Master of Fashion Design in USA – Top Universities, Tuition fee & Scholarship

Did you know that the global fashion market is projected to reach $3 trillion by 2030? This growth presents incredible opportunities for skilled designers. However, choosing the right Master’s program in the USA can be overwhelming due to the numerous options, high tuition fees, and the need for industry connections. These challenges are further complicated by varying specializations and the difficulty of securing financial aid.

This blog will explore popular programs and universities offering Master’s in Fashion Design, providing insights to help you make an informed decision and confidently advance your career in fashion design.

Why Study MS in Fashion Designing in USA?

The USA, a beacon of fashion innovation and home to top-ranking fashion schools like Parsons School of Design and Savannah College of Art, stands at the forefront of fashion education globally. In 2025, pursuing a degree in fashion design in the US is not just about qualifying; it’s about immersing yourself in an environment that breathes creativity and innovation.

1. Vibrant Fashion Industry: The US fashion industry, known for its diverse and dynamic nature, offers an unparalleled learning ground. Students get to witness and be part of the latest fashion trends and business strategies.
2. Top Universities and Colleges: With institutions like Kent State University leading in fashion studies, the US boasts a range of colleges that specialize in various aspects of fashion, from textile design to fashion marketing.
3. Global Networking Opportunities: Studying in the US provides students with opportunities to connect with professionals from across the world, enhancing international perspectives and career opportunities.
4. Cultural Melting Pot: The US’s diverse cultural landscape enriches the learning experience, allowing students to draw inspiration from a multitude of fashion styles and traditions.

Admission Requirements for Master’s in Fashion Design in the USA 

Securing admission to a prestigious US university for a master’s degree in fashion design requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements is crucial for a successful application.

1. Academic Qualifications: Most universities require a bachelor’s degree in fashion design or a related field. Some institutions accept degrees in unrelated fields if the applicant has significant work experience in fashion.
2. Portfolio Review: A well-curated portfolio showcasing your design work is essential. It should reflect your creativity, technical skills, and personal style.
3. Work Experience (Optional): While not always mandatory, relevant work experience in the fashion industry can be a significant advantage.
4. English Language Proficiency: For international students, proficiency in English, often evidenced by TOEFL or IELTS scores, is a prerequisite.
5. Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references that speak to your abilities and potential in the field of fashion design.

Popular Masters in Fashion Design Programs in the USA 

Several universities in the USA offer top-tier Master’s programs in Fashion Design. Here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Parsons School of Design (The New School)

• Location: New York, NY
• Program: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion Design and Society
• Specializations: Fashion Studies, Design and Technology, Fashion Marketing
• Highlights: Known for its strong emphasis on innovation, critical thinking, and the integration of new technologies in design.

2. Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

• Location: New York, NY
• Program: Master of Arts (MA) in Fashion and Textile Studies: History, Theory, Museum Practice
• Specializations: Fashion Design, Global Fashion Management, Textiles
• Highlights: Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, offering extensive industry connections and study abroad opportunities.

3. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

• Location: Savannah, GA
• Program: Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion
• Specializations: Luxury and Fashion Management, Accessory Design, Fibers
• Highlights: Offers both on-campus and eLearning options, with a strong focus on practical skills and market exposure.

4. Pratt Institute

• Location: Brooklyn, NY
• Program: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion Design
• Specializations: Fashion Design, Jewellery Design, Textile Design
• Highlights: Emphasizes sustainability and ethical fashion, providing students with access to cutting-edge technology and facilities.

5. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Program: Master of Design (MDes) in Fashion, Body and Garment
• Specializations: Fashion, Body and Garment, Fibre and Material Studies
• Highlights: Focuses on experimental and interdisciplinary approaches to fashion design.

6. Drexel University

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Program: Master of Science (MS) in Fashion Design
• Specializations: Design Research, Sustainable Fashion
• Highlights: Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum that integrates art, design, science, and technology.

7. Academy of Art University

• Location: San Francisco, CA
• Program: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion Design
• Specializations: Fashion Design, Textile Design, Fashion Marketing
• Highlights: Offers both on-campus and online programs, with a strong focus on hands-on learning and industry connections.

8. Kent State University

• Location: Kent, OH
• Program: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion Design
• Specializations: Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Textile Design
• Highlights: Provides extensive resources and opportunities for research and practical experience in fashion design.

9. Indiana University – Bloomington

• Location: Bloomington, IN
• Program: Master of Science (MS) in Apparel Merchandising
• Specializations: Apparel Merchandising, Fashion Design, Consumer Behaviour
• Highlights: Offers a comprehensive approach to fashion design and merchandising, with a focus on research and practical skills.

10. Thomas Jefferson University (Jefferson)

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Program: Master of Science (MS) in Fashion Design Management
• Specializations: Textile Design, Global Fashion Enterprise
• Highlights: Known for its strong industry ties and focus on innovation and sustainability in fashion design.

Top 10 Masters in Fashion Design Universities in USA 

Here is a table listing the top universities in the USA offering Masters in Fashion Design, along with their world ranking, specializations, annual tuition fees, living expenses, and total annual costs:

Name of the University	World Ranking	Specializations	Tuition Fee	Living Expense	Annual Total Cost
Parsons School of Design (The New School), NY	1	Fashion Studies, Design and Technology, Fashion Marketing, and more	$48,440	$20,000	$68,440
Fashion Institute of Technology (SUNY), NY	2	Fashion Design, Global Fashion Management, Textiles, and more	$22,232	$17,110	$39,342
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), GA	3	Luxury and Fashion Management, Accessory Design, Fibres, and more	$38,475	$18,900	$57,375
Pratt Institute, NY	4	Fashion Design, Jewellery Design, Textile Design, and more	$55,590	$19,700	$75,290
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), IL	5	Fashion, Body and Garment, Fibre and Material Studies	$53,160	$16,600	$69,760
Drexel University, PA	6	Fashion Design, Design Research	$37,074	$17,074	$54,148
Academy of Art University, CA	7	Fashion Design, Textile Design, Fashion Marketing	$27,756	$18,036	$45,792
Kent State University, OH	8	Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Textile Design	$21,952	$12,000	$33,952
Indiana University – Bloomington, IN	9	Apparel Merchandising, Fashion Design, Consumer Behaviour	$33,338	$20,000	$53,338
Thomas Jefferson University (Jefferson), PA	10	Fashion Design Management, Textile Design, Global Fashion Enterprise	$44,800	$18,000	$62,800

Career Prospects Post Graduation

The table below outlines various career prospects in fashion, along with job descriptions and median salaries in the USA.

Career Path	Description	Median Salary (USD)
Fashion Stylist	Create clothing, accessories, and footwear, from initial sketch to final product.	$73,790
Fashion Director	Oversee the creative vision for brands, magazines, or fashion shows.	$89,000
Textile Designer	Design fabrics and patterns for various applications including clothing and home decor.	$64,040
Fashion Merchandiser	Plan and oversee the buying of fashion items and ensure they meet market demand.	$84,906
Fashion Buyer	Select and purchase clothing and accessories for retail stores based on consumer trends.	$72,661
Fashion Illustrator	Create drawings and illustrations for fashion publications, designers, and advertisements.	$60,280
Product Developer	Oversee the creation of fashion products from concept to production.	$65,905
Sustainable Fashion Consultant	Advise companies on sustainable practices and eco-friendly fashion.	$77,980
Fashion Marketing Manager	Develop and execute marketing strategies to promote fashion brands and products.	$93,910
Fashion Educator	Teach fashion design and related courses at colleges and universities.	$67,803

Top Recruiters

Graduates with a Master’s in Fashion Design from top universities in the USA are highly sought after by major recruiters in the fashion industry. Here are some of the leading companies that frequently recruit these graduates.

1. LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) – Brands: Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, Fendi, and more.

2. Kering Group – Brands: Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen.

3. PVH Corp. – Brands: Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Van Heusen, and IZOD.

4. Ralph Lauren Corporation – Brands: Polo Ralph Lauren, Lauren Ralph Lauren, and Ralph Lauren Collection.

5. VF Corporation – Brands: The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Wrangler.

6. H&M Group – Brands: H&M, COS, & Other Stories, and Arket.

7. Under Armour

8. Fast Retailing Co. (Uniqlo) 

9. Nike, Inc.

10. Adidas

Scholarships for Masters in Fashion Design in the USA 

Here is a tabular column detailing scholarships and financial aid options available to international students pursuing a Master’s in Fashion Design in the USA:

Name of the Scholarship	Institution	Type of Scholarship	Eligibility Criteria
Parsons Graduate Scholarship	Parsons School of Design	Merit-based	Academic excellence, portfolio quality
FIT International Student Scholarship	Fashion Institute of Technology (SUNY)	Need-based	Demonstrated financial need, academic merit
SCAD Graduate Scholarship	Savannah College of Art and Design	Merit-based	Strong academic and artistic achievements
Pratt Graduate Scholarships	Pratt Institute	Merit-based	Outstanding academic and portfolio performance
SAIC International Graduate Scholarship	School of the Art Institute of Chicago	Merit-based	Academic and artistic excellence
Drexel Merit Scholarships	Drexel University	Merit-based	High academic achievement, strong portfolio
AAU International Graduate Scholarship	Academy of Art University	Merit and Need-based	Academic merit, demonstrated financial need
Kent State University Graduate Scholarship	Kent State University	Merit-based	Academic excellence, relevant experience
IU Eskenazi School of Art Scholarships	Indiana University – Bloomington	Merit-based	Academic merit, portfolio quality
Jefferson Graduate Scholarships	Thomas Jefferson University	Merit-based	Academic excellence, leadership qualities

How does a Master’s in Fashion Design differ from an MS in Fashion Designing in USA?

An MS in Fashion Designing in the USA typically emphasizes technical skills, research, and scientific aspects of fashion, such as textile innovation and product development. It often includes a strong focus on analytical and practical skills, preparing students for roles in fashion technology and management.

Conversely, a Master’s in Fashion Design focuses more on creative and artistic skills, including fashion illustration, garment construction, and conceptual development. This program is geared towards nurturing designers’ creative talents and preparing them for artistic and design-oriented roles within the fashion industry. Both programs offer industry connections but cater to different career paths.

Conclusion

The 2024 landscape offers a blend of top-tier education, cutting-edge trends, and vast career opportunities. From the prestigious halls of Parsons School of Design to the creative studios of Savannah College of Art, the journey is not just about acquiring a degree; it’s about shaping your future in the dynamic world of fashion. With the right preparation, financial planning, and a passion for design, this experience can be a transformative chapter in your professional life.

Navigate your way to academic and financial success by utilizing Ambitio’s Scholarship Finder. This intuitive tool helps you explore a wide array of scholarships, ensuring you have the financial support to pursue your educational goals.

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