Merchandising Certificate

Location(s): Online

Program Coordinator/Contact

Nancy Lyons, Professor Emerita
School of Health and Consumer Sciences
Wagner Hall 425, Box 2275A
605-688-5161

Program Information

The certificate provides an introduction to merchandising, with emphasis on current trends in the United States factors that will distinguish graduates among their peers. Graduates with a certificate are prepared to work in product development, promotions, and retail management in this ever-expanding industry.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the ability to identify and understand theories, principles, practices and terminology related to the merchandising industry.
Students will demonstrate strong research, analytical and strategic decision-making skills.

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.

Certificate 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
or MRCH 540 - Promotional Strategies in Merchandising Credits: 3
MRCH 550 - Retail Theory and Current Practice Credits: 3

Total Required Credits: 12

Additional Admission Requirements

TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Please refer to the following for additional information: Graduate School Admission

Additional Information

Students enrolled in SDSU certificate programs are not eligible for federal student financial aid. The non-federal alternative loan programs may be used for students meeting the lender criteria as found at www.sdstate.edu (search alternative loans). For further information, please contact the SDSU financial aid office at 605-688-4695 or finaid@sdstate.edu.