If you’re looking to break into style-focused industries while benefiting from the convenience of distance learning, an online bachelor’s in fashion program could be the perfect choice for your college education. These programs prepare graduates for a variety of different roles in fashion. Depending on your specialization, you could become a fashion designer (median wage of $79,290) or focus on marketing ($74,680). Regardless of your goals, these online programs are an excellent place to kickstart your career — giving you the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic field.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Fashion degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
The Top 11 Online Bachelor's in Fashion Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Central Michigan University
Intelligent Score: 97.1In-state: $12,296
Out-of-state: $22,881
In-state: $14,223
Out-of-state: $14,223
SAT: 1000-1210
ACT: 20-26
$417 - $434 per credit
Online, On-campus
National Association of Schools of Art and Design
120 credits
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 94.86In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$320 per credit
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
120 credits
Johnson & Wales University
Intelligent Score: 94.14In-state: $34,376
Out-of-state: $34,376
In-state: $14,148
Out-of-state: $14,148
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$495 per credit
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
121 credits
LIM College
Intelligent Score: 90.57In-state: $52,835
Out-of-state: $52,835
In-state: $61,900
Out-of-state: $61,900
SAT: 970-1150
ACT: 18-23
$580 per credit
Online, On-campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
124 credits
Lindenwood University
Intelligent Score: 90.51In-state: $18,000
Out-of-state: $18,000
In-state: $9,450
Out-of-state: $9,450
SAT: 990-1180
ACT: 19-25
$450 per credit
Online, On-campus
Higher Learning Commission
120 credits
Fashion Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 86.87In-state: $7,170
Out-of-state: $21,692
In-state: $11,542
Out-of-state: $11,542
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State? $478 per credit
Out-of-State? $1,446 per credit
Online
National Association of Schools of Art and Design
120-126 credits
Old Dominion University
Intelligent Score: 82.86In-state: $7,029
Out-of-state: $26,664
In-state: $10,207
Out-of-state: $10,207
SAT: 960-1170
ACT: 18-25
Resident? $360 per credit
Non-Resident? $407 per credit
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
North Coast College
Intelligent Score: 82.83In-state: $22,040
Out-of-state: $22,040
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$700 per credit
Online
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
180 credits
Berkeley College
Intelligent Score: 81.49In-state: $50,152
Out-of-state: $50,152
In-state: $40,975
Out-of-state: $40,975
SAT: 1290-1530
ACT: 27-35
$843 per credit
Online, On-campus
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
120 credits
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
Intelligent Score: 78.12In-state: $46,522
Out-of-state: $46,522
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 990-1160
ACT: 18-24
$544 per credit
Online
Higher Learning Commission
123 credits
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 74.56In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390 per credit
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120 credits
What You Should Know About an Online Bachelor’s in Fashion Degree
It’s important to distinguish between fashion design and design in general. While both programs teach students about artwork, colors, and patterns, they express their knowledge differently. Design students work in various contexts, designing everything from packaging and publications to interior spaces like homes and offices, while fashion students focus on elements such as clothing, hair, and footwear.
Students should look for an institution that is approved by one of the DOE-recognized regional accrediting organizations. For example, students pursuing higher education in the New England region should select a school that is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
There are no required licenses or certifications to work in fashion, but most high-end employers will expect candidates to have a degree.
If you are passionate about fashion photography, you should consider online photography degree programs, as this may be a better fit for your personal interests and professional goals.
Finding the Right Online Program
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in fashion programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Many bachelor’s in fashion programs will accept high school graduates with good academic standing and an interest in fashion. However, some programs may require students to submit portfolios and pass design and sewing tests.
- What licensing or certifications are required? Beyond getting your bachelor’s degree, no official licenses or certifications are required to work in the fashion industry. However, if you intend to create your own clothing line and sell your items, you may need to obtain a business license from your state or local government.
While researching programs, keep track of any application deadlines or required submission materials. This information can usually be found on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions department.
Another factor to consider is how to finance your degree. Take the time to research different scholarships, assistantships, and tuition benefits, and be sure to submit applications on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Fashion Programs
What career opportunities are available with an online bachelor’s in fashion degree?
An online bachelor’s in fashion program will provide you with the versatile skillset you need to thrive in this competitive industry. These programs combine creative, technical, and business skills to prepare graduates for diverse roles, including:
- Fashion Merchandiser, analyzing market trends to select and promote products that align with consumer demand
- Fashion Designer, creating innovative apparel and accessories for traditional and digital platforms
- Fashion Marketing Specialist, developing strategies to build brand awareness and engage target audiences
This degree can qualify graduates for design, marketing, and merchandising opportunities, leading to careers in many different niches within the fashion industry.
Are online bachelor’s in fashion degree programs as credible as on-campus programs?
Yes, these programs can be just as credible as on-campus programs. Many online options feature the same faculty and curriculum as their in-person counterparts, ensuring you’ll receive the same high-quality education.
While online programs are more commonly available for fashion merchandising or marketing with the option to specialize in fashion, aspiring fashion designers can still find online options that offer essential design courses and creative tools. These programs provide flexibility without sacrificing credibility, making them a practical choice for anyone pursuing a career in fashion.
How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s in fashion degree program?
These degrees are designed to be completed in four years, similar to traditional on-campus programs. However, the timeline can vary based on whether you study full- or part-time. Some programs offer accelerated options for those with more time to dedicate to their studies, allowing them to earn their degree more quickly. This flexibility makes online programs a great fit for different schedules and goals, whether you’re balancing your education with a full-time job or looking to fast-track your career in fashion.
Are there specialization options within online bachelor’s in fashion degree programs?
This will depend on the specific degree you’re pursuing. For example, students earning a marketing degree can often specialize in fashion to build the necessary knowledge for industry success. Those studying fashion merchandising may focus on specific areas, such as business-related courses, forecasting, or textiles, centering their education around their career goals. Regardless, many online programs prioritize offering specializations to some degree, as these opportunities can help you gain the skills most relevant to your interests.
What is the cost of an online bachelor’s in fashion degree?
The cost of an online bachelor’s in fashion varies by institution, but the average annual tuition for an undergraduate degree was $14,688 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Public schools are generally more affordable than private institutions, and residency status can further influence tuition, with in-state students often paying less. Additionally, part-time or full-time enrollment can affect the overall cost, as part-time students may be charged more per credit.
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