Fashion Design Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Design and creation of clothing, accessories, and footwear.
Starting Salary
$40K
median
Mid-Career
$62K
salary
ROI Payback
6.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4.5%
rate
Fashion Design Overview
Design and creation of clothing, accessories, and footwear.
Category
Arts & Design
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
58%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
28%
Lifetime Premium
$250K
Female Graduates
85%
Fashion Design Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$18,900
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$18,900
after scholarships
ROI Payback
4 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$231,100
Lifetime earnings premium ($250,000) minus net degree cost ($18,900)
Fashion Design Salary Progression
Common Fashion Design Careers
Fashion Designer
Technical Designer
Merchandise Planner
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Fashion Design
#1
Parsons
#2
FIT
#3
RISD
#4
Central Saint Martins
#5
Pratt
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Fashion Design Degree FAQ
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