4-Week Summer College Prep
Unlock Your Fashion Future at NYSD
The New York School of Design (NYSD) invites aspiring designers to join our 4-week intensive Summer College Prep.
Whether you’re building a portfolio, exploring design disciplines, or looking to gain real-world studio experience, our intensive program is specifically designed to prepare talented high school students like you for the rigors and excitement of college-level design programs.

Program Details
Program Dates: July 7th, 2025 – August 1st, 2025 (4 weeks)
Location: New York School of Design Campus – Manhattan, NY
Tuition: $3,200
Off-campus housing (estimated at $900 to $1,500) is available for students traveling from outside the city. Comfortable, supervised housing options include locations within a short, subway commute to campus.
Program Courses
Elements and Principles of Fashion Design
In this course, students will gain a foundation in fashion design through a survey of basic concepts and principles, including design elements, line, form/shape/space, texture, color, balance, proportion, rhythm, emphasis, and unity. Students apply fashion design principles to develop their own design identity, conceptualize creative garments, and communicate with various industry segments by analyzing and deconstructing fashion for specific markets.
Class Duration: 45 hours
Credits: 3 ACE College Credits
Fashion Illustration
Students develop the “Fashion Figure” and create the croquis in a variety of garments. They can render prints and the drape of fabric on a figure and gain the ability to develop their own style of illustration. Students will draw fashion flats and their application to producing apparel. They will create at least 3 rendered fashion looks, curate a process journal as reference for their personal design aesthetic and mood board.
Class Duration: 60 hours
Credits: 2 ACE College Credits
Sewing Basics
The basics of sewing by both hand and machine include seams, ruffles, pleats, zippers, buttons/buttonholes, pockets, and trim or embellishments on muslin and different types of woven fabrics. Fashion terms and processes will be introduced.
Class Duration: 45 hours
Credits: 1 ACE College Credits
ACE Credit Disclaimer: The transferability of ACE credits is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Students are encouraged to check with their intended colleges regarding their transfer credit policies.
Program highlights
Immerse Yourself in Fashion Studios: Learn the fundamentals of fashion research and gain practical sewing skills in our dynamic studio environment.
Portfolio Power-Up: Receive personalized guidance and develop a compelling portfolio that showcases your unique creative vision.
Experience NYC’s Fashion Vibe: Explore the city’s renowned museums, design studios, and cultural hotspots, gaining invaluable real-world inspiration.
College Prep Focused: Get expert advice on college applications and discover exciting career paths within the diverse world of fashion design.
Connect with Fellow Fashion Enthusiasts: Join a vibrant community of like-minded students who share your passion for all things fashion.
NYSD Fashion Design Foundation Certificate: By successfully completing this program, you will earn the NYSD Fashion Design Foundation Certificate. This certificate qualifies you to advance to our Intermediate Fashion Design Certificate program and may also grant you up to 6 ACE-evaluated college credits for potential waivers at US colleges.
Ready to launch your fashion design journey in the heart of New York City?
Spaces are limited for this exclusive summer experience. Submit your application today and take the first step towards your design future.

Learn from the Best: Our Faculty – Your Mentors:
At NYSD, you’ll learn directly from experienced fashion designers who are not only passionate about their craft but also dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talent. Our faculty members bring a wealth of industry knowledge and academic expertise to the studio, providing you with:
- Hands-on training in essential design techniques.
- Real-world insights into the fashion industry.
- Personalized feedback and guidance on your creative projects.
- Mentorship to help you navigate your college and career aspirations.
- Their guidance will not only equip you with practical skills but also inspire your creative vision and understanding of the fashion landscape.
Immerse Yourself in NYC's Iconic Fashion District and earn up to 6 ACE evaluated college credits this Summer at NYSD!
Imagine spending your summer surrounded by the energy and inspiration of New York City’s legendary Fashion District. At NYSD, located right in the heart of it all, our 4-Week Summer College Prep Program isn’t just about learning fashion design – it’s about experiencing it firsthand.