Accreditation for Associate Degree is in

Doorn, December 12, 2023 - A practice-oriented business course that prepares students in two years for a successful career in the fashion industry. That is the new and only Dutch hbo study Associate degree Fashion Business Professional that will start in February 2024. The program was officially recognized by the government this week so that students are entitled to DUO study financing. This program at TMO Fashion Business School focuses on sustainability, marketing and digitalization, but fashion trends, sales and management are also covered. The teachers are professionals with broad experience in the fashion industry and much attention to talent development. The study consists of one and a half years of interactive classes followed by six months of graduation internship, making it perfect for those who want to enter the job market quickly. There is a growing demand in that market for professionals with a sustainable view of fashion and fashion-related businesses. The course was developed from this industry need to meet the demand for tactically trained professionals.

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TMO Fashion Business School

Getting started in the fashion industry

Those who receive the Associate degree Fashion Business Professional are well prepared to work in the fashion industry. Various positions at a variety of companies, both on the production and consumer side, are a good fit. In addition to (business) clothing, textiles and footwear, sports, beauty, living and lifestyle are among the industries where these fashion professionals come into their own - both nationally and internationally. The program emphasizes practical skills and combines a broad basic knowledge of the industry with business administration. Thus, upon completion of this degree, a person can start immediately in various assistant positions. The Associate degree is an official college degree at level 5; those who wish to continue their studies can enter the third year of TMO bachelor BBA in Fashion (level 6). 

Sound knowledge, hands-on mentality

Yvonne Kanters, managing director of TMO Fashion Business School on the new program: "We created this unique Associate degree in response to direct requests from our network in the market. There is a great need for people with thorough knowledge of the fashion industry, who at the same time have a hands-on mentality - and that is exactly what our Fashion Business Professionals will soon be entering the work field with. We work closely with fashion (retail) entrepreneurs and often speak with former students. They share their knowledge and experience, as well as their questions. This way students always receive up-to-date education and a diverse and realistic picture of the latest developments, needs and trends in the industry. As TMO, we see it as our mission to contribute to a sustainable fashion world. With this program, we do that by training future-ready young professionals who are both innovative and entrepreneurial." 

Practical information

For this course of study, a preliminary mbo4, HAVO or VWO education is required. The Associate degree is a private degree program, divided into four six-month semesters. Over 90% of current TMO bachelor's students have a job at the college level shortly after graduation, a large proportion are offered a job on the graduate internship.