Online Certificate in Display & Visual Merchandising

The Certificate in Display & Visual Merchandising is designed for professionals seeking to master the art and science of creating engaging retail and exhibition environments. This program provides a deep dive into visual merchandising principles, combining creativity with strategy to enhance customer engagement and brand presence.

With over 450 hours of flexible online training, participants will explore the fundamentals of store layout, window display, lighting, and seasonal campaigns. The program blends theory with practical assignments and projects that mirror real-world retail challenges, preparing learners to take on roles in retail, fashion, and brand marketing.

Meet Your Instructors

• Prof. Laura Bennett, MA in Retail Design – Specialist in store environments and experiential retail.

• Mr. David Collins, MSc in Visual Communication – Expert in lighting, signage, and color application for brand impact.

• Dr. Emily Rhodes, PhD in Design Management – Consultant in strategic merchandising and consumer behavior.

Program Structure – Modules

• Module 1: Foundations of Visual Merchandising and Retail Psychology

• Module 2: Store Layout and Spatial Planning

• Module 3: Window Display Design and Seasonal Campaigns

• Module 4: Color Theory, Lighting Techniques, and Signage Principles

• Module 5: Translating Brand Guidelines into Retail Experiences

• Module 6: Capstone Project – End-to-End Visual Merchandising Strategy

What you will learn

• Design store layouts and apply professional display principles

• Use color, lighting, and signage to maximize customer engagement

• Plan and execute seasonal campaigns, including window and in-store displays

• Translate brand guidelines into physical retail experiences that drive sales

How you will benefit

• Develop specialized skills for retail, fashion, and visual design industries

• Build a professional portfolio with practical merchandising projects

• Enhance career opportunities in retail management, visual merchandising, and brand strategy

• Gain expertise in balancing aesthetics with commercial outcomes

How the course is taught

• 100% online, self-paced with instructor-led workshops

• 450+ hours of structured coursework, exercises, and case studies

• Includes applied assignments and a final capstone project

• Flexible enrollment with lifetime access to materials