Human Sciences (M.S.) - Merchandising Specialization

Program Contact/Coordinator

Jane Hegland, Associate Dean
Department of Consumer Sciences
Wagner Hall 229, Box 2275A
605-688-5196

Program Information

The M.S. in Human Sciences specialization in Merchandising provides an understanding of merchandising at every level, with emphasis on current trends in the United States and the global marketplace, factors that will distinguish graduates among their peers. Students can obtain a focus on the merchandising aspect of the business. The additional expertise offered through the merchandising certificate may position individuals for career advancement or a new career in merchandising. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in product development, promotions, and retail management in this ever-expanding industry.

Course Delivery Format

The online program has been developed by faculty from the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA). Courses will be entirely Internet based and will be taught by faculty within the Alliance (Kansas State University, North Dakota State University, Oklahoma State University, South Dakota State University, and University of Nebraska). Courses are offered fall, spring and summer semesters.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	36 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	36 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

MRCH 510 - Consumer Behavior in Merchandising Credits: 3
MRCH 520 - Professional Advancement in Merchandising Credits: 3
MRCH 530 - Product Design, Development, and Evaluation Credits: 3
MRCH 540 - Promotional Strategies in Merchandising Credits: 3
MRCH 550 - Retail Theory and Current Practice Credits: 3
MRCH 560 - Retail Analytics Credits: 3
MRCH 620 - International Merchandise Management Credits: 3
MRCH 630 - Research Methods in Merchandising Credits: 3
MRCH 640 - Financial Merchandising Implications Credits: 3
MRCH 650 - Strategic Planning in Merchandising Credits: 3

Select from the following options

Option A - Thesis

The thesis option is reserved only for those students who are willing and able to travel to SDSU main campus in Brookings, SD several times during their graduate studies.

MRCH 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-6 (6 credits required)

Option B - Research/Design Paper

MRCH 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-3 and electives for a total of 6 credits

Option C - Coursework Only

MRCH 695 - Practicum (COM) Credits: 1-6 and electives for a total of 6 credits

Total Required Credits: 36 (Option A, B, & C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: Department Requirements of 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .