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Retailing and Consumer Science

Bachelor of Science

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Top 3%

Online Bachelor's Program in the Nation

- U.S. News & World Report, 2024

Top 25

Public Flagship University

- U.S. News & World Report, 2024

Quick Facts

Credits Required: 120
Cost Per Credit: $525
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College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences

Program Details

The Bachelor of Science in Retailing and Consumer Science program allows you to explore the intricacies of consumer behavior, marketing fundamentals, and the best strategies for managing, buying, and selling. 

This interdisciplinary program explores the world of retailing, social commerce, and innovation from a customer-centric perspective. You will develop skills that tap into your creativity and provide the best merchandising and consumer experience possible.

Coursework integrates consumer behavior with retailing, business, and marketing courses to prepare you for emerging careers. This major offers more than four decades of success in getting students into industry internships and launching fulfilling careers. This degree is a gateway to brand management, retailing, marketing, fashion and product design, distribution, and more. Expect hands-on career prep, student trips, and outside workshops. 

The program's partnerships with leaders in the retailing sector provide you with unprecedented access to practical experience that lends itself to professional success after graduation. You will also have the opportunity to network with successful alumni, executives, recruiters, and other professionals who can help you hone your career goals. 

*Residents of some U.S. Territories may not be eligible. Please see our Eligibility & State Authorization page for more information.

Courses

The core curriculum for this program includes:

 

RCSC 114: Introduction to Retailing
RCSC 205: Merchandise Planning and Control
RCSC 205A: Merchandise Planning and Control/Buying Lab
RCSC 240: Consumer Behavior
RCSC 315: Retail Communications Strategy
RCSC 316: Retail Business Analysis
RCSC 316A: Retail Business Analysis Lab
RCSC 384: Leadership, Management, and Ethics

Outcomes

Skills

Earning your Bachelor of Science in Retailing and Consumer Science will build core skills, including:

  • Understanding of retail operations
  • Consumer behavior & insights
  • Leadership & management skills
  • Excel competency
  • Data management
  • Opportunity & risk evaluation
  • Strategic thinking
  • Analytical skills
  • Verbal and written communication

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Retailing and Consumer Science program will be prepared to pursue the following careers:

  • Merchandise Buyer
  • Assortment Planner
  • Pricing Analyst
  • Category Manager
  • Sustainability Specialist
  • Brand Manager
  • Digital Retailer
  • Retail Operations Manager
  • Product Developer
  • Product Manager
  • Product Analyst
  • UX (usability) Specialist
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Marketing Specialist
  • Marketing and Advertising Manager
  • Experiential Marketing Manager
  • Public Relations Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Digital Analyst
  • Digital Content Developer
  • Digital Marketing Manager
  • Social Media Manager
  • Community Manager
  • Sales Manager
  • Manufacturer’s Representative