4+1 MS Programs
4+1 MASTER'S PROGRAM
The 4+1 program allows academically outstanding Fashion Merchandising and Management (FMM) and Fashion Design and Product Innovation (FDPI) majors to earn a Master’s degree in Fashion and Apparel Studies in just one additional year—or even less—after completing their bachelor’s degree. In other words, the 4+1 program saves students at least an entire year compared to the typical two-year timeframe for a master’s degree.
More importantly, through the 4+1 program, students can access exclusive learning opportunities and experiences, such as pipeline internships, industry partnership research projects, and dedicated faculty mentorship. These experiences will open new doors and significantly expand students’ career growth in fashion, apparel, retail, and related industries.
Students enrolled in the UD World Scholar program, Fashion Insitute of Technology (FIT) exchange program, or pursuing other minors can also take advantage of the FASH 4+1 program without any conflict.
Student learning experiences in the FASH 4+1 program
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Sewing the seeds for a successful career
January 25, 2024 | Written by Margo McDonoughIn mid-December, three University of Delaware students traveled to Washington, D.C., to present their research findings to top officials in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. -
Sustainable Sourcing
July 14, 2023 | Written by Hilary DouwesUD student research helps Macy’s create positive change in fashion industry -
Fash-a-letes
August 26, 2022 | Written by Amy WolfSummer Scholar Jenna Tomasch works on athletic apparel design and research
Admission to the 4+1 Program
1. When to Apply - Students will typically apply for admission to the 4+1 Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies program in the fall semester of the junior year. However, any undergraduate student interested in applying for the program is encouraged to make their interest known to their advisor as early as the freshman year. UD world scholars and students in the FASH-FIT program can also pursue the 4+1 program.
2. Admission requirements - Students must be enrolled at the University of Delaware in the Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies, pursuing an undergraduate major in FMM or FDPI. The admission requirements include the following:
4+1 Course planning form (you will work with your undergraduate academic advisor and Dr. Sheng Lu, FASH director of graduate studies)
Personal statement describing your interest in purposing the 4+1 program, and carer goals
Unofficial transcript (can be downloaded from UDSIS)
No application fee is required
- No GRE/GMAT scores are required
3. Application deadlines - Review of applicants typically begins October 15th of the junior year and students are officially notified by November 1st. Students start the 4+1 program in the spring of their junior year.
4+1 Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Management - Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies
The 4+1 program allows undergraduate Fashion Merchandising and Management majors to complete the master’s degree in Fashion and Apparel Studies in half the time. By accelerating the attainment of a master’s degree, students are provided with expanded opportunities for attaining effective written communication skills, to think critically to solve problems, to work independently, and an opportunity to gain research experience with faculty scholars. A Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies may result in expanded opportunities for career growth in fashion, apparel, retail and related industries.
4+1 Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design and Product Innovation - Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies
The 4+1 program allows undergraduate Fashion Design and Product Innovation majors to complete the master’s degree in Fashion and Apparel Studies in half the time. By accelerating attainment of a master’s degree, students are provided with expanded opportunities for attaining effective written communication skills, to think critically to solve problems, to work independently, and an opportunity to gain research experience with faculty scholars. A Master of Science in Fashion and Apparel Studies may result in expanded opportunities for career growth in fashion, apparel, retail and related industries.
The University of Delaware holistically supports its graduate students, beginning with their health and wellbeing. Benefits include a subsidized health plan and physical and behavioral health services. UD fosters a culture of academic excellence, with committed faculty and staff and access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technology. UD prioritizes professional development with job training, internships and industry partnerships. Graduates further enhance their professional growth and visibility with opportunities to work on interdisciplinary research teams, present their work at conferences and publish in academic journals. Visit the links below to learn how UD is supporting society’s future leaders, scholars, and innovators.
