Costume Design

Costume Design at Boston University offers students an immersive and comprehensive program dedicated to the art and craft of creating costumes for theater, film, television, and other performance media. This program combines rigorous technical training with creative development, providing students with the skills necessary to excel in the dynamic world of costume production. Students engage in coursework that covers costume history, sketching, fabric selection, pattern making, sewing techniques, and costume construction, ensuring a solid foundation in both traditional and contemporary practices. The curriculum emphasizes collaboration with directors, scenic designers, and other theater professionals, fostering a professional environment where students learn to translate a director’s vision into tangible costume pieces. In addition to technical skills, students develop a keen understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of costume design, facilitating authentic and meaningful character development. The program features hands-on projects, workshops, and internships that enable students to gain real-world experience and build industry connections. Faculty members are experienced costume designers and industry professionals who mentor students and provide guidance on portfolio development, professional etiquette, and the business side of costume design. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to pursue careers as costume designers, wardrobe supervisors, costume assistants, or related roles in theater, film, and television industries. The program is committed to fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, preparing graduates to contribute innovative and authentic costume designs that enhance storytelling and character portrayal. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant arts community, students are encouraged to push boundaries and explore new ideas within the rich tradition of costume design.

• Matinee
• Colloquium
• Production
• Costume Design 1 & 2
• Costume Production 1 & 2
• Figure Drawing 1 & 2
• History of Costume 1 & 2
• Scene Design 1 & 2
• Costume Rendering Lab
• Theatre Literature elective
• Costume Design 3 & 4
• Millinery 1 & 2
• Figure Drawing
• History of Tailoring
• Lighting Design 1
• Art History 1
• Social Science
• Fabric Dyeing
• Intro to Textiles
• Intro to Stage Direction
• Shakespeare
• Art History 2

Requirements

• You are eligible to apply for admission to Boston University as an international undergraduate student if you’ve completed the equivalent of a United States secondary school education (approximately 12 years of formal education starting at age six) or are a GED recipient or completed a secondary school equivalency exam. You must have either an appropriate diploma or leaving certificates.
• Secondary School Records
• Final Year Grades
• Internet-based TOEFL exam (iBT):Students who are most competitive for admission will have a composite score of at least 90-100 and minimum scores of 20 in each section. 
• In lieu of the TOEFL exam, you may submit the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). A score of 7 or higher will also satisfy BU’s English Language proficiency requirement for all programs.
• The completed Confidential Statement for Financing Studies & Sponsorship Support form
• Passport Photocopy

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Trustee Scholarship
• Presidential Scholarship
• Need-Based Financial Aid Policy for International Students

The Costume Design program at Boston University offers students a comprehensive education in the art and craft of costume creation for theater, film, television, and other performance arts. The curriculum emphasizes both conceptual development and technical skills, preparing students to excel in a competitive industry. Students engage in courses that cover various aspects such as costume history, fabric selection, pattern making, sewing techniques, dyeing, and costume construction. The program also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with directors, set designers, and performers to bring creative visions to life.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including costume shops equipped with sewing machines, pressing stations, and design studios. Throughout their studies, students participate in costume internships and production projects, gaining hands-on experience in professional settings. The program encourages exploration of different styles and periods, enabling students to develop versatile portfolios. Additionally, students learn about the cultural and historical significance of costume design, fostering an understanding of how costumes support storytelling and character development.

Faculty members are experienced professionals from the costume and fashion industries, providing mentorship and industry insights. The program also offers workshops and seminars with guest artists and costume designers, expanding students' professional networks. Upon graduation, students are prepared for careers as costume designers, assistants, wardrobe supervisors, costume technicians, and other related roles in various entertainment fields.

Overall, the Boston University Costume Design program aims to develop creative, skilled, and industry-ready designers who can contribute innovatively to the world of performance arts. The program is designed to be flexible enough to accommodate students with varying interests within costume design, promoting both artistic expression and technical proficiency. Students graduate with a strong portfolio and professional readiness, equipped to pursue careers in theater companies, film production houses, television studios, or open their own design studios. The program's rigorous curriculum, combined with experiential learning opportunities, ensures graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a dynamic and evolving industry.