Frequently Asked Questions
Why is HCC “the fashion design school of choice?”
As an HCC Central fashion design student you will study in “state of the
art” studio classrooms with experienced fashion professionals for your
instructors. You will have the opportunity to explore the fashion capitals of
the world during fashion study trips to Paris, Milan, Madrid, London, New
York, Hong Kong and Dallas. Our students consistently win in competitions
against students from the most prestigious fashion design schools in the
world and go on to become successful professionals. This fashion design
program was named one of the top associate degree programs in the
United States by the National Council of Instructional Administrators and
was awarded exemplary program status by the Texas Higher Education
Coordinating Board.
What kind of degree can I earn?
An Associate in Applied Science Degree is available through the Fashion
Design program. The program also offers certificates in Apparel Construction,
Custom Dressmaking & Alterations, Men’s Tailoring & Alterations and
Patternmaking.
How long will it take me to complete this program?
The Fashion Design Degree Program is a five-semester program. If you do
not need developmental course work and you register for 15 credit hours
during most Fall and Spring semesters, along with 12 credit hours during the
summer semester, you can complete the degree in two years. The Fashion
Design Certificate programs (Apparel Construction, Custom Dressmaking
& Alterations, Men’s Tailoring & Alterations and Patternmaking) take one to
three semesters to complete.
Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking
courses?
You must either have a high school diploma or have passed an equivalency
examination.
What will I be able to do when I complete this program?
The Fashion Design Program provides the training required for entry-level
employment by the mass production ready-to-wear industry or for custom
design business operations. The Apparel Construction Certificate Program
prepares you for entry level work in a garment factory or fashion design studio.
The Custom Dressmaking and Alterations Certificate Program prepares you
for entry level work in ladies’ clothing alterations, custom dressmaking, and
designer’s sample sewing. The Men’s tailoring and Alterations Certificate
Program prepares you for entry-level work in men’s clothing alterations and
custom tailoring. The Patternmaking Certificate Program prepares you for
entry level work in ladies’ ready-to-wear patternmaking, pattern grading, and
pattern marker making.
What kind of salary can I expect?
Typically, Fashion Designers may expect starting salaries in the range of
$23,600 to $54,000. Tailors, dressmakers, sample sewers or custom
clothiers may expect starting salaries in the range of $21,260 to $35,000.
How do I apply?
HCC Central is an open door college. Anyone over the age of 18 may submit
a complete application.
