Fashion Studies

Program Description

The Fashion Studies Certificate program incorporates the design aesthetics of fashion with the business communication skills required for any career in the fashion industry. Subjects in both design and merchandising are structured to allow you to explore creative skills and design applications.

The Fashion Studies curriculum combines and exploration of visual culture and trend forecasting, with basic design principles. Applied studio based projects develop skills such as drawing, rendering, mixing and applying paint, as well as colour theory and fibre exploration.

By nature, careers in fashion design, retailing and visual merchandising are creative. However, knowledge of business practices and the ability to think and make sound judgements are also necessary for success in this industry. Research abilities, multi-tasking skills, and an appreciation for the business and art of fashion will also help you achieve your career goals.

One of the issues that face today’s designers and business people is sustainability in the industry. Through case studies and examples, you'll explore current practice in green design and sustainability. Following this two-semester certificate, you'll be in an ideal position to make an informed decision about continuing your studies in one of the other exciting fashion programs within the School of Fashion and Merchandising.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)

The Importance of Learning Skills:
Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Your Career

The fashion industry is ever-growing and evolving. The Fashion Studies Program is also a great way to experience college life while exploring subjects such as design, drawing and fashion communications. As a graduate of the Fashion Studies program you will be well equipped to make an informed decision about your dream career and which of our exciting fashion diploma programs will help you get there.

Affiliations and Associations

• Apparel Affinity Group
• Apparel Human Resource Council
• Costume Society of Ontario
• Fashion Group International
• Fashion Industry Liaison Committee
• Fashion Takes Action
• Textile Museum of Canada
• Toronto Fashion Incubator

Learning Outcomes

1. Support the management of a fashion organization through the effective application of computer skills and knowledge of information technology.
2. Facilitate the completion of fashion design and fashion business-related assignments by demonstrating research, visual, verbal and written communication skills, as appropriate.
3. Support the completion of tasks and the meeting of deadlines in a fashion business or fashion design environment through the application of effective time management organizational skills.
4. Create two and three-dimensional designs and media explorations.
5. Apply the theories of idea generation to program projects.
6. Create visual communication in various media using colour theory and drawing skills.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the evolution of fashion and the sociological and psychological factors which influence the shape of fashion historically and today.
8. Discuss the ethical challenges facing the fashion industry today and the sustainable solutions being practiced today and proposed for the future.

Curriculum

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