Merchandising Master’s Degree
In the ever changing, global, atmosphere of retailing, the ability to merchandise the product to the consumer is a strategic advantage. Understanding merchandising at every level, which this degree provides, will distinguish a person among their peers. Retailing is a major impact on the U.S. economy; representing 1/3 of the total U.S. economy or $4 trillion. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in product development, promotions, and retail management in this every expanding industry.
Who should consider the program?
An advanced degree or certificate in merchandising is ideal for professionals in a variety of retail-related fields.
Employers: Your employee would obtain a focus on the merchandising aspect of the business—delivering the consumer the right product or service in the right place, in the right quantities, at the right time, and the right price.
Employees and prospective students: You may have chosen retailing, apparel design or business as a profession but don’t have the theoretical background of merchandising. The additional expertise offered through the merchandising master’s could position you for career advancement or a new career in merchandising.
Master’s Degree Requirements
The 36 credit master’s degree program consists of ten required 3-credit courses, listed below, as well as a 6-credit practicum and/or thesis as required by each institution:
- Consumer Behavior
- Professional Advancement
- Professional Strategies in Merchandising
- Product Design, Development and Evaluation
- Financial Merchandising Implications
- Research Methods
- International Retail Expansion
- Retail Theory and Current Practice
- Historical and Contemporary Issues in Trade
- Strategic Planning
The 12 credit graduate certificate program consists of three required 3-credit courses and one elective 3-credit course, listed below.
- Consumer Behavior
- Professional Advancement
- Retail Theory and Current Practice
(and choose one elective)
- Product Design, Development and Evaluation
- Promotional Strategies in Merchandising
About Distance Learning
The Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA) is a consortium offering fully online graduate programs. Each university brings a unique strength to the multi-institution academic programs. In a multi-institution degree program, you apply, and are admitted at one university; enroll in all your courses at that university; and, graduate or receive a certificate from that university. However, your online courses are taught by the best faculty in the discipline from several universities.
The curriculum has been specially adapted to ensure that students receive the same quality of education as an on-campus course. These courses do not have regular meeting schedules, but they are set within the confines of a semester and students are still required to meet deadlines as outlined by the instructor. Students will interact with instructors and other students through e-mail, online chats, discussion boards and other methods.