Textile Science: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Textile Science is an interdisciplinary field dedicated to understanding the composition, behavior, and application of textile materials across diverse industries. It combines scientific principles with practical innovation to explore how fibers, yarns, fabrics, dyes, and finishes are developed, tested, and utilized in both everyday and specialized contexts.
- Chemical and physical properties of textile materials: Examines the molecular structure and performance characteristics of fibers and fabrics, including durability, elasticity, thermal resistance, and moisture management.
- Fiber and yarn processing: Investigates methods for transforming raw materials into usable yarns, including spinning, blending, and texturing techniques for natural and synthetic sources.
- Fabric construction and evaluation: Focuses on weaving, knitting, and nonwoven technologies, along with quality assessment and performance testing of finished textiles.
- Dyeing and finishing technologies: Explores chemical and mechanical processes used to enhance colorfastness, texture, and functional properties such as water resistance or flame retardancy.
- End-use analysis and application: Assesses how textile materials meet specific functional, aesthetic, and safety requirements in consumer, industrial, and technical environments.
- Interior furnishing applications: Studies the design and performance of textiles used in home and commercial interiors, including upholstery, drapery, and flooring materials.
- Industrial and technical textile uses: Addresses advanced applications in automotive, aerospace, medical, and protective apparel sectors where high-performance materials are essential.
Textile Science Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Textile Science Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Textile Science degrees, including Materials Scientists, Fashion Designers and Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 101,450 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials Scientists 19-2032 | $104,160 | $61,460 - $168,500 | 8,330 | $50.08 |
| Fashion Designers 27-1022 | $80,690 | $35,970 - $169,620 | 20,910 | $38.79 |
| Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1192 | $77,280 | $47,580 - $133,180 | 2,630 | N/A |
| Interior Designers 27-1025 | $63,490 | $38,480 - $106,090 | 69,580 | $30.52 |
Textile Science Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $45,090 in West Virginia to $114,317 in California—a 154% difference. The highest-paying states include California, Tennessee, and New York. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 101,450 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Textile Science by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Textile Science programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Textile Science is found at Cornell University (5 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 5 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cornell University |
Bachelor's
|
5 | Ithaca, New York | Private | cornell.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Textile Science programs
How much can I earn with a Textile Science degree?
Salaries for Textile Science graduates vary by role and location. Materials Scientists earn a median of $104,160 annually, while Fashion Designers earn around $80,690. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $114,317 compared to $45,090 in West Virginia. Approximately 101,450 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Textile Science programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Textile Science degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Cornell University (5 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Textile Science degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Materials Scientists, Fashion Designers, and Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary. Related occupations employ approximately 101,450 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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