An Immersive Retail Education Experience

This immersive course engages students in an intensive exploration of the intersection between luxury retail, digital commerce, and innovative business practices that define modern merchandising. New York City serves as the ultimate classroom for those pursuing careers in merchandising and digital retailing, offering unparalleled access to industry leaders, iconic brands, and cutting-edge retail innovation. 

Our study tour goes beyond traditional learning by providing direct access to the executives, strategists, and innovators shaping the future of retail—from family-founded luxury brands like Fendi, David Yurman, and Tiffany & Co. to digital powerhouses like Expedia and technology leaders like IBM.

What Students Experience

Students gain firsthand insights into how luxury retailers maintain their heritage while embracing innovation, how contemporary brands like Uniqlo integrate sustainability with operational efficiency, and how artificial intelligence and data analytics are revolutionizing customer experiences. 

Past tours have included exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Bergdorf Goodman, corporate strategy sessions exploring CRM systems and digital commerce, innovation lab tours showcasing AI applications in retail, and networking opportunities with UNT alumni working at leading companies, including Tapestry and Uniqlo. 

Beyond boardroom meetings, students experience New York's vibrant culture through Broadway shows, culinary tours of historic neighborhoods, and visits to world-class institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art—experiences that enrich their understanding of consumer behavior and the creative inspiration fueling retail innovation.

The Impact and Value

Students consistently demonstrate exceptional professionalism during industry visits, engaging executives through thoughtful questions and building connections. This multi-day intensive program represents an investment in experiential education that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom, providing perspectives that shape students’ career trajectories.

Application Deadline
Application Deadline: February 13, 2026
Class
MDSE 4001/CMHT 5000
Semester
May 10-May 29, 2026
Study Tour Approximate Cost
Course Tuition plus $1,900 fee
Study Tour Application

Study Tour Contact

Kelcie Slaton, Ph.D.
Kelcie Slaton
Assistant Professor

PAST STUDY TOURS