Ready to change the fashion world as a designer, merchandiser, or marketer? Get your start at one of the six fashion schools in Virginia. Three of these schools offer graduate programs in addition to the undergraduate programs offered at all six schools.
Tuition costs range from $7,943 to $24,900, and the average tuition cost is $18,047. However, there are many scholarship opportunities in Virginia. Virginia Tech offers three fashion scholarships for excellent students. Virginia Commonwealth University has a list of over two dozen fashion scholarships that can significantly reduce your financial costs.
The career options that are available to you as a fashion graduate depend largely on what type of degree you have. However, most job openings are at marketing firms, design companies, and retailers. Primary employers in Virginia include Destination XL Group, DSW Shoes, and Boutique Marketing Firm. This may be a great place to start your career; Virginia has a low unemployment rate of 5.2% (BLS, 2013).
While you may start at the low end of the salary scale, your income potential is likely to increase as you become more experienced. Vermont fashion designers earn an average salary of $45,540 per year, and merchandise displayers earn an average salary of $27,830 (BLS, 2012).