UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · UNITED STATES
Costume Design MFA
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 3 yearsProgram Duration
- 60 credit hoursCoursework
- 2 students admitted per discipline annuallyCohort Size
- Thesis projectCulmination
- Diverse performance genresSpecializations
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre with a specialization in Live Design and Production, focusing on Costume Design, is a three-year, 60-credit hour program. It uses theories of dress and identity to visually drive narratives in performance. This program explores costume design across diverse genres including opera, multimedia performance, interactive dance, immersive installations, and live theatrical narratives. The curriculum balances design studio work, skill-building, practical production experience, and critical thinking, culminating in a student-developed thesis project. The program admits two students per discipline annually, fostering a focused learning environment within a larger department. Graduates are prepared to be the next generation of storytellers and performance makers.
Curriculum
The three-year, 60-hour MFA program includes four core components: design studio, skill-building, realized productions, and critical thinking/writing.
- Year 1
- Design Studio
- Skill-building
- Assisting Graduate Student
- Year 2
- Major Production Design
- Critical Thinking/Writing
- Year 3
- Thesis Project
- Realized Productions
Careers
Graduates are prepared for careers as storytellers and performance makers, equipped with a portfolio of realized work across various genres.
- Costume Designer
- Assistant Costume Designer
- Costume Shop Assistant
- Design Assistant
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the Costume Design MFA program and how many credits does it involve?
- The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre with a specialization in Costume Design is a three-year program that requires 60 credit hours of coursework.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition rates for graduate students are based on the college of enrollment, and specific rates can be found on the university's tuition and fees pages. An application fee of $90 USD also applies to international students.
- What are the application requirements for the Costume Design MFA?
- You need to complete an online application through the Cockrell School of Engineering website, submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, GRE scores, transcripts, and a costume design portfolio. English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS) are also required for international applicants.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Costume Designer, Assistant Costume Designer, Costume Shop Assistant, and Design Assistant, equipped to be storytellers and performance makers.
- Are there scholarships available for international students?
- The program does not specify scholarships for international students, but merit-based Graduate School and College/Department Fellowships are available, often through program nomination. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeRequired for admission to the Graduate School.
TOEFLNot specified
IELTSNot specified
In addition to Graduate School requirements, applicants must submit a portfolio of work online or by mail. Students need a laptop with specified software and a 100GB USB drive.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates for graduate students are charged based on the college of enrollment. Specific rates are available on the university's tuition and fees pages.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates for graduate students are charged based on the college of enrollment. Specific rates are available on the university's tuition and fees pages.
LivingNot specified. Students should consult university resources for estimated living costs.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students should consult the university's One Stop shop or relevant administrative offices for detailed cost information. An application fee of $90 USD for international students applies.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the online application for graduate admission through the Cockrell School of Engineering website.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents including three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose (1-2 pages), GRE general test scores, and a PDF copy of your current transcripts.
3. Submit PortfolioUpload a portfolio of your costume design work online or mail it for review.
4. Pay Application FeePay the non-refundable application fee ($90 for international applicants).
5. Send GRE ScoresHave GRE scores sent directly from ETS to the Office of Graduate Admissions (University Code: 6882). Scores are valid for 5 years.
6. Submit English Proficiency ScoresInternational applicants must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores, unless they meet specific exemption criteria (e.g., bachelor's degree from a US institution or English-speaking country).
7. Ensure Document SubmissionIt is the applicant's responsibility to ensure all required documents are received by the Office of Graduate Admissions by the application deadline. The department will not review applications until all documents are received.
Scholarships
Graduate School FellowshipsVaries
College & Department FellowshipsVaries
Externally Funded FellowshipsVaries
Accreditation
Not specified.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Costume Design MFA program and how many credits does it involve?
+
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre with a specialization in Costume Design is a three-year program that requires 60 credit hours of coursework.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition rates for graduate students are based on the college of enrollment, and specific rates can be found on the university's tuition and fees pages. An application fee of $90 USD also applies to international students.
What are the application requirements for the Costume Design MFA?
+
You need to complete an online application through the Cockrell School of Engineering website, submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, GRE scores, transcripts, and a costume design portfolio. English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS) are also required for international applicants.
What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Costume Designer, Assistant Costume Designer, Costume Shop Assistant, and Design Assistant, equipped to be storytellers and performance makers.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
The program does not specify scholarships for international students, but merit-based Graduate School and College/Department Fellowships are available, often through program nomination. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding.