Career options
Prepare for a career in the fashion design industry with this degree program. Choose from two distinctive tracts, fashion design and fashion entrepreneurship, to customize the program to best fit your individual needs and interests. Working alongside expert instructors, you’ll develop entry-level skills in the fashion design or fashion entrepreneurship industry.
Classes may include apparel textile design, flat pattern design, draping, fashion illustrating, sewing methods, professional design room practices, costume history, fashion forecasting, global sourcing apparel, promotion of fashion and more.
Harper College’s academic facilities simulate the professional atmosphere of the fashion industry. Gain real-world experience by participating in the annual Student Fashion Show, which features original student work. Harper is also home to Studio V, a professional student-run boutique offering locally designed apparel, jewelry, accessories, sculpture, art and other original pieces. A Jury Show allows you to showcase your work and receive critiques from industry professionals. You can also participate in the Harper’s Bizarre Fashion Club, along with dozens of other student organizations.
This 61 credit-hour program is designed to provide students with entry-level skills in apparel textile design, flat pattern design, draping, fashion illustrating and professional design room practices. Facilities will simulate the professional atmosphere of the fashion industry.
This sequenced degree plan is one of two options that students may pursue to earn the Fashion Design Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
First Semester | Hours | |
| FAS 100 | Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to basic principles of apparel construction techniques. Course projects require the use of industrial sewing equipment. Presents instruction in basic sewing techniques and their application to garment construction. (NOTE: Final project should be completed to participate in the annual department Little Black Dress competition.) Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 101 | Flat Pattern I | 3 |
Description: Introduces the principles of patternmaking through drafting basic block and pattern manipulation. Working from the flat pattern, students will apply these techniques to the creation of a garment design. Accuracy and professional standards stressed. Pattern tested in muslin for fit. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS 100 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 105 | Fashion Design and Illustration I | 3 |
Description: Introduces basic and advanced techniques in rendering the fashion figure, garments, details, and textiles using various media with a focus on application of color and texture. Students will begin to develop a personal illustrative style. Students will be introduced to technical drawing and flat sketches for use in spec sheets, presentations, and story boards. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 107 | Textiles I | 3 |
Description: Explores natural and manufactured fibers, their production, uses, and characteristics. Includes discussion of yarns, fabrics, finishes, design methods, aesthetic applications, and ordering specifications. Emphasizes traditional techniques as well as advancements in technology utilized in the textile industry. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 112 | Fashion Basics | 3 |
Description: Presents fashion merchandise through evaluation of fashion products. Develops awareness of construction, as well as workmanship and design elements, such as fabric, color silhouette and taste. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
Second Semester | ||
| FAS 102 | Flat Pattern II | 3 |
Description: Continues development of basic sloper set. Manipulates basic sloper set to create original design. Patterns tested in muslin for fit. Garment is constructed from corrected patterns. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 104 | Apparel Design and Construction | 3 |
Description: Develops patterns from basic sloper set. Actual construction of finished garments to be shown at the annual department fashion show. Emphasis on styling, fit, and professional finishing. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 110 | Costume History + | 3 |
Description: Introduces the elements of design and color in historical perspective. A survey of historical periods of design focusing on costumes. Examines the influences of social, political and economic forces on these periods. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 113 | Advanced Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Focuses on application and mastery of basic sewing skills in patten and fabric recognition and problem solving related to individual creative design. Emphasis on technolgy, technical accuracy and appropriate use of selected material and supplies. (NOTE: This course is intended for students with basic sewing skill and machine proficiency.) Prerequisite: FAS 100 with a grade of C or better or placement as demonstrated through Fashion Design Department testing. Contact program coordinator for additional information. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| MGT 150 | Business Math 1 | 3 |
Description: Introduces arithmetic as a tool of business. Topics include fractions, decimals and percentages, computations of interest, bank discounts, depreciation, commissions, compound interest, payrolls and taxes and graph and chart design. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
| ENG 101 | Composition I | 3 |
Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900 Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options. https://www.harpercollege.edu/testing/english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with a grade of B or better and required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with a grade of B or better and required reading placement test score. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Social and Behavioral Science 2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 6 | |
Third Semester | ||
| FAS 109 | Fashion Arts and Design | 3 |
Description: Focuses on theory and principles of design for fashion, and familiarizes the student with major fabric names and constructions. Studies the use of unusual material in design and applies those materials to individual projects to be shown at the annual department fashion show. Studies the influence of present-day cultural trends in the field of design. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 201 | Draping | 3 |
Description: Continues advanced development of the creative design process through basic draping techniques on industry standard dress forms. Final garments will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 112 | Digital Illustration I | 3 |
Description: Presents vector graphics software and its applications to the graphic arts industry. Explores tools and functions within the current software. Focuses on creating illustrations, working with type, color, and all tools needed to create multi-colored illustration and separation. Emphasizes techniques to create illustration files for use in digital print production. Strong computer skills are required for success in this course. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Humanities 3 | 3 | |
| Hours | 12 | |
Fourth Semester | ||
| FAS 204 | Fashion Design Studio | 4 |
Description: Works on collection of individual design and actual construction of coordinated garments. This capstone course requirement includes garment entry and participation in annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 201 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 6 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 208 | Computer-Aided Patternmaking | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to the Computerized Patternmaking Software. Students learn the technical terminology and CAD tools to create and modify patterns. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 3 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 210 | Advanced Fashion Illustration II | 3 |
Description: Emphasizes work on a professional studio level. Focuses on work sketches as well as finished art. Studies illustration for advertising, publicity, promotion and display. Includes preparation of professional portfolio. Prerequisite: FAS 105 and GRA 112 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Humanities 3 | 3 | |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Total Hours | 61 | |
This course meets the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement.
The mathematics requirement for this degree can be met with MGT150 (Business Math) or Math Competency. See Math Competency options for information. Students who use Math Competency to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an additional three credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.
See full list of AAS General Education Electives.
ART 105 is recommended.
This 60 credit-hour program is designed to provide students with entry-level skills in apparel textile design, flat pattern design, draping, fashion illustrating and professional design room practices. Facilities will simulate the professional atmosphere of the fashion industry.
This sequenced degree plan is one of two options that students may pursue to earn the Fashion Design Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.
This 60 credit-hour program is designed to provide students with entry-level skills in apparel textile design, flat pattern design, draping, fashion illustrating and professional design room practices. Facilities will simulate the professional atmosphere of the fashion industry.
This sequenced degree plan is one of two options that students may pursue to earn the Fashion Design Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
First Semester | Hours | |
| ENG 101 | Composition I | 3 |
Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900 Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options. https://www.harpercollege.edu/testing/english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with a grade of B or better and required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with a grade of B or better and required reading placement test score. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 100 | Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to basic principles of apparel construction techniques. Course projects require the use of industrial sewing equipment. Presents instruction in basic sewing techniques and their application to garment construction. (NOTE: Final project should be completed to participate in the annual department Little Black Dress competition.) Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 101 | Flat Pattern I | 3 |
Description: Introduces the principles of patternmaking through drafting basic block and pattern manipulation. Working from the flat pattern, students will apply these techniques to the creation of a garment design. Accuracy and professional standards stressed. Pattern tested in muslin for fit. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS 100 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 107 | Textiles I | 3 |
Description: Explores natural and manufactured fibers, their production, uses, and characteristics. Includes discussion of yarns, fabrics, finishes, design methods, aesthetic applications, and ordering specifications. Emphasizes traditional techniques as well as advancements in technology utilized in the textile industry. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 112 | Fashion Basics | 3 |
Description: Presents fashion merchandise through evaluation of fashion products. Develops awareness of construction, as well as workmanship and design elements, such as fabric, color silhouette and taste. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
Second Semester | ||
| FAS 102 | Flat Pattern II | 3 |
Description: Continues development of basic sloper set. Manipulates basic sloper set to create original design. Patterns tested in muslin for fit. Garment is constructed from corrected patterns. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 104 | Apparel Design and Construction | 3 |
Description: Develops patterns from basic sloper set. Actual construction of finished garments to be shown at the annual department fashion show. Emphasis on styling, fit, and professional finishing. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 110 | Costume History + | 3 |
Description: Introduces the elements of design and color in historical perspective. A survey of historical periods of design focusing on costumes. Examines the influences of social, political and economic forces on these periods. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 113 | Advanced Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Focuses on application and mastery of basic sewing skills in patten and fabric recognition and problem solving related to individual creative design. Emphasis on technolgy, technical accuracy and appropriate use of selected material and supplies. (NOTE: This course is intended for students with basic sewing skill and machine proficiency.) Prerequisite: FAS 100 with a grade of C or better or placement as demonstrated through Fashion Design Department testing. Contact program coordinator for additional information. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 112 | Digital Illustration I | 3 |
Description: Presents vector graphics software and its applications to the graphic arts industry. Explores tools and functions within the current software. Focuses on creating illustrations, working with type, color, and all tools needed to create multi-colored illustration and separation. Emphasizes techniques to create illustration files for use in digital print production. Strong computer skills are required for success in this course. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
Third Semester | ||
| FAS 201 | Draping | 3 |
Description: Continues advanced development of the creative design process through basic draping techniques on industry standard dress forms. Final garments will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 230 | Fashion Forecasting | 3 |
Description: Focuses on the social, economic, political and psychological forces that influence fashion. Research, recognize, and analyze predictive lifestyle and business trends that affect retail merchandising and marketing decisions. Introduces methods of forecasting fashion trends.Communicates and presents the forecast through creation of industry-based presentation material using current digital software. Prerequisite: GRA 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| MGT 150 | Business Math 1 | 3 |
Description: Introduces arithmetic as a tool of business. Topics include fractions, decimals and percentages, computations of interest, bank discounts, depreciation, commissions, compound interest, payrolls and taxes and graph and chart design. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| MGT 154 | Entrepreneurship | 3 |
Description: Investigates positives and negatives of entrepreneurship and the process of concept to new venture. Analyzes typical venture errors and focuses on strategic management. Evaluates business ownership and franchising, pricing strategies, financing, location selection and human capital management. Discovers personal leadership traits. Assesses the personal entrepreneurial mindset. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| SPE 101 | Fundamentals of Speech Communication | 3 |
Description: Theory and practice of oral communications. Development of poise, confidence and skill in speech organization and delivery. Emphasis on frequent speaking, development of standards of criticism and selection and organization of material. IAI C2 900 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
Fourth Semester | ||
| FAS 208 | Computer-Aided Patternmaking | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to the Computerized Patternmaking Software. Students learn the technical terminology and CAD tools to create and modify patterns. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 3 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 225 | Global Sourcing of Apparel and Textiles | 3 |
Description: Defines global sourcing and provides an understanding of why and how companies participate in it. Explains how and where manufactured goods or components will be procured. Teaches that in today’s global softgoods industry, sourcing has become a major competitive strategy for both manufacturers and retailers. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 229 | Promotion of Fashion | 3 |
Description: Introduces various techniques and methods to sell fashion. Helps to synthesize a number of skills such as critical and creative thinking, negotiating, teamwork, delegating and communication skills. Students will gain recognition and be responsible for team effort that is involved in the production of a fashion show. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Humanities 2 | 3 | |
| Social and Behavioral Science 2 | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Total Hours | 60 | |
This course meets the World Culture and Diversity graduation requirement.
The mathematics requirement for this degree can be met with MGT150 (Business Math) or Math Competency. See Math Competency options for information. Students who use Math Competency to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an additional three credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.
See full list of AAS General Education electives.
Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:
Students interested in fashion design may also be interested in:
For more information about earning a fashion design degree, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.