Visual Merchandising Certification

Visual Merchandising Certification

Visual merchandising is one of a retailer's most valuable assets. When done well, it can drive sales, inspire loyalty in customers, improve the buying experience and communicate a brand's core values and ideals.

This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of visual merchandising. Although the content focuses primarily on visual merchandising within a traditional retail environment, much of the material is also relevant in other art and design-based contexts, such as exhibition design, interior design, ecommerce-related web design, and event planning.

This course addresses numerous practical aspects of visual merchandising, including the proper use of planograms, brand communication, the launching of sales campaigns, and arranging seasonal displays.

You will learn exactly what drives a customer to make a purchase, and how to harness the shopper's senses in such a way that they feel inclined to buy a product.

Whether you are a small business owner wanting to learn how to show your products to their best advantage, an individual looking to break into the retail industry, or simply someone with a passion for the visual arts, you will soon develop a working knowledge of all key areas of visual merchandising.

The knowledge you gain during this course will prepare you to enter this challenging yet rewarding and highly creative profession.

What You Will Learn

  • What visual merchandising is, why visual merchandising plays a vital role in the retail industry, and the ways in which visual merchandising practices have changed over time.
  • The various kinds of internal and external displays a visual merchandiser will create, the principles underlying good display design, and how planograms are used to guide visual merchandisers in their day-to-day work.
  • How visual merchandisers choose, dress and style mannequins when designing displays.
  • The most common types of fixtures and fittings used by visual merchandisers and how they are used to construct eye-catching displays.
  • Why a visual merchandiser needs to understand the principles behind an effective store layout and how these layouts are put together.
  • How visual merchandisers display home furnishings and related products in a way that promotes sales and improves customer engagement.
  • The challenges that come with displaying shoes and accessories, together with an overview of the most common techniques used to present items in these categories.
  • How visual merchandisers can play a key role in ensuring the success of sales and promotions.
  • The most pressing issues confronting retailers today and how they are shaping visual merchandising roles.
  • How to begin and develop a career in visual merchandising, together with an overview of alternative career paths for those with previous experience in retail merchandising.

Benefits of taking this course

  • You will gain an insight into the necessary qualities and qualifications needed for a career in visual merchandising, which will help you make informed choices when seeking training and employment in this sector.
  • You will be in a position to put together effective, attractive displays that incorporate both merchandise and props.
  • You will be able to apply for entry-level assistant merchandising roles, confident that you have knowledge of the underlying principles of contemporary retail displays.
  • You will be able to begin a career that could give you the opportunity to manage a visual merchandising team, and to assume considerable creative responsibility within a retail environment.
  • You can learn the material in any place, at any time, and at your own speed.
  • All you need is an internet-enabled device.
  • Content is presented as brief modules, making learning easy.
  • Affordable cost.

This course includes

24/7 Student Support

End of course certification

Lifetime access to your course

Compatible with modern devices

PLUS - Access to the exclusive New Skills Academy Study Group!
  • What is meant by the term ‘visual merchandising’
  • The key aims of visual merchandising as a retail practice
  • The history of visual merchandising
  • Why visual merchandising is important and effective in selling products
  • Why key design principles are the foundation of every successful display
  • The most common types of display used in retail environments
  • How to use lighting, to make merchandise more appealing to the customer
  • How color can be employed, to display products to good effect
  • The advantages of using mannequins, to display clothing and accessories
  • How to care for and store mannequins
  • How to dress a mannequin
  • The various forms available that can replace or supplement mannequins
  • What is meant by the term ‘fixture’, in the context of the retail industry;
  • The relationship between the fixtures used in visual merchandising and the way in which a product or line of products is displayed;
  • The relationship between the fixtures used in visual merchandising and the way in which a product or line of products is displayed;
  • How to use platforms and elevations, to show off store merchandise;
  • What is meant by the term ‘store planning
  • How the role of a store planner differs from that of a visual merchandiser
  • Why visual merchandisers should take the time to become familiar with the purposes of store planning, and how it is carried out in practice
  • The key purposes and aims of store design
  • The types of merchandise that fall under the category of home accessories (also known as ‘home fashions’;
  • The importance of setting the scene and using lifestyle themes, when displaying homeware and home accessories;
  • How to display small and fragile goos in a safe, aesthetically pleasing manner;
  • How to use mannequins in the promotion of homeware;
  • Why the presentation of shoes, jewelry and fashion accessories is just as important as that of clothes;
  • The most common props used by visual merchandisers, in order to display items in these categories;
  • How to present shoes, in order to frm an attractive display;
  • How to display jewelry in a way that catches the eye of the customer;
  • How visual merchandising plays an essential role in the performance of a sales campaign;
  • How to use signs, to promote a sale, and the most effective words and phrases to use, in encouraging sales;
  • How to use symbolism, to communicate price reductions;
  • How to use mannequins and other props, to raw attention to a sale;
  • Why retail does not stand still, and how retailers can stay abreast of the latest trends;
  • The rise of online shopping and its implications for visual merchandising;
  • Why omnichannel retailing is growing in popularity and the implications of this trend, for those working in visual merchandising;
  • The role of pop-up shops in contemporary retail and how a visual merchandiser can put together effective displays, in these environments;
  • Why you need to take a proactive approach, in order to advance within the retail industry;
  • What you need to consider, before studyig a formal qualification, and how to choose the right course for you;
  • The options available to you with regards to working hours and environments;
  • How to keep up with changing trends in the retail industry;
ID: YDFT67YHJ
certificate

of achievement

This certificate is presented to

Your Name

NSA

For completing the

Visual Merchandising Certification

on 21st November 2026

Selena Hurford

Selena Hurford

Course Tutor

cpd

Daniel Morgan

Daniel Morgan

Head of Academy

Certificate Example

Anyone who has an interest in learning more about this subject matter is encouraged to take the course. There are no entry requirements to take the course.

The course is broken down into 10 individual modules. Each module takes between 20 and 90 minutes on average to study. Although you are free to spend as much or as little time as you feel necessary on each module, simply log in and out of the course at your convenience.

You can study the course any time you like. Simply log in and out of the web based course as often as you require. The course is compatible with all computers, tablet devices and smart phones so you can even study while on the move!

Once you have completed all 10 modules there is a multiple choice test. The questions will be on a range of topics found within the 10 modules. The test, like the course, is online and can be taken a time and location of your choosing.

The pass mark for the test is 70%.

If you don’t pass the test first time you will get further opportunities to take the test again after extra study. There are no limits to the number of times you can take the test. All test retakes are included within the price of the course.

You can either use your Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Solo cards or PayPal account to pay for the online course. Our site uses the latest SSL encryption to ensure your safety. All payments are handled securely by PayPal.

You can begin the course immediately after your payment has been received. You will create your login details during the checkout process. We will also send you an email confirming your login details.

We estimate that the course will take about 12 hours to complete in total, plus an additional 30 minutes for the end of course test.

Once you have been awarded your certificate it is valid for life. The certificate does not expire or need renewing.

I am so happy I decided to take this course I would not be where I am now without it.
Nail diploma school has taught me so much I have a much better understanding of how to start my business and run is successfully.
Even employers are begging to have me and my clients are swarming after I learnt how to advertise better. A big thanks.

Gina Amron

My son has Aspergers Syndrome, so when this course Autism Awareness Diploma came up with 90% off just after Christmas, I thought I would like to do it. There was no pressure on myself and progressed at my own pace, the course is very informative with lots of hints and tips. The process of going through the Modules and assignments was also very easy to do. The cost of the course was expensive if I hadn't had 90% off. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending New Skills Academy courses to other people for their informative and ease of usage. I really enjoyed it.

Dawn Hughes

I have a BA in Creative Writing, and I learned a lot from this course on the specifics of writing fantasy. With interesting subject matter and a worksheets that you can adapt for future writing, this course was absolutely worth the investment. It also allowed me to develop my teaching CV through its accredited certificate. I am looking forwards to incorporating some of the things I learned through the Fantasy Writing course in to my curriculum and classroom activities. If you have an interest in writing, or if you are an English teacher too, this series of courses are absolutely worth investing in.

Stephanie Gallon

I cannot recommend this course enough, and after seeing the standard of my current course, I can only assume others are to the same high standard.

One of the first things you will notice about the course is just how informative it is. The information given is in depth and intelligently written. I felt within the first 15 minutes of starting, I had a genuine understanding of the requirements of my course and the ways in which it would benefit me.

I have been working in hotels now for a few years and have made the step forward into a management role. This course has given me great confidence in my own abilities and is helping me understand just how much work goes into managing a hotel.

I cannot recommend this course enough! If you’re thinking of taking the plunge, perhaps making a career change or just starting out like me, then this course is the platform you need to boost your success.

Liam Hubbard

Course was incredible! Excellent development difficult matter, but with details are trained for this
Responsible manager job. Also with the knowledge that you gain, you feel prepared for a big challenge for new career. The importance in hospitality business shown in detail and is easily digested in training for working. Everything is designed with new technology and easily memories, amazingly beautiful methods of training
I feel very satisfied with the course. Magnificent time during the course. I recommend everyone to try. I want to thank the team of New Skills Academy for everything they have created for the education of this kind of business. Thanks again so much!

Vladimir Todorov

I have just completed the ADHD Diploma.

I found the course extremely interesting and informative, especially for parents with children who have ADHD or people who work with children with the condition. It has changed my perspective on the condition a lot. I have therefore recommended this course to others.

The course was very well structured and easy to navigate. The wording used was simple to understand yet effective. The test was multiple choice which I liked and you are able to access your certificate straight after successful completion of the test which I thought was great.

I will definitely be purchasing another course from New Skills Academy.

Melissa Birch

Duration:
12 hours

Access:
Lifetime Access

Approved by:
CPD

Learning Type:


Text based modules  Images 

Cost:
$120.00

Visual Merchandising Certification

Visual merchandising is one of a retailer's most valuable assets. When done well, it can drive sales, inspire loyalty in customers, improve the buying experience and communicate a brand's core values and ideals.

This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of visual merchandising. Although the content focuses primarily on visual merchandising within a traditional retail environment, much of the material is also relevant in other art and design-based contexts, such as exhibition design, interior design, ecommerce-related web design, and event planning.

This course addresses numerous practical aspects of visual merchandising, including the proper use of planograms, brand communication, the launching of sales campaigns, and arranging seasonal displays.

You will learn exactly what drives a customer to make a purchase, and how to harness the shopper's senses in such a way that they feel inclined to buy a product.

Whether you are a small business owner wanting to learn how to show your products to their best advantage, an individual looking to break into the retail industry, or simply someone with a passion for the visual arts, you will soon develop a working knowledge of all key areas of visual merchandising.

The knowledge you gain during this course will prepare you to enter this challenging yet rewarding and highly creative profession.

What You Will Learn

  • What visual merchandising is, why visual merchandising plays a vital role in the retail industry, and the ways in which visual merchandising practices have changed over time.
  • The various kinds of internal and external displays a visual merchandiser will create, the principles underlying good display design, and how planograms are used to guide visual merchandisers in their day-to-day work.
  • How visual merchandisers choose, dress and style mannequins when designing displays.
  • The most common types of fixtures and fittings used by visual merchandisers and how they are used to construct eye-catching displays.
  • Why a visual merchandiser needs to understand the principles behind an effective store layout and how these layouts are put together.
  • How visual merchandisers display home furnishings and related products in a way that promotes sales and improves customer engagement.
  • The challenges that come with displaying shoes and accessories, together with an overview of the most common techniques used to present items in these categories.
  • How visual merchandisers can play a key role in ensuring the success of sales and promotions.
  • The most pressing issues confronting retailers today and how they are shaping visual merchandising roles.
  • How to begin and develop a career in visual merchandising, together with an overview of alternative career paths for those with previous experience in retail merchandising.

Benefits of taking this course

  • You will gain an insight into the necessary qualities and qualifications needed for a career in visual merchandising, which will help you make informed choices when seeking training and employment in this sector.
  • You will be in a position to put together effective, attractive displays that incorporate both merchandise and props.
  • You will be able to apply for entry-level assistant merchandising roles, confident that you have knowledge of the underlying principles of contemporary retail displays.
  • You will be able to begin a career that could give you the opportunity to manage a visual merchandising team, and to assume considerable creative responsibility within a retail environment.
  • You can learn the material in any place, at any time, and at your own speed.
  • All you need is an internet-enabled device.
  • Content is presented as brief modules, making learning easy.
  • Affordable cost.

This course includes

24/7 Student Support

End of course certification

Lifetime access to your course

Compatible with modern devices

PLUS - Access to the exclusive New Skills Academy Study Group!
  • What is meant by the term ‘visual merchandising’
  • The key aims of visual merchandising as a retail practice
  • The history of visual merchandising
  • Why visual merchandising is important and effective in selling products
  • Why key design principles are the foundation of every successful display
  • The most common types of display used in retail environments
  • How to use lighting, to make merchandise more appealing to the customer
  • How color can be employed, to display products to good effect
  • The advantages of using mannequins, to display clothing and accessories
  • How to care for and store mannequins
  • How to dress a mannequin
  • The various forms available that can replace or supplement mannequins
  • What is meant by the term ‘fixture’, in the context of the retail industry;
  • The relationship between the fixtures used in visual merchandising and the way in which a product or line of products is displayed;
  • The relationship between the fixtures used in visual merchandising and the way in which a product or line of products is displayed;
  • How to use platforms and elevations, to show off store merchandise;
  • What is meant by the term ‘store planning
  • How the role of a store planner differs from that of a visual merchandiser
  • Why visual merchandisers should take the time to become familiar with the purposes of store planning, and how it is carried out in practice
  • The key purposes and aims of store design
  • The types of merchandise that fall under the category of home accessories (also known as ‘home fashions’;
  • The importance of setting the scene and using lifestyle themes, when displaying homeware and home accessories;
  • How to display small and fragile goos in a safe, aesthetically pleasing manner;
  • How to use mannequins in the promotion of homeware;
  • Why the presentation of shoes, jewelry and fashion accessories is just as important as that of clothes;
  • The most common props used by visual merchandisers, in order to display items in these categories;
  • How to present shoes, in order to frm an attractive display;
  • How to display jewelry in a way that catches the eye of the customer;
  • How visual merchandising plays an essential role in the performance of a sales campaign;
  • How to use signs, to promote a sale, and the most effective words and phrases to use, in encouraging sales;
  • How to use symbolism, to communicate price reductions;
  • How to use mannequins and other props, to raw attention to a sale;
  • Why retail does not stand still, and how retailers can stay abreast of the latest trends;
  • The rise of online shopping and its implications for visual merchandising;
  • Why omnichannel retailing is growing in popularity and the implications of this trend, for those working in visual merchandising;
  • The role of pop-up shops in contemporary retail and how a visual merchandiser can put together effective displays, in these environments;
  • Why you need to take a proactive approach, in order to advance within the retail industry;
  • What you need to consider, before studyig a formal qualification, and how to choose the right course for you;
  • The options available to you with regards to working hours and environments;
  • How to keep up with changing trends in the retail industry;
ID: YDFT67YHJ
certificate

of achievement

This certificate is presented to

Your Name

NSA

For completing the

Visual Merchandising Certification

on 21st November 2026

Selena Hurford

Selena Hurford

Course Tutor

cpd

Daniel Morgan

Daniel Morgan

Head of Academy

Certificate Example

Anyone who has an interest in learning more about this subject matter is encouraged to take the course. There are no entry requirements to take the course.

The course is broken down into 10 individual modules. Each module takes between 20 and 90 minutes on average to study. Although you are free to spend as much or as little time as you feel necessary on each module, simply log in and out of the course at your convenience.

You can study the course any time you like. Simply log in and out of the web based course as often as you require. The course is compatible with all computers, tablet devices and smart phones so you can even study while on the move!

Once you have completed all 10 modules there is a multiple choice test. The questions will be on a range of topics found within the 10 modules. The test, like the course, is online and can be taken a time and location of your choosing.

The pass mark for the test is 70%.

If you don’t pass the test first time you will get further opportunities to take the test again after extra study. There are no limits to the number of times you can take the test. All test retakes are included within the price of the course.

You can either use your Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Solo cards or PayPal account to pay for the online course. Our site uses the latest SSL encryption to ensure your safety. All payments are handled securely by PayPal.

You can begin the course immediately after your payment has been received. You will create your login details during the checkout process. We will also send you an email confirming your login details.

We estimate that the course will take about 12 hours to complete in total, plus an additional 30 minutes for the end of course test.

Once you have been awarded your certificate it is valid for life. The certificate does not expire or need renewing.

I am so happy I decided to take this course I would not be where I am now without it.
Nail diploma school has taught me so much I have a much better understanding of how to start my business and run is successfully.
Even employers are begging to have me and my clients are swarming after I learnt how to advertise better. A big thanks.

Gina Amron

My son has Aspergers Syndrome, so when this course Autism Awareness Diploma came up with 90% off just after Christmas, I thought I would like to do it. There was no pressure on myself and progressed at my own pace, the course is very informative with lots of hints and tips. The process of going through the Modules and assignments was also very easy to do. The cost of the course was expensive if I hadn't had 90% off. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending New Skills Academy courses to other people for their informative and ease of usage. I really enjoyed it.

Dawn Hughes

I have a BA in Creative Writing, and I learned a lot from this course on the specifics of writing fantasy. With interesting subject matter and a worksheets that you can adapt for future writing, this course was absolutely worth the investment. It also allowed me to develop my teaching CV through its accredited certificate. I am looking forwards to incorporating some of the things I learned through the Fantasy Writing course in to my curriculum and classroom activities. If you have an interest in writing, or if you are an English teacher too, this series of courses are absolutely worth investing in.

Stephanie Gallon

I cannot recommend this course enough, and after seeing the standard of my current course, I can only assume others are to the same high standard.

One of the first things you will notice about the course is just how informative it is. The information given is in depth and intelligently written. I felt within the first 15 minutes of starting, I had a genuine understanding of the requirements of my course and the ways in which it would benefit me.

I have been working in hotels now for a few years and have made the step forward into a management role. This course has given me great confidence in my own abilities and is helping me understand just how much work goes into managing a hotel.

I cannot recommend this course enough! If you’re thinking of taking the plunge, perhaps making a career change or just starting out like me, then this course is the platform you need to boost your success.

Liam Hubbard

Course was incredible! Excellent development difficult matter, but with details are trained for this
Responsible manager job. Also with the knowledge that you gain, you feel prepared for a big challenge for new career. The importance in hospitality business shown in detail and is easily digested in training for working. Everything is designed with new technology and easily memories, amazingly beautiful methods of training
I feel very satisfied with the course. Magnificent time during the course. I recommend everyone to try. I want to thank the team of New Skills Academy for everything they have created for the education of this kind of business. Thanks again so much!

Vladimir Todorov

I have just completed the ADHD Diploma.

I found the course extremely interesting and informative, especially for parents with children who have ADHD or people who work with children with the condition. It has changed my perspective on the condition a lot. I have therefore recommended this course to others.

The course was very well structured and easy to navigate. The wording used was simple to understand yet effective. The test was multiple choice which I liked and you are able to access your certificate straight after successful completion of the test which I thought was great.

I will definitely be purchasing another course from New Skills Academy.

Melissa Birch

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