COURSE CURRICULUM

This BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction degree is a highly vocational, practice-led programme designed to prepare students for professional work in theatre, film, and television costume production. Across the four years, students progressively develop creative, technical, and managerial skills through a combination of studio-based learning, workshops, and live production experience. In the first year, students are introduced to core principles of theatre production, costume design, wardrobe practice, and costume construction, while also studying theatre history and developing essential sewing, research, and backstage skills through practical training modules. In the second year, students build on this foundation through advanced costume design and construction techniques, alongside professional practice modules focused on backstage management, construction processes, and ethical considerations within the costume industry, including legal responsibilities and industry standards. The programme places strong emphasis on working collaboratively on live projects in partnership with external organisations, allowing students to gain real-world production experience in wardrobe teams. In the third year, students begin to specialise in chosen areas such as costume design, supervisory roles, or specialist making, taking on leadership responsibilities within production teams while also engaging in practice-informed research and independent projects that develop both academic and professional expertise. Optional modules allow further exploration of related fields such as scenography, prop making, or performing arts contexts. In the final year, students focus on refining their professional direction through advanced practice, work-based learning, and creative enterprise modules, including the development of a career or business plan for entering the industry. Throughout the degree, students gain experience in industry-standard workflows, costume management, construction techniques, and creative collaboration, ensuring they graduate with a strong portfolio, professional confidence, and the practical experience required for careers in costume design, wardrobe supervision, and related creative industries.