410. Principles and Practices in FM. 3(3,0). This course offers a quantitative and qualitative approach to apparel merchandising. Principles and practices are applied through merchandise planning and control, visual merchandising and the study of the current state of the fashion industry. Retail buying and merchandise management are examined from the contemporary perspective. Problem solving and analytical thinking, case study analysis, computer applications, and undertaking projects with local retailers are utilized. Prerequisite: All FM 200 & 300 level courses, MKT 300 & MGT. 301. Part of Intern Block. (F)

FM 418. Creative Apparel Design. 4(2,4). Creative expression through the development and the application of fiat pattern and draping procedures, apparel design by the flat pattern and draping methods with emphasis on handling different fabrics and finishing techniques. Prerequisites: FM 365, ARTS 115 and consent of instructor. (S)

FM 420. Merchandising MGT. 3(3,0). This course prepares merchandising students for entry­level management positions in textiles, apparel, retail and/or the support service industries by providing an integrative explanation of the role of merchandise management. An examination and exploration of the many aspects of merchandising management is undertaken through the utilization of role playing, simulated management activities, case study analysis and computer applications. This course is taken the first half of the semester and part of the 15 hour Intern Block of courses. Prerequisite: All FM 200 & 300 level courses, MKT 300 & MGT 301. (F)

FM 427. Field Internship in Family and Consumer Sciences­FM.3(3,0). This course provides fashion merchandising students the opportunity for paid, full­time temporary employment in the textile, apparel, retail or support services industries. This course is taken the second half of the semester and part of the 15 hour Intern Block of courses. Prerequisite: All FM 200 & 300 level courses, MKT 300 & MGT 301. (F)

FM 450. Fashion Industry Overview and Trends. 3(3,0). Students utilize their acquired knowledge of concepts and principles in merchandising to integrate and synthesize information through analyzing and solving cases, surveying and discussing environmental occurrences and other activities. Students learn how to monitor the current environment and interpret its impact on the fashion industry and the consumer. Opportunities for internship will also be explored. Decision­making, critical thinking, interpersonal and communication skills are enhanced through the required written and oral reports. This course is taken the first half of the semester and part of the 15 hour Intern Block Prerequisite: All FM 200 & 300 level courses. (F)