College for Creative Studies to collaborate with Shinola for a new fashion accessories design program

The College for Creative Studies (CCS) is teaming up with Shinola for a brand new Bachelors of Fine Arts program. When the Fashion Accessories Design program launches in the fall of 2015, it will be of the only programs of its kind in the country. It's also the first and only one of its kind in the Midwest. 

The four-year course of study will teach students about designing, creating and manufacturing handbags, hardware, shoes, and leather goods. Leather goods is where Shinola comes in.

The watch-makers will give scholarships to the "most talented students" and will provide first-hand experience and guidance to students in the program.

The program will also teach students about trend forecasting, market research, merchandising, marketing, branding, large-scale manufacturing, and more.  

Graduating from the program will help students pursue careers in  handbag design, footwear design, leather goods design, soft goods design, pattern making, trend forecasting, trend analytics, product research, and product merchandising.