The Theatre School's Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Costume Technology is designed to prepare students for success in a variety of roles in traditional fields as well as emerging areas of the costume industry.
In addition to the comprehensive four-year course sequence, students gain practical production experience as stitchers, first hands, drapers, craftspeople, wardrobe, and shop assistants during our production season. Costume Technology students learn to collaborate, interpret, pattern, and craft costume designs into garments and accessories that support both the actor and the creative needs of the production. Our curriculum and training is collaborative, human-focused, equity-minded, and sustainably driven. Students are also encouraged to complete at least one internship during their time in the program and participate in the Michael Merritt Award Portfolio Showcase during their final year.
Our recent alumni have earned positions with esteemed organizations such as Chicago Shakespeare Theater (staff first hand), Houston Ballet (staff stitcher), Steppenwolf Theatre (staff craftsperson), and London's Savile Row (tailoring apprenticeship) and more. See below for more examples of where our graduates are employed.
BFA Costume Technology Curriculum
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
Liberal Studies
In addition to the major's requirements, students complete 52 quarterly credit hours (13 courses) in the university's Liberal Studies Program. Courses are taken in theatre history, writing, quantitative reasoning and technological literacy, philosophical inquiry, religious dimensions, scientific inquiry, understanding the past, multiculturalism in the United States, and electives. These liberal studies courses are scheduled during the first three years of the program.
Featured Faculty and Staff
Students learn from a community of distinguished award-winning faculty and staff of professional designers and artists both in the classroom and through individual guidance and advising during production work. Students receive formal and informal feedback from faculty, staff, and guests through portfolio presentations and exhibitions of their work at various points.
Learn more about...
- Costume Technology Major Requirements
- Liberal Studies Requirements
- BFA in Costume Design or BFA in Wig and Makeup Technology & Design
- Continuing education programs and our historical database!
- How to Apply
Our bright, spacious and airy costume shop features professional tools and equipment such as industrial sewing machines, sergers, and irons as well as a well-equipped craft and dye shop.