July 9 – 14, 2023

For one exciting week, explore the field of Fashion Merchandising. You will attend a carefully designed curriculum consisting of lessons, activities and virtual field trips with industry professionals. Faculty members have extensive experience in various facets of the fashion, lifestyle, and retail industries. You will work individually and in teams to complete a variety of projects.

 Apply Online

(Application deposit payable electronically)

About the Merchandising Program

Where Design Meets Business

Study the journey of fashion products from the designer’s mind to the final purchase. Learn the roles of buyers, product developers, marketing professionals, fashion writers, event planners, and retail managers who make the business of Fashion happen. During your one week virtual experience at Drexel, you will explore the relationship between design, development, merchandising, and marketing. Learn about a dynamic profession that applies business knowledge in conjunction with an aesthetic view point.

At the end of the program you will:

• Have a clear overview of the fashion industry, its language, and skills required for success
• Understand product development, manufacturing, and merchandising
• Explore career opportunities and begin your resume development
• Gain direct exposure to the key components within the fashion industry
• Experience the innovative and dynamic learning environment of Drexel University

1-Week Format: 

Dynamic Lessons: Drexel’s experienced faculty along with industry professionals will engage in the exciting world of fashion from history and inspiration to product creation and manufacturing to marketing and retailing.

Virtual Industry Visits: We will tour studios, corporate headquarters and retailers in New York and Philadelphia meeting leaders in the business of fashion.

Enrichment Events: We will provide extra activities to develop your global mindset as an aspiring fashion industry professional.

Personal Portfolio: You will create a comprehensive journal based on the curriculum and experiences from the one week program.

Final Venture: In teams you will collaborate and create an innovative project.

Quotes from Summer participants:

“I liked the program; it definitely has influenced my decision on to major in the field. I plan on applying to Drexel early decision.”

“This program was informative, covered the content it promised and more, and the speakers were interesting, and I learned a lot about my potential life path from their stories.”

“This program really helped me solidify my choice in pursuing this major in college.”

“I liked the program and felt I was treated like a college student.”

General Information 

Eligibility: We welcome motivated high school students who are at least 16 years of age and who have completed their sophomore or junior years of high school by the start of the program. We encourage anyone who is excited about the fashion industry to apply.

Faculty: Students will be taught by Drexel faculty from the Merchandising major at the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design. The faculty will be assisted by teaching assistants.

What will you will leave with: Students who successfully complete the 1-week program will receive a program certificate from Drexel University’s Design Department, presented at the virtual student gallery exhibition. You will also take away the foundation of a diverse student portfolio with original art and digital files along with a lot of career insights.

Registration and Payment: You may apply by completing the online application, and your 300-word personal statement of interest.

A deposit of $300 is required with your application. Your deposit will be returned if you are not accepted into the program. Upon acceptance, your deposit is nonrefundable. The balance of $800 must be paid by June 13, 2023. A final balance payment form will be provided. No refunds will be made once the program begins.

How soon will you hear from us? All applications will be reviewed as we receive them and applicants will be notified within 3 weeks from receipt. Admissions decisions are based upon academic preparation and commitment to explore design.  We will e-mail an acceptance letter and an information package to you and your family with additional program information. Enrollment is limited and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis upon review and acceptance of the application.

Tuition Registration 

Tuition: The tuition of $1100 covers everything, including:

• Classes, seminars, and lectures
• Virtual industry tours and speakers
• Use of computer resources and library
• Select Supplies and Materials which will be sent in the mail

Application, Registration, Payment: You may apply by completing the online application, and your 300 word personal statement of interest.

A deposit of $300 is required with your application. Your deposit will be returned if you are not accepted into the program. Upon acceptance, your deposit is nonrefundable. The balance of $800 must be paid by June 13, 2023. A final balance payment form will be provided. No refunds will be made once the program begins.