Apparel and Textiles Program Information
Mission
The mission of the Apparel Design & Textiles Program at The University of Alabama is to engage students, within an educational environment that integrates technology and fosters creativity, to communicate effectively and to think critically within a global, cultural and historical context about apparel design and fashion retail.
Primary Educational Goal
The primary educational goal established by the Apparel and Textiles Program at The University of Alabama is to prepare students for entry level positions in the apparel and textile industries. Sequential course offerings provide basic and upper level skill development and knowledge of the design field. The experiences students gain during their tenure provide an excellent foundation for professional and educational development. The common body of knowledge is taught not only through studio classes, but also in art and design history courses.
Vision
Our vision for the Apparel and Textiles Program at The University of Alabama is to produce graduates who demonstrate the ability to problem solve creatively within the field of apparel design, utilizing research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge. Graduates communicate ideas professionally and connect with the intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to the field of apparel and textiles; execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and apparel design principles; evaluate work in the field of apparel and textiles, including their own work, using a professional vocabulary; recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on apparel design products; and demonstrate professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace.
Major in apparel and textiles (AT)
The AT major prepares students for merchandising, management, design, and production careers in retailing and/or the textile and apparel industry. The major is also appropriate for students who are interested in pursuing a wide variety of entrepreneurial opportunities in fashion retailing, textiles, and/or apparel. Required courses for all Apparel design majors:
- CTD 102 Applied Design (3 hrs)
- CTD 241 Apparel Construction (3 hrs)
- CTD 261 Textiles (3 hours)
- CTD 281 Fashion Retailing I (3 hrs)
- CTD 447 Textiles and Apparel in International Trade (W) (3 hrs)
- CTD 448 History of Costume or CTD 415 History of Textile Design (W) (3 hrs)
- MKT 300 Marketing (3 hrs)
- EC 110 Principles of Economics (SB) (3 hrs)