Overview

The Costume Design programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a comprehensive education in the art of visual storytelling through attire. This advanced degree focuses on the intersection of historical research, character analysis, and technical craftsmanship. Students are encouraged to find their unique creative voice while preparing for the demands of professional production environments.

Why Costume Design at Academy of Art University?

The university offers a "no barriers" approach to education, providing students with access to industry-standard facilities and professional mentorship. Learners benefit from collaborations with working professionals and exposure to real-world technology. The campus features specialised studios, including a dedicated prop room with thousands of items and extensive painting and sculpture centres.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build fundamental skills that apply to every avenue of creativity and design. Modules may include:

Costume Design
Fashion Art Direction
Textile Design
Character Analysis
Historical Research
Portfolio Development
Technical Filmmaking

Careers with Costume Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global entertainment and fashion industries. Alumni have successfully secured positions at major organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group and Warner Bros. Discovery. The training focuses on producing career-ready work that allows designers to lead teams and shape culture in film, television, and theatre.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Fashion, Arts, and Influence

Fashion Construction

Costume Design

3D Design

Costume Design

History of 20th Century Fashion Arts

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Fashion, Textiles and Luxury Goods Fashion Design View 48 other Masters in Fashion Design in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application.

$50 application fee.

Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Costume Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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