Urban Outfitters and Drexel Launch Innovative Fashion Design Apprenticeship Program

Urban Outfitters, Inc. (NASDAQ: URBN) and Drexel University’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design are accepting applications for a two-year apprenticeship program that will prepare participants for careers in fashion design. Made to Measure: The URBN x Drexel Apprenticeship Program consists of a customized curriculum combining fashion design coursework at Drexel with mentorship and on-the-job training at URBN. URBN and Drexel are covering the cost of tuition and room and board with the goal of making careers in fashion design more accessible.

“I am so pleased to announce the launch of this unique learning program,” said Richard A. Hayne, chief executive officer of URBN. “As the fashion industry evolves, we must be more imaginative in seeking out and cultivating creative talent. By providing participants with access to hands-on learning, traditional coursework, and post-graduation employment options, we are creating significant value for all parties involved.”

Made to Measure: The URBN x Drexel Apprenticeship Program is for any individual interested in a career in fashion design who has a demonstrated aptitude for creativity and has yet to pursue postsecondary studies. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent by June 2023. Participants, known as Design Apprentices, will enroll as part-time students at Drexel while working up to 20 hours a week at URBN, rotating across brands and departments for a robust professional experience.

Applications will be accepted until March 1st. The final group of participants will be selected in Spring 2023 for July 2023 enrollment. Apprentices who successfully complete the program will earn 70 transferable course credits and stackable certificates from Drexel University, as well as an offer for continued employment at URBN.

“The fashion industry is changing — and so is higher education,” said Jason Schupbach, dean of the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design. “By creating a rigorous, non-traditional education format with direct pipelines to creative careers, we’re giving students from all backgrounds an unprecedented opportunity for success.”

To learn more, visit https://www.urbn.com/apprenticeship