Bachelor of Fine Arts (Costume)

With extremely high employment outcomes, this course will equip you with all you need to become a professional costume maker and manager in the theatre, film, TV and entertainment industries. Immersed in world-class facilities, you will gain a solid background in traditional and digital skills in costume making.

Working in small, dedicated classes of six students, you’ll practise and develop skills in costume cutting (pattern making), fitting and construction, fabric dyeing, art finishing, corsetry, leatherwork, tailoring and millinery.

From your first semester, you’ll gain confidence by playing a key role in the Seasons of Student Productions, such as costume makers and dressers, collaborating with leading guest artists and students in a professional standard production.

You will learn how to draft and make patterns/costumes for any size/shape and you will learn from tutors and guest practitioners who are specialists in opera, theatre and film costume in Australia and the world to design and make historical and contemporary costumes. These networks will support your career when you graduate.

Having honed your skills in the professionally equipped costume workshop, you will expand knowledge about the functions of a costume department in theatre and film. By third year you’ll take responsibility for a team as a costume supervisor on the productions. This includes budget management and collaborating with actors, stage managers and costume designers.

To complete your degree, you’ll take your skills on a placement with leading theatre, opera and dance companies and major film and television studios. You will graduate with a robust skillset, valuable industry connections and confidence about your future.

Areas of study

Budget management, costume construction, costume management, department supervision, draping, leatherwork, millinery, pattern making, period cutting, tailoring.

Career opportunities

Costume supervisor, costume maker, costume cutter, costume assistant or standby, theatrical tailor, buyer, stylist, finisher, milliner, wardrobe manager.

Practical experience

All students spend time undertaking industry placements with leading professional companies or individuals.

Fees and charges

Refer to NIDA current fee information.