MFA in Costume Design - FAQ
See Also: How To Apply
Q. How many shows will I design?
At least three. One will be a lab show with a modest budget. Two will be fully supported main stage productions with materials budgets ranging from $1500. to $12,000.
Q. How many costume design students are in the program?
Two or four on alternating years
Q. How many total design students are in the program?
There are twelve students, four in costume design four in lighting design and four in costume design. On alternate years there are two in each area.
Q. How many design students are on assistantship?
All design students are on assistantships.
Q. What does the assistantship cover?
Full remission of tuition, an annual stipend of about $8200.00 and $1500.00 annual travel funding. Total support over three years: more than $107,000.00
Q. What kind of expenses will I incur in this program?
Books, art supplies, passport, computer supplies (paper and ink) and a student activities fee. Any travel costs that exceed $1500. per year. Travel, food and housing expenses for the Travel Abroad Seminar are paid for by the University of Tennessee.
Q. Does the University provide health insurance?
Yes.
Q. Must I specialize in more than one area of design?
No. Only under special circumstances are students allowed to specialize in more than one area. However, independent studies may be arranged in other areas to facilitate the candidate’s interests.
Q. How is the costume shop staffed?
The staff consists of a Costume Shop Manager, draper, two stitchers and overhire. There are two faculty costume designers. Marianne Custer teaches design and Bill Black teaches technology.
Q. Is this a design program or a technology program?
While we feel it is important for design students to have technical skills with which to get work post graduation, the program focuses primarily on design. A variety of courses and workshops are available in costume technology, but much time is devoted to developing the students’ drawing, research and interpretation skills.
Q. How many theatres does the university have?
Three. A 500 seat proscenium theatre, a 350 seat round theatre and a 100 seat lab theatre.
Q. Do the design professors work professionally?
Yes
Q. What other graduate degree programs are offered?
We have an MFA in acting.
Q. Who are the directors with whom I will work?
Directors on the faculty are well-known regional directors. We also bring in several guest directors from New York or regional theatres each year.
