Undergraduate Certificate in

Adaptive Apparel Design and Merchandising

Online

Program Overview

Learn to design, market and retail apparel that meets the needs of people with disabilities, older adults and individuals with temporary or permanent mobility challenges.

The undergraduate certificate in Adaptive Apparel Design and Merchandising equips learners with specialized knowledge and applied skills that are increasingly sought after across the apparel and retail industries.

The program is well-suited for online students, working professionals or high school graduates seeking specialized training or an additional credential without pursuing a degree.

*The certificate can be completed in one or two summer terms.

Online Program Format

12 Credit Hours

$399 Tuition Per Hour

Design a Career in Adaptive Apparel

Adaptive apparel is one of the fastest growing and most underserved segments of the global apparel market. You will gain a strong foundation in inclusive design, consumer-centered thinking and socially responsible fashion practices.

Application Deadline	Applications accepted year-round
Other Program Specifics	Classes are only offered in summer terms

Curriculum

The curriculum prepares students to contribute meaningfully to a more equitable and accessible apparel landscape. It blends theory with application and project-based activities to build practical job-ready skills.

Required Courses

CTD 213 Introduction to Adaptive Apparel
CTD 253 Introduction to Adapted Apparel Design
CTD 383 Adaptive Apparel Marketing and Retail
CTD 453 Advanced Adapted Apparel Design

Total: 12 credit hours

A certificate in Adaptive Apparel Design and Merchandising will set you on the path to pursue several careers.

Whether your goal is to join an established apparel brand, contribute to a specialty adaptive apparel company, work in retail or launch your own inclusive fashion venture, this certificate provides the targeted expertise and practical experience needed to make a meaningful impact.

Career pathways supported by this certificate include:

Adaptive apparel designer or product developer
Apparel merchandiser or buyer specializing in inclusive products
Retail or e-commerce specialist for adaptive apparel brands
Brand, marketing or consumer insights coordinator
Entrepreneur or innovator in inclusive fashion

Admission

To apply for formal admission to any of the undergraduate programs offered through UA Online, you must complete an admissions application and submit transcripts from all colleges previously attended. Transfer students considering admission should review UA’s transfer information and policies.

Applicants must meet one of the following admission requirements:

If you have earned more than 24 college-level credit hours at the time of your application to the University, you will need to meet the transfer student admission requirement of a minimum 2.0 overall college GPA.
If you have earned less than 24 college-level credit hours at the time of your application to the University, you will need to meet both the 2.0 overall college GPA required for transfer students, as well as the Admission Requirements for Freshmen Students. If high school graduation was more than four years ago, ACT/SAT scores are not required.

Find more information and learn about restrictions related to this program that may exist regarding licensure in the state in which you reside.

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