Design Merchandising 442

DSNM 442: Economics of Design

Prerequisites: Senior Standing; Passing Internship Review Assessment; ECON 105 with a "C" or better; 2.5 in-major GPA

Credit Hours: (3)

This 3 hours lecture course studies the economic, governmental and environmental factors which affect the various segments of the textile, apparel and interiors complex, individually and as a whole. The factors are reviewed and evaluated from a domestic and international perspective.


Detailed Description of Course
The topics covered include history of the textile/apparel/interiors complex and recent changes in the domestic and international sectors; economic development, economic systems and trade theories; the textile/apparel/interiors complex in the domestic and international economies; textile/apparel/interiors production and trade in the global economy; textile/apparel/interiors trade policies; logistics; and the future of the U.S. textile/apparel/interiors complex in the international setting.


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Lecture will used to consider the textile/apparel/interiors industries in a global context. Class discussions will enable the student to synthesize and assimilate information.


Goals and Objectives of the Course
As a result of this course, the student will demonstrate:
1. Knowledge of the major strategies implemented by various industry sectors and governments.
2. Understanding of the major changes in the domestic and global textile/apparel/interiors complex (production, distribution, consumption, trade, technology, and government intervention).
3. Understanding of the implications of these changes in the sectors of the textile/apparel/interiors complex.
4. Understanding of ethics in the global market place.
5. Understanding of the impact of economic changes on various market sectors.
6. Comprehension of corporate social responsibility in the textile/apparel/interiors complex.


Assessment Measures

Assessment of student work will be based on tests, assignments, and group projects. Group projects may include case studies, market sectors, and trade agreements.


Other Course Information


Review and Approval
March 2010