Applied Arts courses are offered both as requirements supporting majors in Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising and as electives for students throughout the University.
Students in Applied Arts courses investigate the physical properties of natural and man-made resources and master some of the technical skills needed to construct, design, display, and market fashion products. Those entering the retailing or design fields find in these courses an overview of the fashion industries ranging from creation of raw material to manufacturing and the promotion of products to consumers. Exposure to Applied Arts concepts is also useful to those interested in business and communications careers and in personal lifelong recreation.
Many of the courses are taught in the clothing design and drafting studios housed in Gailhac Hall. A showcase feature of the Applied Arts offerings is the fashion show planned and produced by students, many of whom receive their first career application through exhibition of their own designs.