Program Highlights

The Apparel Program has a long history at Virginia Tech. The program currently has over 5,000 alums, 202 undergraduates, and 21 graduate students. This program is unique in Virginia and the United States by offering the B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in the design and merchandising of apparel products. An emphasis on computer technology adds to the expertise of the graduates. Supporting courses in textiles at the undergraduate level add an understanding of the raw materials used for apparel. Recent B.S. graduates are employed by design and retail companies including The Limited, Nike, Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Norma Kamali, Di Lorenzo Designs, Calvin Klein, Etienne Aigner, Woolrich, Macy's, Nordstrom's, and Oscar de la Renta. M.S. graduates are sought for positions in retail management, textile and apparel production, and computer-aided design. Ph.D. graduates are in teaching, research, and Extension and research positions in major universities in the U.S. and abroad.

This program has a valuable 5,000-plus piece Oris Glisson Historic Costume and Textile Collection. The collection includes historically significant wedding dresses and apparel.