M.A. in Acting
The M.A. in Acting program at the Academy of Art University is an intensive and highly ...
B.F.A. in Costume Design
San Francisco, California
INTAKE: Feb, Jun & Sep
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Costume Design at the Academy of Art University is a comprehensive program that prepares students for careers in costume design for theater, film, and television. The program emphasizes both the artistic and technical aspects of costume design, combining creativity with practical skills to create costumes that enhance storytelling and character development. Students in this program learn to blend historical knowledge with contemporary trends, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to various production environments.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in Costume Design provides a robust foundation in both design theory and practical application. Students take courses in costume history, fabric technology, pattern making, and garment construction, as well as specialized classes in digital design and fashion illustration. The program includes hands-on projects where students design, create, and fit costumes for live productions, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings. Additionally, students are exposed to courses in stagecraft and production management to understand the broader context of costume design within the production process.
Research Focus: Research in the B.F.A. in Costume Design program often revolves around historical and contemporary costume practices, fabric innovation, and the impact of costume design on character and narrative. Students are encouraged to explore various aspects of costume history, including different cultural and historical periods, to inform their designs. Research projects may involve analyzing period costumes, experimenting with new materials and techniques, or studying the role of costume design in different performance contexts.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the B.F.A. in Costume Design program. Students have opportunities to work on real productions through internships and collaborations with local theaters, film productions, and design studios. The program fosters connections with industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events. These experiences provide students with practical insights into the costume design profession, enhance their portfolios, and build valuable industry contacts.
Global Perspective: The program incorporates a global perspective by exploring costume design practices from various cultures and historical contexts. Students study international costume styles and trends, which helps them understand how costume design practices differ across the world and how they can be applied in a diverse range of production environments. This global approach enriches students' design perspectives and prepares them to work in an increasingly interconnected and multicultural industry.
Location
San Francisco, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30528
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.,0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 85.
The Academy of Art University offers a range of scholarships to international students, helping to make art and design education more accessible. Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and they can significantly ease the financial burden of tuition.
International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international students who are applying for undergraduate programs. The award amount varies, and eligibility criteria may include a strong academic background, portfolio quality, and a passion for art and design.
The Spring Show Scholarship: The Spring Show is an annual event showcasing the best works from the Academy's students. This scholarship recognizes students who have participated in this event and demonstrated exceptional talent. It can be a substantial financial aid package.
Athletic Scholarship: International students with exceptional athletic skills may be eligible for athletic scholarships. The availability and amount of these scholarships depend on the student's performance and contribution to the university's sports teams.
Academic Scholarships: The Academy of Art University offers various academic scholarships based on a student's academic performance. Students who have achieved excellence in their previous studies may qualify for these scholarships.
Portfolio Scholarships: Many scholarships are awarded based on the quality of a student's portfolio. These scholarships often require students to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their artistic skills and creativity.
Alumni Scholarships: The Academy values its alumni and offers scholarships to relatives of alumni. This scholarship may be open to international students who have family members who attended the university.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and criteria may change over time.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Costume Design program from the Academy of Art University are well-prepared to pursue a variety of careers in the dynamic field of costume design. The program’s comprehensive education in design, history, and technical skills equips alumni with the expertise needed to succeed in various roles within the entertainment and fashion industries.
Costume Designer: Costume designers are responsible for creating the visual appearance of characters in theater, film, and television productions. They work closely with directors, producers, and actors to design costumes that enhance character development and contribute to the overall narrative. This role involves researching historical and cultural contexts, sketching designs, selecting fabrics, and overseeing the construction and fitting of costumes.
Wardrobe Supervisor: Wardrobe supervisors manage the wardrobe department on production sets, ensuring that all costumes are prepared, maintained, and organized. They coordinate fittings, manage costume inventory, and handle any repairs or alterations needed during the production. Wardrobe supervisors also work closely with costume designers to ensure that the wardrobe aligns with the design vision.
Costume Shop Manager: Costume shop managers oversee the daily operations of costume shops, including managing staff, budgets, and resources. They ensure that costume construction and alterations are completed on time and to the required standards. This role involves liaising with designers, coordinating with other departments, and maintaining inventory of materials and supplies.
Fashion Designer: With additional training or experience, B.F.A. in Costume Design graduates can transition into fashion design. Fashion designers create clothing and accessories for retail and runway collections. They apply their knowledge of textiles, garment construction, and design principles to create innovative fashion pieces that reflect current trends and personal styles.
Costume Illustrator: Costume illustrators create detailed drawings and renderings of costume designs. These illustrations are used to communicate design ideas to directors, producers, and costume makers. Costume illustrators use various media, including digital tools and traditional techniques, to produce accurate and visually appealing representations of costume concepts.
Theatrical Costume Historian: Theatrical costume historians research and document the history of costume design and fashion. They may work in academic settings, museums, or archives, studying historical garments, conducting research on costume evolution, and contributing to scholarly publications and exhibitions.
Freelance Costume Designer: Many graduates choose to work as freelance costume designers, offering their services to various clients and projects on a contract basis. Freelance costume designers have the flexibility to work on different types of productions, including theater, film, television, and special events, allowing them to build a diverse portfolio.
Costume Consultant: Costume consultants provide expert advice on costume design and production to various clients, including film and theater productions, fashion designers, and costume retailers. They offer insights into design trends, fabric selection, and costume construction, helping clients achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
Costume Historian or Researcher: Costume historians or researchers focus on studying and preserving historical costume and fashion. They work with historical societies, museums, and educational institutions to research, document, and interpret historical garments and fashion trends, contributing to the broader understanding of costume history.
Theatrical Production Assistant: Production assistants in the theatrical field support various departments, including costume design. They assist with costume fittings, manage costume logistics, and help with other production tasks as needed. This role provides valuable experience and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced positions in costume design.
