PLC DETROIT Launches Inaugural Two-Year Degree Program in Collaboration with Foot Locker

PLC Detroit has taken a major step towards reopening the first design-focused HBCU with the launch of its inaugural Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs, developed with the support of longtime education partner Foot Locker.

This comprehensive, learn-by-doing two-year degree program prepares students for dynamic careers in footwear design, apparel design, and color strategy design within the global fashion industry. As a source of creative vision, PLC Detroit's accelerated program is a significant stride toward accreditation and reopening the college.

PLC continues to set the standard in education, believing that learning goes beyond instilling knowledge; it fosters the belief that anything is possible. Their curriculum is co-created with industry partners to closely resemble real-world design environments. With competitive tuition that balances affordability for HBCUs and design schools, PLC fully embraces the HBCU culture, hosting annual events featuring top designers from various industries.

Unlike any other two-year degree program, PLC Detroit offers unique opportunities.

Unique Opportunities Include:

• Foot Locker scholarships available for eligible students
• Industry-sponsored certificate programs after the first and second years
• Paid industry internships after both the first and second years
• Industry-sponsored projects during the second year

The forward-thinking HBCU strategically aligns with brands such as Nike, Jordan Brand, Adidas, New Balance, HOKA, Puma, Coach, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Timberland, Detroit Pistons, Carhartt, Doritos, and more.

PLC Detroit boasts faculty with unmatched experience dedicated to shaping the next generation of industry leaders.

Meet the Faculty

• E. Scott Morris serves as the Chair of Footwear. He is a veteran footwear designer with over 30 years of experience at top brands like Nike, Reebok, and Under Armour. Throughout his career, Morris has held senior-level positions, including Senior Creative Director of Footwear Design at Under Armour, Senior Design Director at Anta Sports Ltd., and Designer at ESM. He is dedicated to inspiring and instructing fellow designers to create formidable products.

• Sam Ryan is the Chair of Apparel & Accessories bringing close to 30 years of experience in the apparel industry. He has worked with iconic brands like Jordan Brand/Nike, Champion, and And1 Basketball, taking on roles from Designer to Creative Director. He has mastered brand strategy, line planning, and product execution, playing a key role in creating collections that blend functionality with style. At PLC, he empowers students through immersive learning and industry partnerships, fostering a collaborative environment for skill development.

• Suzette Henry is the Chair of the Color and Material Department and founder of the MLab at PLC Detroit, with over 30 years of experience promoting sustainable supply chains. The MLab partners with diverse suppliers to showcase seasonal products, driving innovation in color, material, and finishes (CMF) design. The associate degree in Color Strategy Design enhances educational access with a vendor-to-student pipeline and fosters creativity in color design. Through her CMF curriculum, students collaborate with a passion for color and tactility, encouraging brands to view design as a sustainable solution for the planet.

The PLC Detroit AAS equips students with essential skills and practical applications to excel in the competitive product industry. The accelerated curriculum covers topics such as the history of apparel, digital designing, product strategy, and brand building.

“We’ve been working towards this for three years since we opened on May 2, 2022, while simultaneously pursuing accreditation,” states PLC president Dr. D'Wayne Edwards. “I’m excited to announce that the inaugural class will have their tuition reduced, thanks to generous Foot Locker Scholarships.”

All programs emphasize hands-on learning and building professional networks to prepare graduates for successful careers.

PLC Detroit offers three AAS programs:

• Apparel Design will equip graduates for roles such as Associate Designer, entry-level CAD Designer, Assistant Technical Designer, Associate Product Line Manager, Merchandise Assistant, and Graphic Designer. With a foundation of critical and creative thinking, technical skills, and professional acumen, graduates will be job-ready for careers in product design, product development, and brand building.

• Color Design Strategy will prepare graduates to take on roles such as Entry-Level Color Designer, Color Specialist, Color Consultant, and Color Graphic Designer. They will be able to work in various settings, including design studios, manufacturing companies, retail organizations, start-ups, and consulting firms.

• Footwear Design will ensure graduates are ready for roles related to conceptual ideation, footwear design, and digital implementation that meets the professional level standards required across the global footwear industry.

The program will also offer opportunities for internships and co-op experiences, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and build their professional networks. By the end of the program, graduates will showcase a strong portfolio, demonstrating their design skills and readiness for a successful career in the vibrant world of apparel design.

PLC Detroit encourages aspiring designers to seize this unique opportunity to embark on their creative journeys in a vibrant, hands-on learning environment.

For more information, please visit https://www.plcdetroit.com/degree-programs/