Do I need to know how to sew?
Sewing skills acquired before starting your program can be helpful but aren't required. In the first year all TMFD majors take a basic sewing construction course to help familiarize them with the department's sewing equipment, studios and basic apparel construction. From that point, textile and fashion design students are exposed to a wide variety of construction methods and have ample opportunity to develop their skills.
What kind of laptop should I have?
TMFD majors work with proprietary software in our programs, and those software platforms can't be installed on personal computers. Our computer labs provide access to this software. All students will use Adobe Creative Suite® and Microsoft Office, and these are available both for PCs and Macs. Our Merchandising and Science faculty members work primarily in PCs, and our design faculty generally prefer Macs for their personal and professional use. The choice is up to you.
Can I finish my program in four years?
Many students complete their programs in four years, and our curriculum is planned carefully so that this is possible, as long as students adhere to the sequencing of courses and if they are faithful in meeting with their advisor at least once each semester. CEHS has a central advising office who works with all TMFD majors to keep them on track to completion in eight semesters. The most important factor in our four-year completion success rate is to see your advisor consistently throughout your program.
When can I do an internship?
Most students who qualify do their internship in the summer between their junior and senior years. The most important consideration is that to be eligible for an internship, you must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the major, and you must have taken a specified number of credits and specific courses in the department. A faculty member oversees the internship credits and this entails meetings with prospective internees through the semester prior to the internship experience. To receive credit, an internship must be approved in advance.