How to Find Fashion Schools in Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia, has been called the heart and cultural center of the "New South." Both in-house and on-line classes are offered in the study of fashion and beauty. Students in Atlanta would have a variety of business and cultural experiences available to them.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Resume
• Samples or photographs of your art
• High school transcripts or GED
• SAT or ACT scores

Instructions

Decide what kind of degree you want

1. Decide if you would rather attend an on-campus or on-line program. Taking classes in person can be helpful for students who thrive in a hands-on environment. On-line classes are excellent for students who do not live close to their chosen school or are unable to attend classes at the times offered. Both Associate (usually 2-year) and Bachelor (usually 4-year) degrees are offered in fashion in Atlanta or through on-line universities.

2. Request information and application packets from the schools that interest you. Application or information packets are usually free, and often can be found at the school's website.

3. Visit a campus or ask if the school offers tours. Some schools may allow you to sit in on a class before deciding to enroll.

Earning a Bachelor degree in fashion

1. Complete high school or take a high school equivalency test. This step is not required for all fashion schools, but is required if you want to obtain a Bachelor degree.

2. Take the SAT or ACT, including the writing portion. Because your score will be part of the admission process it is important to study before these tests. At a minimum, be familiar with the format of the test and how much time you have for each portion.

3. Bachelor and Master degrees in fine arts are offered at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Classes can be taken at the Atlanta campus. This is an on-campus program that requires you to physically attend class. All applicants are automatically reviewed for academic scholarship consideration. Application to this school does require high school transcripts or GED as well as SAT scores.

4. A creative portfolio is not required for this school, but including one with your application will help your chance of being granted an artistic scholarship.

5. Ask teachers, employers, community leaders, or counselors for letters of recommendation. SCAD accepts up to three recommendations. Make sure these letters are from people who know you.

6. Follow the link below for specific application deadlines. In general, applications for fall quarter should be received by the college no later than March 1 to be considered for scholarship oppotunities.

7. Westwood College also offers a Bachelor degree in fashion specializing in interior design. Atlanta has two Westwood College campuses, Northlake and Midtown, and also offers classes online. Westwood is a good alternative for students who need more flexibility in class time and availability. Application requirements for Westwood are similar to SCAD. For a Bachelor program you just cannot get away from the high school equivalency and SAT or ACT requirements.

8. The Art Institute of Atlanta also offers a Fashion and Retail Arts Bachelor degree. Requirements for admission are similar to SCAD and Westwood College.

Earning an Associate degree in fashion

1. Complete high school or take a high school equivalency test.

2. American InterContinental University at Buckhead offers two Associate degrees in fashion marketing and fashion design, as well as a Bachelor degree in interior design. SAT or ACT scores are not required for the Associate degree application at this school.

3. Bauder College also offers two Associate degrees in Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising. The application requirements are similar to American InterContinental University.

Tips & Warnings

• Look up your favorite designers and find out where they went to school.

• Non-English speakers or students who attended school outside the United States may be required to complete the TOEFL exam to prove English proficiency.

• Check the accreditation of any school. If you are looking to complete an Associate of Bachelor degree, make sure the school is accredited by a reputable association.

• Ask for a list of fees before you apply.

• Ask if the school offers scholarships and when the deadlines are to apply.

Resources

• American InterContinental University
• Westwood College Online
• Bauder College
• Art Institute of Atlanta
• Savannah College of Art and Design - Atlanta campus