ADMISSIONS
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The program is a soup-to-nuts experience. Students come with some skills but are often missing others.
We fill in the gaps to give designers the best shot at launching or continuing a successful fashion brand and career.
PREREQUISITES
Students must possess basic competency at sewing on a domestic machine as we use industrial sewing machines from day-one. The time and financial commitment needs to be realistic for them so they are not stressed and can enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.
COST OF ATTENDANCE
Students can choose a full-time one year program, a two year 20 hours per week program or a three year 13 hour per week program.
The cost of the one year full time program culminating in a group runway show at NY Fashion Week is approximately $39,000.
The two year program is approx $22,000 per year with the runway show at the end of the second year.
The three year program is approx $15,000 per year with a show at the end of the third year.
APPLICATION CYCLE
Full time and part time students join MDfin whenever it works for them. They commit to 3 months in advance and may leave or continue if the program is working for them.
They have the option to show at NY Fashion Week when the staff considers them ready.
Send a portfolio and letter of introduction to
FACULTY
OUR FOUNDER
Lee Andersen, our founder, created over 6,000 designs and produced over 60,000 garments in her Maryland design studio and production facility. Her eponymous label has appeared in over 1,200 independent boutiques in the US.
She has a B.Ed and MFA and many years of experience working with young and mature students. She is in an ongoing battle with cancer and still brings her huge, positive energy to MDfin and to the popular DoodleHATCH Interactive Art Museum for children which she also founded. In 2024, she was named Artist of the Year by Howard County Arts Council.