Retail and Merchandising Management, BS
Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders in Retail and Fashion
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Retail and Merchandising Management (RMM) and step into the dynamic world of retail and fashion. Our program provides the strategic insights, analytical skills, and hands-on experience needed to excel in roles such as buying, brand management, e-commerce, and retail analytics.
Program Overview
Looking to launch a career that’s exciting, dynamic, and full of potential? With a Bachelor of Science in Retail and Merchandising Management (RMM), turn your passion for fashion, retail, and innovation into a career you’ll love. Whether you dream of leading top retail brands, shaping the future of e-commerce, creating unforgettable customer experiences, or mastering the art of product development, RMM sets you up for rapid career growth in one of the most dynamic industries.
In RMM, you’ll gain hands-on experience and career-ready skills like data analysis, leadership, and consumer insights—skills that will take you far no matter where your career path leads. Whether you’re passionate about fashion, technology, or strategy, this major helps you build a career that’s as exciting as the industry itself.
From global fashion brands to cutting-edge e-commerce platforms, you bring the vision, and we’ll help you turn it into a career.
Why Study Retail and Merchandising Management?
Personalized Learning in a Supportive Environment
Our intimate program size fosters close relationships with faculty and peers, creating a collaborative and engaging learning experience. Students receive individualized academic and career mentoring, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in the retail industry.
Customizable Degree with Retail Expertise & Strong Job Placement
Students can tailor their degree by specializing in Fashion Retailing or Merchandising Analytics while also earning a Business Administration minor, providing a strong foundation in general retail business principles. With a 90%+ job placement rate at or shortly after graduation, RMM graduates enter the workforce with confidence and competitive skills.
Industry-Focused Skills for a Competitive Edge
The RMM program equips students with essential skills in customer behavior, product management, inventory optimization, and retail sales strategies. With a focus on both applied and soft skills, graduates enter the workforce ready to navigate the fast-paced retail environment.
Exciting Career Opportunities With Top Brands
RMM graduates secure positions at leading companies such as Amazon, Kohl’s, Belk, Wayfair, Ulta Beauty, and Tractor Supply, with many advancing into high-level roles. Career paths range from buying, product development, and brand management to e-commerce strategy, retail analytics, and supply chain operations. The program’s flexibility allows students to tailor their careers to their passions, whether in fashion, beauty, or major retail corporations.
Hands on Learning Opportunities
The RMM program immerses students in real-world, industry-centered learning that builds strategic thinking, creativity, and leadership. These signature experiences prepare students to excel in the fast-moving retail and fashion landscape.
International Study Tours for Retail & Fashion – Explore global markets, cultural retail strategies, and emerging fashion brands. Visit iconic companies and learn directly from industry leaders abroad.
Rocky Top Institute – Join a two-year student-run retail venture. Gain hands-on experience in product development, merchandising, sales, and operations while making real business decisions.
UT Creamery – Apply retail management skills in a fully functioning on-campus business. Build expertise in operations, marketing, customer service, and team leadership.
Product Development & Retail Innovation – Design and launch original products in partnership with industry professionals. Student creations have been sold through Vol Shops and major local retailers.
Fashion Show Production and Management – Produce the annual fashion show from concept to runway. Direct styling, model casting, marketing, and retailer partnerships—building portfolio-ready work and leadership experience.
Data-Driven Decision Making – Use analytics and consumer insights to solve real industry challenges, presenting recommendations to corporate teams during site visits for professional-level feedback.
What can you do with a degree in Retail and Merchandising Management after graduation?
With a degree in Retail and Merchandising Management, the possibilities are endless! Graduates are equipped for dynamic careers in fashion, beauty, e-commerce, and retail management. Our alumni thrive in leadership roles at top companies and successfully launch their own businesses, carving their own paths to success. You can too! Explore a variety of exciting career paths available to our graduates, including:
Career paths you can pursue with an HTM degree:
Buyer
Shape trends and select products that will make a mark in the industry.
Brand Manager
Lead the marketing and development of iconic brands.
Product Developer
Create and launch innovative retail products that captivate consumers.
E-Commerce Manager
Optimize online retail strategies and enhance customer experiences.
Retail Analyst
Analyze data to uncover insights that boost sales and consumer engagement.
Visual Merchandiser
Craft unforgettable in-store experiences through design and display.
Store, Regional, or Divisional Manager
Lead retail teams and oversee operations for success across locations.
Social Media Strategist
Grow and manage a brand’s online presence, connecting with audiences in exciting ways.
Entrepreneur
Launch and run your own retail or fashion business, shaping your vision, gaining creative freedom, and reaping the rewards of success.
Ready to make your mark in the fast-paced world of retail? Your journey starts with us!
Looking back on my journey through the RMM program, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The curriculum pushed me to think critically and creatively, and the hands-on projects allowed me to apply what I was learning in real-world situations. But what made it truly special were the people—the professors who genuinely care about your growth and the friends who become your support system.
Camryn K.
Class of 2025
Featured Courses
RMM 300 – Fashion Trend Analysis and Forecasting
Explore the intersection of fashion, culture, and consumer behavior to forecast future trends. Gain valuable skills in predicting shifts in theme, color, fabrics, and design, applicable across various fields in fashion and retail.
RMM 310 – Retail Buying and Merchandising
Explore how retail buyers plan assortments, forecast demand, and allocate inventory. Through hands-on Excel work and industry cases, develop the analytical skills essential for today’s data-driven merchandising roles.
RMM 320 – Product Development
Unleash your creativity in product development! Learn to design and build apparel lines from the retailer’s perspective, focusing on brand management, textile principles, specification writing, and creating products that resonate with target markets.
RMM 410 – Strategic Retail Planning
Master the art of strategic retail management! Learn to develop and implement retail strategies with a focus on financial planning, operational efficiency, and customer engagement, preparing you to lead in today’s competitive retail landscape.
RMM 425 – Retail Category Management
Gain hands-on experience in retail space planning and vendor management using cutting-edge software! Learn to optimize shelf and floor space with JDA software, leveraging data from both vendors and retailers for strategic decision-making.
RMM 451 – Rocky Top Retail Strategies
Dive into the development and management of the Rocky Top Brand! Gain hands-on experience in product development, licensing, operations, promotion, and analytics, equipping you with the skills to drive retail success.
Retail and Merchandising Management Major: Two Exciting Concentrations
Our program offers two specialized concentration options: Fashion Retailing and Merchandising Analytics. Each concentration prepares students for dynamic careers in one of the fastest-growing sectors of our economy.
Fashion Retailing Concentration
Dive into the world of fashion retail with hands-on experience and industry knowledge. Students in this concentration learn the principles of retailing, merchandise management, and consumer behavior, preparing for entry-level roles in fashion retail, from store management to visual merchandising. With field study opportunities and industry connections, you’ll gain real-world experience that often leads to career placement upon graduation.
Merchandising Analytics Concentration
Combine your passion for retail with data-driven decision-making. The Merchandising Analytics concentration equips students with the skills to analyze retail data, forecast trends, and drive consumer insights. You’ll gain the expertise to optimize retail strategies and business operations through both classroom instruction and field-based experience, setting you up for success in the evolving retail landscape.
Ready to launch your career in retail? Explore both concentrations and find the path that best fits your passion for fashion, business, and analytics.
Complementary minor
To enhance your major and broaden your academic experience, consider a minor that pairs well with your BS degree. Additional minors may also align with your interests and goals. Explore all available options to find the best fit for your academic and career aspirations.
Our Minor
We offer the Retail and Merchandising Management minor that will add value to your academic journey.
RMM Student Organization
National Retail Federation Student Association – Affiliated with the National Retail Federation, this vibrant university club offers students exciting opportunities for professional development and industry engagement. Members gain access to exclusive networking events, industry insights, and hands-on experience, including the chance to participate in the prestigious National Retail Federation Student Program in New York City. This event opens doors to internships and career opportunities, helping students build invaluable connections that can shape their future in retail
Meet Your Advisor
At RHTM, your success is our top priority. We provide personalized academic guidance, career preparation, and wellness support to help you excel in your studies and future career. Join a supportive community committed to empowering you every step of the way.
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Admissions and aid
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is dedicated to supporting your educational journey with accessible and affordable options. Learn about our tuition costs and explore various financial aid opportunities, including specialized support for veterans and more. We’re here to help you navigate every step as you pursue your academic goals.