Skip top navigation Skip to main content
Lasell University
Lasell University

School of Fashion

B.A. in Fashion Media and Marketing

Fashion Communication and Promotion

Fashion Media and Marketing at Lasell

A B.A. in Fashion Media and Marketing from Lasell prepares you for all aspects of professional fashion story-telling, from content development to complex multi-media strategies. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of communication in the fashion industry using diverse approaches, platforms, channels, and technologies. 

Program Features

  • Earn industry-recognized certificates as part of your coursework through HubSpot and Google Academy.
  • Gain professional experience through internships; sites have included New Balance, TESstylist, and NewStore among many others. 
  • Travel to NYC to visit fashion corporate offices and showrooms; study abroad with international fashion institutions.
  • Volunteer and work in local fashion events, like Boston Fashion Week. 
  • Learn from experienced faculty who are seasoned professionals, opening doors to the industry.  
  • Partner with a company through the Senior Capstone to develop and pitch strategic business solutions to executives; partners have included Wayfair and Sperry. 

What You'll Learn

From your first day, you’ll take courses in your major and advance towards graduation with a yearly plan. Not sure what classes to take? We’ll help you create the perfect plan. 

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop an awareness of aesthetics and style, yielding a trained ‘eye’ for the fashion industry. 
  • Demonstrate fashion forecasting and analysis ability.  
  • Apply marketing principles, research, theory, and practice within the fashion industry. 
  • Develop brand strategies across various communication channels for products and services. 
  • Design, coordinate, implement, and manage promotional plans.   
  • Work collaboratively with both peers and industry professionals as demonstrated in a Capstone project. 

For a complete list of courses and learning outcomes, view the Academic Catalog >>


Accelerated Master's Program

Save time and money — earn your graduate degree in just 1 year with the Accelerated Master's program. Learn more and how to apply >>

Undergraduate alumni return to Lasell for second (or third!) degrees 
Read their stories >>

Career Success in the Fashion Industry

Lasell’s program in Fashion Media and Marketing prepares students for careers in Talent Relations,
Fashion Event Production, Digital Media, Branding and Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations, and more.

Our students have interned with:

  • Karhu 
  • NewStore  
  • TESstylist  
  • New Balance 
  • KB Fashion Productions
  • Wayfair
  • Marc Jacobs

Our alumni work for:

  • The TJX Companies, Inc. 
  • Nic+Zoe 
  • PUMA Group 
  • Rue Gilt Groupe  
  • Converse 
  • Wolverine Worldwide 
  • Ann Inc. 

Request more information about the Fashion Media and Marketing major:

Loading...

ARTS126 - Fundamentals of Visual Art (KP)

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and strategies for visual art-making and art appreciation, with an emphasis on developing an awareness and sensitivity to art as an integral part of one's life and as a way to complement one's aesthetic needs. This is a lecture course with studio art-making modules designed to complement visual material, critical essays, museum/gallery trips and impart basic skills in visual communication.

BUSS220 - Principles of Marketing

In this course, the fundamentals of marketing are explored for practical application in today's business environment. The process of creating value for customers by utilizing the tools of marketing -- market segmentation, targeting and positioning, marketing research and communications, product development, channels of distribution, and pricing -- are explored with a project-based, interactive approach. Additionally, there is a service learning component included in this course that enables students to further apply the course concepts while working to advance a participating non-profit organization. Prerequisites: BUSS101, COM101, HEM101, HEM102, FASH101, or SMGT102 AND ENG102 or WRT102.

COM101 - Understanding Mass Media

This course surveys the theories, history, economics, audience, and regulations of the major forms of mass media, including newspapers, magazines, motion pictures, radio, television, and new electronic communication. Students develop a basic understanding of the roles of mass media and their effects on society and the individual. The course focuses on the relationship between mass media and society, so students can identify current trends that are changing the nature and function of traditional mass communication. Students examine and debate many current controversial issues concerning the mass media and their effects on our society and culture. Students discuss significant aspects of mass communication, including ethics and policy formulation that are playing key roles in the materialization of a new global communication era.

COM208 - Public Relations

In this course, students explore the evolution, theoretical basis for, and practice of professional Public Relations. Students review the history and current practices of Public Relations and examine the differences between PR and advertising; press relations and public affairs; promotions and news events; marketing and media placements. Students gain insights into the Public Relations function for corporations, high tech companies, government agencies, politics, education, the entertainment industry, sports, and non-profit institutions. Lectures, case studies, readings, group work, guest speakers, and class discussions focus on techniques useful in such areas as local and national publicity, special events, and community and government relations for organizations. Prerequisite: COM101

COM209 - Journalism

Journalism is a fast changing industry and this course prepares students for the change. Students learn to report and produce a variety of news and feature pieces, for print and multi-media platforms, including Q and A interviews, news and feature stories, opinion pieces, reviews, photo galleries, social media campaigns and more. Assignments can be produced on sports, fashion, entertainment, arts and culture, business, politics and more. Students have the opportunity to publish their work in The 1851 Chronicle newspaper and website. Prerequisite: WRT102

FASH101 - The Business of Fashion

The Business of Fashion is a survey course that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the fashion business as it relates to cultural, historic, economic, and contemporary influences, giving students a basic understanding of the terms and concepts associated with the fashion and retail industries. The concepts and practices developed are applicable to the many career paths possible within the Fashion Industry. Topics include: technological applications, environmental influences on fashion, the fashion cycle, trend forecasting, fashion marketing, women's, men's, and children's apparel, supply chain management, product development, foreign and domestic market centers, and retail merchandising on multiple platforms.

FASH102 - The Fashion Consumer

The Fashion Consumer examines the psychological and sociological variables that shape the fashion consumer’s decision-making process. The wants and needs of consumers are explored through an understanding of attitudes, and purchase motivation. Students consider internal and external influencing factors, including the influence of social media and technology, the potential impact of government regulation, the consumer’s perception of self, and their perceived social and ethical responsibilities. The goal of building a strategy towards a satisfied and loyal customer is at the heart of the conversation.

FASH105 - Excel for the Industry

Microsoft Excel is the foundation of business analytical software and has become the number one required skill for industry professionals. This course will introduce basic spreadsheet functions such as; formatting, data entry, pivot tables and analytical graphical display. Projects will directly reflect best industry practices. Students will apply developed skills to projects throughout the fashion curriculum.

FASH200 - Fashion History I:Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution

Fashion History I: Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution surveys the history of prevailing dress and material culture from Ancient Egypt into the nineteenth century, expanding upon a general understanding of shifting modes to examine the symbolism of fashion from extensive perspectives. Students develop a context for fashion and its relation to aesthetic expression and function within various societies over time. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students examine a range of scholarly resources that pertain to the field, including The Lasell Fashion Collection. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: WRT102 or Permission of Instructor

FASH207 - Digital Tools for Fashion

Digital Tools for Fashion equips students with the technical skills and understanding of how to use a variety of software applications, an increasingly in-demand skill in all capacities of the fashion industry. The course introduces students to software used in apparel manufacturing, retail, and media. With a focus on methods of visual communication, projects include technical drawing, colorization, editing, integration and manipulation of photographic images, and video editing basics.

FASH210 - Textiles

Textiles introduces the study of textiles through exploration of the production of fibers and methods of creating fabrics. Students learn to identify fiber content, properties and various types of weaving and knitting applications. Other topics include the study of fiber characteristics, quality and care of fabric finishes, and a practical assessment of fabrics in relationship to particular end-uses.

FASH219 - Fashion Industry Professional Development

Fashion Industry Professional Development is designed to prepare students for entering and building careers in the professional work environment. Students reflect and analyze both themselves and the industry to identify and develop a comprehensive plan for pursuing professional objectives. Students’ professional strategies yield specific, actionable plans and a suite of materials to prepare them for entering the job market. The final outcome is a personal branding suite, including traditional job application materials as well as a digital brand presence and portfolio of industry-relevant course outcomes. Professional communication skills are developed, including networking, job searching, and interviewing. Upon completion of the course, students demonstrate a preparedness for a required internship experience. Prerequisite: FASH102

FASH307 - Fashion Brand Management

Fashion Brand Management introduces students to the myriad of concepts associated with fashion branding and an analysis of brand management theory. Methods for building brand identity, awareness, recognition, loyalty, extensions, and equity are explored, including an examination of the impact of advertising, marketing, thematic control and integrated marketing communications on the perceived value of fashion brands. The course considers influences such as social media, iconic brand ambassadors, cultural branding, and omnichannel communications. Tactics and techniques for influencing brand perception and associations as well as developing a brand ethos and strategy are also covered. External environmental factors that influence brand and the branding process are studied. The brand management process is discussed from inception to consumption and analyzed through contemporary case studies. This course is writing-intensive. Prerequisite: FASH102

FASH308 - Fashion Event Production

Fashion Event Production explores the dynamic components of fashion events. Students develop a working knowledge of event planning and management. A major outcome of the course is a professional large-scale event that is planned, coordinated, managed, and produced by students in the course. Students are responsible for all elements of event preparation, promotion, and all logistics of event execution. Students think strategically about events, from concept to structure to audience experience, and more. The course emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, teamwork, communication, and collaboration as essential elements of successful event production. Prerequisite: FASH211 or FASM218

FASH315 - Trend Forecasting and Analytics

Trend Forecasting and Analytics introduces students to theories, frameworks, and methodologies used to analyze and forecast fashion trends and change. Major macro themes that impact trends are explored, including cultural and societal issues and all elements of zeitgeist. The ability to recognize emerging trends and anticipate aesthetic preferences coupled with the aptitude to ground style intel in concrete numbers and analysis via sales and inventory level forecasts, market data, predictive analytics, and other tools prepares students for both the art and science of formulating a sound fashion forecast. Students also explore the applications, function, and purpose of forecasts within the fashion company. Prerequisite: FASH200, May Take Concurrently

FASH415 - Fashion Industry Internship Seminar

Fashion Industry Internship Seminar is four-credits and includes a field placement and course. Fashion industry exposure and real-world experience is paramount to the fashion student. Supported with resources, students explore the job market to identify challenging, value-adding internship positions during which they gain practical, hands-on industry experience. On-the-job industry exposure is an opportunity to synthesize and apply concepts, theories, and techniques previously learned, both leveraging and adding to industry skill sets and knowledge. Internship experience and seminar learning outcomes include: (1) exposure to and strengthened command of industry dynamics and fashion business operations, (2) first-hand experience in the professional working environment, (3) acquisition of professional skills required for industry and career readiness, and (4) resume and professional network growth. Students complete self-reflection and critical analysis of the internship organization and experience, as well as receive feedback and evaluation from the internship site supervisor. A minimum of 150 hours of supervised onsite work is required and should be in an area of the industry aligned with students’ career objectives. Internship field placement is subject to the approval of the Internship Coordinator and the Lasell University application process and requirements outlined therein. Prerequisites: FASH219 & FASH207 or FASD220

FASH427 - Fashion Industry Capstone

Fashion Industry Capstone is the culmination of the Fashion Merchandising and Management and Fashion Media and Marketing programs. The course synthesizes previous academic, professional, and relevant co-curricular experiences, leveraging knowledge and skills from prior courses, specializations and minors, internship experiences, industry engagement and employment, etc. The course partners with a real company for the duration of the semester and students act as a consulting agency for the firm. Following initial meetings with the company and from analysis and diagnostic assessment of the organization’s position, a comprehensive strategic plan is developed and ultimately presented to senior executive management members within the company. The project involves a company analysis, a review of the competitive landscape, a study of market conditions and trend analysis, and development of a promotional strategy, product mix planning, the proposal of options for new strategic initiatives and an outline of benchmarks to measure feasibility, success, and outcomes. Prerequisite: FASH415, May Take concurrently

FASM218 - Fashion Content Development

This course examines common communication strategies used in the fashion industry. Students analyze the different channels of holistic and brand centered communication. This includes maintaining consistency through various marketing venues, messaging through traditional and new media channels such as social media. Students will develop creative plans in all areas of content including a basic understanding of video use. Guest speakers, connected learning projects, and field trips facilitate the transfer of theory into practice, providing the student with a platform for developing a viable body of work related to fashion communication. Students will also leave the course with industry certification from Hubspot Academy. Prerequisites: WRT102, COM 101 and FASH 101.

FASM306 - Fashion Styling & Photography

Fashion Photo Styling is designed to provide fashion designers, stylists, and merchandisers with an understanding of the conventions and visual traditions of fashion photography. The principles of lighting are discussed particularly as it relates to the creation of mood and image. An exploration of the history of fashion photography familiarizes students with its various visual traditions and styles. The relationship between marketing principles and the determination of style in the context of image usage are explored. Regular photo shoots provide students with hands-on experience of image creation. Prerequisite: FASH207 or FASD205

FASM310 - Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing is a comprehensive course that concentrates on marketing within the virtual world. With a strong focus on the operational and functional aspects of this dynamic subject, the course will review tactical advice and real life examples. The course will cover key topics such as search engine optimization and marketing, retargeting, social media marketing, email marketing, lead generation and calls to action, online experiential marketing and consumer behavior in the virtual world. Students will also be introduced to the history of the internet and fundamentals of an effective digital presence. Students will discuss digital business models and learn the basics of app and website functionality and cross channel promotions. Developing strategies to create apps, websites, and virtual or augmented reality customer experiences will offer a contemporary and visionary opportunity. Integrating skills obtained in FASH207- Digital Tools, students will be fully immersed in the creation of their own fashion digital shopping channels. Prerequisite: FASH105, FASH207 & FASM218

FASM411 - Social and Mobile Strategies

This course is in response to feedback from the SOF advisory board and industry contacts in fashion journalism regarding the need for brand promoters to report digital content from the field, using video and written content generated using mobile applications. Prerequisite: FASM310

FASM412 - Editorial Fashion Production

This course prepares students to produce editorial fashion content within the current media ecosystem. With a focus on fashion media; including art direction, layout, copy editing, and video development. Students will also explore crafting content for both hardcopy and online as well as translating that into multi-platform marketing (Youtube, Instagram, etc.).Outcomes-Art direction, layouts, copyediting, layout, 3d visuals, video development and editing samples suitable for the student’s e-portfolioPrerequisite: FASH315

GRAP308 - Interactive & UX Design

This course offers a deeper exploration of designing and authoring interactive content on a variety of platforms with an emphasis on user experience (UX), building upon skills and strategies acquired in basic web design and graphic design courses. Students will use designer tools such as Adobe Animate and Adobe XD, which offer designers the opportunity to create code-based interactions with minimal knowledge of programming languages, such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and proprietary app building languages and workflows. Prerequisite: GRAP207 Web Design and Development and GRAP105 Digital Design Essentials or equivalent.

MATH106 - Mathematical Reasoning

This course is the foundational course for mathematical and quantitative reasoning at Lasell College. Mathematical reasoning is the critical skill that enables a student to solve real-world problems involving quantitative analysis by making use of particular mathematical skills. Through the development of their mathematical reasoning skills, students will recognize the power of mathematics in its own right as well as its relevance in the real world. Students will develop and enhance their mathematical reasoning skills through a project/application-based curriculum supported by readily available current technological tools and topics that will include, but not be limited to, the following: solving systems of equations, linear programming, statistical, and graphical data analysis.

MATH208 - Statistics

This is an introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include: data analysis, and graphical methods of describing data, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression analysis. Prerequisites: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing and ENG 102.