Associate of Arts - Apparel Design and Mechandising

The College of Alameda's Apparel Design and Merchandising (ADAM) program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in the apparel industry. The apparel industry is the second largest industry in the United States. The San Francisco, Oakland Bay Area is one of the largest apparel manufacturing and retailing centers in the nation. Leading California companies in the area that employ ADAM graduates include Levi Strauss & Co., Old Navy, The Gap, Gymboree, Byer, Banana Republic, and Uniqlo.

Upon completion of this program a student will be able to: • Students will acquire the basic skills and knowledge needed to obtain, compete, and sustain gainful employment within the vast global field of the fashion industry. • Students will be able to communicate and present themselves effectively with confidence in a diverse global fashion market. • Design, sketch, cost and select appropriate fabric and trims for several outfits in various garment and price categories. • Articulate in a clear written or oral dissertation the steps involved in the production pattern and size grading process. • Analyze critically the rationale used in applying basic drafting principles, methods and techniques learned in class to the solving of new concepts and ideas. • Develop a portfolio for an original clothing collection.