My best mate is in fashion (design) and she had to do a a 3 year degree course, she also worked for a year on placement She got a first job recently (approx on 18K) this is in London for a top fashion house.
I'm oretty certain all her workmates, either buyers, designers or production all have degress in fashion.
The London School of Fashion or your local Uni will be able to furnish you with more info on fashion as a career
Good luck! A great industry to work by all accounts!