FAQs

What are the degree requirements to be a TAM major?
Degree requirements vary depending on which emphasis area is chosen, and the general education requirements of the College of Human and Environmental Sciences are followed. These requirements can be obtained from the student services office in the College Human Environmental Sciences (Gwynn 117). Incoming Freshman, with careful planning, may be able to complete both the Merchandising and Marketing and the Product Development options.

What prior experience is needed to get into the program?
No prior experience is required; experiences in a wide array of areas will be presented early on in the program in order to better direct students' interest areas.

How long does it take a typical student to complete a degree?
Four years. (8 full time semesters)

What kinds of jobs are available, to someone with a TAM degree?
There are endless arrays of options such as buying, marketing, manufacturing, management as well as many others. See the careers page on this web site for further details. LINK TO CAREERS PAGE

Do you have fashion design at MU?
TAM does not have courses specifically directed toward design, however we have manufacturing courses that are directed toward the design aspect of the field. Corresponding classes through Stephens College in Columbia are also available for those who what specific design courses to supplement TAM's marketing, merchandising, manufacturing and international emphases.

How much math is required for your degree program?
College algebra, basic statistics, some basic accounting as well as specific classes depending on your chosen emphasis area.

I cannot draw, how much illustration will I have to do?
It is not necessary to be an artist; some classes will require you to be able to communicate basic ideas through sketching basic forms. Computer aided design is also taught.

Can I get an internship? Is an internship required?
Internships are not required, however they are a great way to experience all that the industry has to offer and to apply what is learned in your classes. Many companies actively interview on campus for students who wish to apply their knowledge and actively participate in learning all that they can.

Can I study abroad? Where?
Many students choose to study abroad and can do so through many programs from a variety of Universities as well as our own. A large number of areas throughout the world can be chosen as destinations. To learn more, check out MU's Study Abroad page.

Who do I talk to, to make sure I am on track to graduate?
Vikki Shahan in the Office of Student Services in Gwynn 117.
CONTACT: (573) 882-6424 or shahanvi@missouri.edu
Graduation checks are also done in Gwynn 117. Students are assigned a faculty advisor upon entrance into the program who will be happy to instruct and direct their student advisee to their individual track toward graduation.

Where do I go to get my graduation regalia?
Graduation gown and cap can be purchased from the MU bookstore during specially designated days when during each semester. Watch for announcements for the graduation fairs that are held each semester in Brady Commons.

What is the average class size?
The average class size is 40 students ranging from smaller 10-20 person interactive opportunities to some larger lecture style classes that give the feel of the large university and latest in teaching technology.

What is the student teacher ratio?
About 40:1 The College is a personalized and friendly environment, which combines the benefits of being part of a large and respected university, with a smaller school feeling of being able to be recognized and have relationships with faculty, staff and other students.

Are there males in the TAM?
The TAM department is open and occupied by all sexes, races and ethnicities and reflects the diversity of the university. The ratio of male to female is narrowing every semester.

What is the job placement rate?
Many well-respected companies both large and small recruit and hire a large portion of our graduates for positions throughout the country and the world, for many diversified positions.

How much contact does the TAM program have to do with the industry?
The TAM department is well established and respected throughout the industry with our world-renowned professors and annual advisory board, which enables us to have constant contact with most aspects of our industry.

Are there scholarships available through the department to help cover the cost of school?
Many scholarships from both the department and the college are available for members of the TAM department.