Coopersmith Career Consulting | Evaluated Learning Experience
Visual Merchandising (FAS-305)
Varies (self study, self-paced).
Version 1: December 2019 – March 2025. Version 2: April 2025 - Present.
Version 1 and 2: Upon successful completion of this learning experience, students will be able to: identify and analyze the effectiveness of retail window displays based on design elements used to create a display; apply the elements and principles of design to visual merchandising; identify fixtures, props, signage, mannequins and display furnishings used in retail stores; describe the color wheel and identify color terminology; analyze a retail store layout by completing a retail store audit; create a 2-dimensional store planogram using appropriate computer-aided design software; plan or create a 3-dimensional shadow box or window display; critique the visual and operational elements of a fashion show; track, analyze, and interpret trends in visual merchandising and anticipate future needs within the industry; and research themes and visual presentations to develop additional design concepts.
Version 1 and 2: This course provides an overview of visual merchandising. Students learn how to design a customer experience in brick and mortar stores and translate brand identity through design basics. Major topics include the importance of design elements including line, composition, color and lighting, fashion shows and special events.
Version 1: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Visual Merchandising or Visual Communication (1/20). Version 2: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category OR in the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Visual Merchandising or Visual Communication (4/25 revalidation).