She has a diverse educational background: (1) B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences (furnishings and interiors major); (2) M.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences (textiles, merchandising and interiors concentration); and (3) Ph.D. in Consumer, Apparel, and Retail Studies. Prior to teaching, Dr. Burnsed gained vast retail knowledge via being a sales associate, assistant store manager, store manager, assistant buyer, buyer, and showroom designer. In addition to her retail and teaching experience, Dr. Burnsed has 13 years of experience as a practicing interior designer.