Nearly 90 years ago, Maxwell F. Marcuse, an authority and pioneer in the fields of education and retail, was asked by leading retailers to create an educational institution for the business of fashion and merchandising.
In 1939 Marcuse founded what was originally known as the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM) and in 2009 became LIM College.
In December of 2025, LIM College was acquired by Japan Educational Foundation (JEF) becoming part of JEF’s global higher education portfolio of colleges, universities, campuses, and fashion industry relationships around the world—including ESMOD, the prestigious French fashion school founded in 1841.
Our Timeline
Today, LIM College has embraced an era of increased globalization, accelerated technological advancement, and rapidly emerging new industries.
1939
Founded by Maxwell F. Marcuse (as the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising) and was initially located at 45 West 34th St.
1941
Seventy-nine women comprise the first graduating class.
1959
LIM College moves to 677 Fifth Ave. (between 53rd and 54th St.)
1965
LIM College moves to The Townhouse at 12 East 53rd St.
1971
LIM College officially becomes co-ed.
1972
Second generation: Adrian G. Marcuse assumes the presidency.
1977
The LIM Fashion Education Foundation is founded.
1977
LIM College is granted accreditation from Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
1982
Bachelor's degree granting powers are authorized.
2002
Third generation: Elizabeth S. Marcuse assumes the presidency.
2004
Maxwell Hall location opens at 216 East 45th St.
2006
Fifth Avenue location opens at 545 Fifth Avenue at 45th St.
2008
Master's degree granting powers are authorized.
2009
Name of institution officially changes from Laboratory Institute of Merchandising to LIM College.
2012
Business degree programs receive accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
2015
Bachelor of Science Degree is introduced.
2016
Online degree programs are offered.
2022
Master of Science (MS) degree program in Consumer Analytics launches. This is the first MS degree program in LIM College history.
2022
LIM adopts the tagline “The Business of Fashion & Lifestyle,” to better reflect the College’s range of academic offerings.
2023
The Marcuse School of Graduate Studies becomes the new name under which master’s degree programs at LIM College are offered.
2024
As LIM enters its 85th year, Ron Marshall becomes President of the College.
2025
LIM is acquired by Japan Educational Foundation (JEF), enhancing the College's position as the global leader in education for the business of fashion and lifestyle.