Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food & Environment

Merchandising, Apparel & Textiles

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We blend creativity with business principles to prepare leaders in retail and merchandising industries.

A degree that's always in style...

Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles (MAT) students explore market trends, retail strategies, supply chains and more across the global marketplace. Our coursework teaches students about industry practices within development, sourcing, marketing, and merchandising of consumer goods and services. Students will gain skills in visual merchandising, sketching and design, buying and sourcing materials, event planning and more.  

From Paris Fashion Week to small-town storefronts, Google internships to fashion show fundraisers, our Merchandising students receive a wide variety of hands-on experience. Our graduates are well prepared for the job market and enter careers in areas such as:

  • Digital Merchandising
  • Product Development
  • Retail Management
  • Marketing & Public Relations
  • Visual Merchandising
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Quality Assurance Management
  • Fashion Buyer / Director
  • Supply Chain Management
  • and much more!

 

 

Come See For Yourself

To schedule a campus visit, where you can meet with a Merchandising advisor, click here

 

 

 

 

 

Kymberley Johnson Merchandising Kentucky
This program gave me so many opportunities, from seeing the fashion industry firsthand in New York City, Atlanta, and Italy - to teaching me about the science behind merchandising...

Kym Johnson

Merchandising Alum & Google Employee

Courses You Will Take

Access Major Map

source: myUK: GPS

Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles (BS) 120 - 123 hours
Freshman Year
Sophomore Year
Junior Year
Senior Year
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Total Freshman Year Credit Hours : 32 - 35

Fall Semester
16 - 18 Credit Hours
UK Core - Comp. & Comm. I
3
UK Core - Humanities
3
MAT 114
3
MAT 114 - INTRODUCTION TO MERCHANDISING

MAT 114

3 credit hours

An introduction to merchandising with emphasis on apparel and textiles. Examination of industry structures which facilitate the development, manufacturing, marketing and merchandising of goods and services in the domestic and international marketplace.

SOC 101
3
SOC 101 - INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY

SOC 101

**UK Core - Social Sciences**

3 credit hours

Introduction to the concepts and methods of sociology. Topics shall include socialization; group processes, social inequalities; social institutions; and social change. This course or its equivalent Sociology courses. Students may not receive credit for both this course and CLD 102.

AFE 100
3
AFE 100 - ISSUES IN AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND ENVIRONMENT

AFE 100

**UK Core - Community, Culture and Citizen**

3 credit hours

How do farmers in Kentucky impact families in California? How can the fashion industry curb the amount of plastic in our oceans? How does fast food affect sea life in the Gulf of Mexico? Whether we realize it or not, each of us has a relationship with agriculture, food and the environment. From race and gender, diet and lifestyles, tourism and evolving technologies, this course encourages you to recognize and think critically about the interconnected systems that affect all human life. By addressing these challenges, you will develop a greater appreciation for how you can positively impact our planet.

Prereq: This course is open to students enrolled in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment or those in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Residential College's Belle C. Gunn Living Learning Program. Freshman only in Fall semesters and transfer students only in Spring semesters.

Free Elective
1 - 3
Spring Semester
16 - 17 Credit Hours
UK Core - Comp. & Comm. II
3
UK Core - Quantitative Foundations
3 - 4
UK Core - Natural, Physical and Math
3
PSY 100
4
PSY 100 - INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

PSY 100

**UK Core - Social Sciences**

4 credit hours

An introduction to the study of behavior covering theories, methods and findings of research in major areas of psychology. Topics covered will include the biological foundations of behavior; learning, perception, motivation, personality; developmental, abnormal, and social behavior; and methods of assessment. This course is a prerequisite to a significant number of courses in this and related areas of study. Lecture, three hours; laboratory/discussion, two hours.

MAT 120
3
MAT 120 - TEXTILES FOR CONSUMERS

MAT 120

3 credit hours

A study of textiles with emphasis on consumer applications. Properties of fibers, yarns, fabric structures, colors, and finishes related to end use. Survey of legislation and of maintenance requirements.

Total Sophomore Year Credit Hours : 28 - 30

Fall Semester
13 - 15 Credit Hours
UK Core - Statistical Inferential Reason
3
Free Elective
1 - 3
ECO 201
3
ECO 201 - PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS I

ECO 201

3 credit hours

This course will introduce you to the economic way of thinking and provides basic tools of economic theory used to study markets, individual consumer behavior, and the behavior of firms. It employs concepts such as scarcity, opportunity costs, tradeoffs, marginal thinking, and gains from trade. This course will examine how markets work and how supply and demand interact to determine prices, explore market failure such as externalities, the tragedy of the commons and public goods and the role of the government in market activity. Students will also be introduced to theories of the firm and individual behavior, competition and monopoly, and welfare economics. Students successfully completing this course should leave with an understanding of these basic economic principles and their applicability to real world situations. Students should also be able to incorporate the tools of economic analysis into their own decision-making processes as they weigh costs and benefits to make choices.

Professional Support
3
MAT 237
3
MAT 237 - AESTHETIC EXPERIENCE IN RETAIL

MAT 237

3 credit hours

An introduction to design and aesthetic principles as they are applied to promotional procedures of retail and wholesale organizations including methods of visual merchandising, special event promotion and public relations.

Prereq: MAT 120 or consent of instructor.

Spring Semester
15 Credit Hours
UK Core - Arts and Creativity
3
ACC 200
3
ACC 200 - INTRODUCTION TO ACCOUNTING FOR DECISION MAKERS

ACC 200

3 credit hours

This course introduces accounting for decision makers. Topics include the roles of accountants, the use of accounting information for organizational planning and control, the analysis of accounting data for solving business problems, and an exposure to how financial reporting communicates business results. (Formerly ACC 202).

Prereq: AN105 (prereq or coreq) or CS101 (prereq or coreq), and successful completion of 27 semester credit hours or consent of the School of Accountancy Director.

ECO 202
3
ECO 202 - PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS II

ECO 202

3 credit hours

A study of how society's needs are satisfied with the limited resources available. Topics include contemporary issues such as inflation, unemployment, economic growth, international dependencies, and how public policy deals with them. A critical understanding of the U.S. and global economies will enhance your value as a manager or executive of a business (whether for-profit or non-profit), as a family member dealing with jobs and financial decisions, and as a voter in a democracy. The course will allow you to become knowledgeable of, and able to critically think about, the major macroeconomic issues of unemployment, jobs, recessions, economic growth, inflation, deflation, oil prices, monetary policy, the Federal Reserve, fiscal policy, budget deficits, the national debt, international trade, international finance, and the financial system.

Prereq: ECO 201.

Professional Support
3
MAT 247
3
MAT 247 - DRESS AND CULTURE

MAT 247

**UK Core - Global Dynamics**

3 credit hours

A study of the social, cultural, physical, and psychological factors which influence apparel and apparel use in contemporary society.

Total Junior Year Credit Hours : 32 - 34

Fall Semester
13 Credit Hours
MKT 300
3
MKT 300 - MARKETING MANAGEMENT

MKT 300

3 credit hours

The literature and problems in the retail distribution of consumers' goods, wholesale distribution of consumers' goods, industrial goods, sales organizations, sales promotion and advertising, and price policies.

Prereq: Sophomore standing or higher.

RTM 340
1
RTM 340 - PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE/PRE-INTERNSHIP

RTM 340

1 credit hours

Self-assessment of students' strengths, limitations, and career aspirations. Preparation of reference files, letters, and resumes. Identification of and application to department-approved agencies for completion of internship experience.

Prereq: "C" or above in HMT 270 or MAT 237 and Sophomore standing or higher.

MAT 315
3
MAT 315 - MERCHANDISE PLANNING AND CONTROL

MAT 315

3 credit hours

Study and application of planning and control strategies and processes essential to profitability in merchandising. Analysis of company and industry merchandising and operating results.

Prereq: ECO 201, ECO 202.

RTM 345
3
RTM 345 - SERVICE MANAGEMENT

RTM 345

3 credit hours

A survey of the special characteristics, problems, and methods for managing service-oriented organizations. Students will learn principles of services and guest services management in order to see how they can be used in managing any service organization. The course also introduces quantitative techniques associated with managing organizations in the service sector. Upon completion of the course, the students will be able to apply the concepts to their work experiences.

Prereq: "C" or above in HMT 308 or MAT 237.

ACC 201
3
ACC 201 - FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING

ACC 201

3 credit hours

This course introduces financial accounting and reporting. Topics include analyzing and recording transactions and adjustments; preparing and interpreting financial statements; and understanding the effects of transactions, adjustments, and accounting methods on the elements of financial statements and disclosures.

Prereq: AN105 or CS101, and ACC 200; or consent of the School of Accountancy Director.

Spring Semester
13 - 15 Credit Hours
MAT 514
3
MAT 514 - RETAIL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

MAT 514

3 credit hours

Concepts of entrepreneurship within single ownership and other business organizations; development of a business plan; management of a small business, current issues and problems.

Prereq: Junior Standing, Senior Standing, or Graduate Student and MAT 114.

Major Selection
3
MGT 301
3
MGT 301 - INTRODUCTION TO MANAGING ORGANIZATIONS

MGT 301

3 credit hours

A broad introduction to managing organizations. This course focuses on managerial functions and activities of planning, organizing, leading and controlling. After taking this course, students will have a good understanding of what’s involved in managing people and organizations.

Prereq: Sophomore standing.

MKT 320
3
MKT 320 - RETAIL AND DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT

MKT 320

3 credit hours

Analysis of the functions, structure, policies, and performance of distribution channels and institutions. The course objective is to provide students with an understanding of concepts and decision making tools useful in managing manufacturer-retailer relationships and distribution costs at both the channel and retail level. The course is also concerned with the legal and socio-economic impact of distribution trends and practices.

Prereq: MKT 300.

Free Elective
1 - 3
Summer Semester
6 Credit Hours
RTM 499
6
RTM 499 - RETAILING AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT INTERNSHIP

RTM 499

6 credit hours

Provides prospective HMT and MAT professionals a 320-hour, 8 week learning experience in a selected agency or organization, under the joint supervision of a qualified manager and a university internship supervisor. More specific details are available in the RTM Internship Manual.

Prereq: 'C' or better in HMT 120 or MAT 114, HMT 210 or MAT 120, HMT 270 or MAT 237, HMT 350 or MAT 315, RTM 340 and RTM 345 plus 100 approved hours of pre-internship experience.

Total Senior Year Credit Hours : 24

Fall Semester
12 Credit Hours
MAT 414
3
MAT 414 - MERCHANDISING STRATEGY ANALYSIS

MAT 414

3 credit hours

The analysis of environmental, individual, and psychological factors of consumer consumption and their impact on apparel retailer strategic planning. Restricted to seniors.

Prereq: MAT 114, ACC 201, MAT 315.

MAT 572
3
MAT 572 - INTERNATIONAL MERCHANDISING

MAT 572

3 credit hours

A study of the internationalization of retailing and factors that influence the process in foreign countries such as countries’ level of development and how countries’ governments are supporting the growth of their retail industries. Social, economic, and environmental perspectives will also be considered as they relate to countries’ retail markets and retail trade at the global level. In-depth exploration of key international retailing concepts provides students with the theoretical foundation to explore the international retail landscape in more detail through the study of retail industries in four world regions.

Prereq: MAT 315, MKT 320.

MAT 510
3
MAT 510 - BRAND MANAGEMENT

MAT 510

3 credit hours

Examination of the important issues in planning and evaluating brand strategies with special emphasis on exploring why brands are important, what they represent to consumers and what firms should do to manage them properly.

Prereq: Junior Standing, Senior Standing, or Graduate Student and MAT 114.

RTM 425
3
RTM 425 - HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

RTM 425

RTM 425 will complete the GCCR

3 credit hours

Demonstrate knowledge of human resource management and its role in retail business including: employment, training, performance management, compensation, and providing a safe, ethical and fair environment. This course is a Graduation Composition and Communication Requirement (GCCR) course in certain programs, and hence is not likely to be eligible for automatic transfer credit to UK. Restricted to seniors and Hospitality Management and Tourism and Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles majors.

Prereq: Completion of UK Core Composition and Communication requirement.

Spring Semester
12 Credit Hours
Major Selection
3
Major Selection
3
Professional Support
3
Professional Support
3

Please login to http://myUK.uky.edu to access your major map and personalized degree audit via the myUK Graduation Planning System (myUK GPS).

Apply for Our Scholarships

In addition to automatic and competitive scholarships from the University of Kentucky, our students are also eligible for a variety of awards from the college. With one of the largest college-based scholarship programs, we awarded nearly $1 million to our students during the 2022-23 academic year. These awards are based on a variety of criteria such as hometown, major, career goals, high school extracurriculars, and more. 

For CAFE first-semester freshmen, the scholarship application is now open and will close on January 16, 2024
For CAFE transfer students and current students, the scholarship application opens in January and will close on March 1.

 

Freshmen Housing Program

Live where you learn: 

The Martin-GattonCollege of Agriculture, Food and Environment Living Learning Program (CAFE LLP) is open to all first-semester freshmen at the University of Kentucky.

Through field trips, professional development workshops and service programs, students in our LLP apply their knowledge and passion to global issues at the intersection of food, economics and environment.  All students in this program will also enroll in connected courses, share study groups and have an assigned peer mentor - all to help with the transition to college life. 

Click here for more information on the CAFE LLP. 

Travel Opportunities

Merchandising students may enroll in one of our international programs while earning credit towards their degree. We offer a variety of study, research, intern, and service abroad programs for all budgets and comfort levels. Some students have even earned grants and scholarships to fully fund their international experiences.

These programs are designed to broaden your mind and introduce you to unfamiliar ways of thinking and living. Ultimately, these experiences will make you a more competitive applicant in the global workforce. 

 

 

Pre-Med? Pre-Vet? Pre-Law?

Each year, many of our graduates attend professional schools in areas such as veterinary medicine, law, pharmacy, dentistry, and more. If you are interested in pursuing a similar path, we offer pre-professional advising services. 

Our pre-professional advisors will assist you with: 

  • Listing required courses for respective professional schools 
  • Scheduling pre-professional courses alongside your major requirements 
  • Suggesting supplemental coursework 
  • Connections to student organizations, volunteer work, shadowing experiences, etc.
  • Preparatory information for admission tests
  • Navigating the application process

Click here for more information.

Clubs & Organizations

Students can join organizations and clubs to learn outside the classroom, gain valuable work experience and develop their leadership skills. Many of our students are involved in:

Color Me Spring Fashion Show
students showcase their work in this annual fundraising fashion show

Alternative Service Breaks
providing students with service immersion opportunities and experiences during academic breaks

The Fashion Crew
is collaborative space for students at UK who share the same passion for this wide-ranging field. Students interested in all aspects of fashion are welcome

Student Activities Board (SAB)
contribute to event planning and marketing efforts for events campus-wide and in local communities 

Learn more about Clubs & Organizations in our college.


Imagine Your Future

Sales Managers

Sales managers direct organizations' sales teams.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.

Median Salary

$127,490

per year in 2021

Number of Jobs

469,800

in 2021

10 Year Job Outlook

23,800

new jobs (average)


Imagine Your Future

Management Analysts

Management analysts recommend ways to improve an organization’s efficiency.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.

Median Salary

$93,000

per year in 2021

Number of Jobs

950,600

in 2021

10 Year Job Outlook

108,400

new jobs (average)