The Department of Applied Business Studies, established in Fall 2020, is dedicated to preparing students for dynamic careers in Fashion Industry Studies, Hospitality Innovation and Leadership, and Property Management. Our student-focused programs provide hands-on, immersive experiences that build the skills necessary for success in today’s industries. Through direct engagement with professionals and strong community involvement, our students gain real-world insights that set them apart.
Make an Impact on One Ball State Day 2025
This year, we’re highlighting a few of our outstanding students who embody what makes our programs unique, impactful, and essential for future industry leaders. Your generosity helps bring their education to life!
Support Fashion Industry Studies
Your gift to the Fashion Industry Studies Program will help support the program’s general operations, including but not limited to activities, advancement, and operational needs. Additionally, your support may help fund opportunities such as student travel for industry field trips, providing real-world exposure that can be financially challenging. With your generosity, we can help remove financial barriers and create opportunities for every student to succeed.
"I love this major because it's a close-knit community of creative and business-savvy students working towards a place in the fashion industry. I chose Ball State because I loved the beautiful campus and small class sizes. In the future, I plan to work in visual merchandising or trend forecasting."
– Clare Sexton, Fashion Merchandising Major
Empower Hospitality Innovation and Leadership
Your donation to the Hospitality Innovation and Leadership Program will help support the program’s general operations, including but not limited to activities, advancement, and operational needs. This support may also help fund opportunities such as study abroad experiences, field trips, industry conferences, and job shadowing, expanding learning beyond the classroom and equipping students with the skills and insights to excel in the hospitality industry.
"I am happy I chose the hospitality program and look forward to graduating in the next two years! I want to work at a resort because I enjoy doing a little bit of everything. At Ball State, I've had the opportunity to learn about all the different aspects of the hospitality industry hands-on."
– Mary Mantle, Hospitality Innovation and Leadership Major
Invest in Property Management Success
Your contribution to the Property Management Program helps support the needs of the Residential Property Management (RPM) program, such as assisting students in obtaining professional credentials, materials, and exams. This support allows them to graduate not only with a bachelor’s degree but also with key industry certifications that give them a competitive edge.
"This program fully prepares you to become a successful professional. The opportunities Ball State provides to network with experts in the industry are endless. This program has allowed me to challenge myself to achieve greatness."
– Lauren Reed, Property Management Major
Your Gift Transforms Student Experiences
If you're passionate about supporting student success and shaping future industry leaders, consider making a gift to the Applied Business Studies Fund. Your donation will provide vital resources across all three programs, helping students access meaningful learning experiences and professional opportunities.
Make your impact today and help our students thrive!