BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction program at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, construct, and manage costumes for various theatrical and film productions. Through hands-on experience, collaborations with industry partners, and a focus on creativity and innovation, graduates are prepared for careers in film, television, opera, theatre, and ballet. The program emphasizes practical experience, professional networking, and a global perspective, ensuring students are highly sought after in the competitive costume design and construction industry.
Program Outline
BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Degree Overview
This four-year program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, construct, and manage costumes for various theatrical and film productions. It emphasizes practical experience through collaborations with industry partners and real-world projects. Graduates are prepared for careers in various sectors, including film, television, opera, theatre, and ballet.
Objectives:
- Equip students with the practical and theoretical expertise to excel in the costume design and construction field.
- Provide opportunities for students to work on live projects, gaining valuable real-world experience.
- Foster creativity and innovation in costume design and construction.
- Develop students' professional skills, including communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
- Prepare students for successful careers in the costume design and construction industry.
Program Description:
The BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction program combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience. Students participate in professional practice modules, working as a team to create and deliver costumes for live productions in collaboration with partner organizations. They also develop individual design projects and research areas of interest.
Key Features:
- Emphasis on hands-on learning through professional practice modules.
- Close industry links, providing students with valuable networking opportunities.
- Access to well-equipped costume studios and facilities.
- Opportunities for work experience and internships.
- Experienced and dedicated teaching staff.
Benefits:
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various costume design and construction sectors.
- The program provides a strong foundation for further study or postgraduate research.
- Students gain valuable experience working on live projects and collaborating with industry professionals.
- The course is designed to develop students' creative and technical skills, making them highly employable.
Outline
Year 1:
- Introduction to theatre production
- The origins of theatre
- Introduction to wardrobe practice (including professional practice)
- Introduction to costume design
Year 2:
- Advanced costume design
- Advanced costume techniques
- Professional practice as a wardrobe assistant
Year 3:
- Professional practice in a lead role - designer, supervisor, or cutter
- Practice-informed research project - personal choice of research topic
- Creating in context: design project for an individual theoretical production
- Theatre of ideas - introduction to European theatre with a costumed live presentation
- One elective option
Year 4:
- Honours study
- Creative enterprise in the performing arts
- Creating your career (work-based learning)
- One elective option
Elective Modules:
- Experiential learning student-initiated module
- Directing, designing, and performance
- Advanced theatre production
- The only way is ethics
- Photography
- Site-specific performance
- Cultural and arts funding
- Theatre archiving
- Staging the 20th century
Assessment
Assessment methods vary depending on the individual module but typically include:
- Coursework assignments, including design projects, research papers, and practical exercises.
- Practical assessments, such as costume construction and wardrobe management tasks.
- Presentations and discussions showcasing students' work.
- Portfolios showcasing students' design and construction skills.
- Final examinations in some modules. Assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes of each module and focus on students' ability to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of costume design and construction principles.
- Apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
- Develop creative and technical skills in costume design and construction.
- Collaborate effectively with others in a team environment.
- Manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Teaching
The program utilizes various teaching methods, including:
- Lectures and seminars providing theoretical knowledge and stimulating class discussions.
- Practical workshops offering hands-on experience in costume design and construction techniques.
- Individual tutorials providing personalized feedback and guidance.
- Group projects developing teamwork and collaboration skills.
- Guest lectures from industry professionals sharing their expertise and insights. The program benefits from a dedicated and experienced teaching staff who are passionate about costume design and construction. They bring a wealth of academic and industry experience to the classroom, ensuring students receive high-quality teaching and support.
Careers
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction program pursue careers in various sectors, including:
- Film
- Television
- Opera
- Theatre
- Ballet
- Museums
- Heritage organizations
- Re-enactment groups
- Costume design and construction companies The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in these competitive industries. Graduates are highly sought after for their creativity, technical expertise, and ability to work collaboratively.
Other
The program emphasizes the importance of personal development and professional networking. Students are encouraged to participate in industry events, conferences, and workshops to gain valuable experience and build connections. The program also offers a strong international focus, with opportunities for study abroad and collaborations with international partners. This helps students develop a global perspective and enhances their career prospects.
Additional Information:
- The program is accredited by the Society of British Theatre Designers (SBTD).
- Students have the opportunity to showcase their work at the annual student runway show.
- The program consistently receives high praise from students and external examiners.
