Best Schools for Costume Design?

Okay guys, I have this passion for costume design and I'm hoping to turn it into a career. I'm a junior planning for college and I'm eager to hear some recommendations on top costume design schools. What should I be looking for in their programs? And how can I increase my chances of getting accepted? Thanks in advance!

It's wonderful that you've identified costume design as a field you're interested in studying further! When looking at different programs, you'll want to consider the curriculum offered, faculty credentials, as well as internship and networking opportunities. It's also worth noting the portfolio requirements for program admission as these can vary.

The Tisch School of the Arts at NYU and the School of Drama at Carnegie Mellon University are both highly respected. They offer strong BFA programs in Drama/Design with a Costume Design specialty. Other notable programs include the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), and the Rhode Island School of Design. These schools not only provide a comprehensive curriculum but also boast notable faculty, access to professional-grade technology and resources, as well as a high likelihood of exposure to industry contacts through internships and networking opportunities.

Increasing your chances for acceptance into these competitive programs can be achieved by building a strong portfolio highlighting your interest and skill in costume design. Often, your artistic background, quality of work, and depth of experience and exploration in design matter more than traditional metrics like test scores or GPA.

Get involved in community theater, school plays, or other local productions where you can contribute to the costume department. Draw, sketch, and design as often as you can, expanding your creative work beyond just costume design. Try to participate in competitions, attend summer programs related to arts/design, or consider seeking mentorship in design. Each piece in your portfolio should showcase technical skill, creativity, and an understanding of the elements of costume design.

Finally, make use of every opportunity to hone your craft and demonstrate your dedication to it. In many cases, admissions officers value not only raw talent, but also an understanding of the discipline, a sense of creativity, and a commitment to pursuing the field. Remember, your passion for costume design should be evident in every facet of your application. Best of luck with your applications!