Theatre (Costume Studies) (BA)
Study the history and creation of costumes.
Why choose this program?
Our Costume Studies program is unique in North America. It has a strong historical focus on both theatre and museum work, and stresses applied skills, along with research and academic skills.
You’ll achieve a well-rounded education, equally able to turn your hand to creating costumes from any historical period and for all genders, and to the kinds of problem-solving which have come to be expected of graduates with a broad liberal arts education.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
Minimum overall average: 70%
Academic English 12
Four additional academic subjects
Applications for Honours in Theatre are not considered by the Fountain School of Performing Arts until the winter term of the student’s third year. Please enquire at the School for the relevant deadline.
Supplemental information
Applicants to the Diploma in Costume Studies should include a Letter of Intent containing information pertaining to any prior experience in costume related activities and reflections on “Why Costume Studies?” (1-2 pages). Also include any available photographic images of costume work.
Financial information
A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you.
Program options
The foundations of Costume Studies began in 1974 and the program has adapted and grown into the most unique of its kind in North America. We offer a four-year BA Honours Theatre degree in Costume Studies, and a two-year Diploma in Costume Studies.
The following Costume Studies program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Theatre (Costume Studies)
Diploma in Costume Studies
What you will learn
Learn to create clothing from historical periods using bespoke, one-of-a-kind couturier methods. You will also learn why and how clothing contributes to the formation of personal, community, and cultural identities.
Gain a strong proficiency in costume history, exploring why people clothed themselves as they did, paying attention to social and cultural influences, along with class and gender differentiation.
Sample courses may include:
Writing About Performance
Writing About Stage and Screen
Introduction to Costume Studies
- Aesthetics of Contemporary Dress – Pattern Drafting
- Castle to Café - Dress from 1450 to 1700
- Language of Design
- Costume in Performance
- Bustles to Boardroom - Modern Fashion from 1900
- Body-Shaping Through Historical Tailoring
The Sculpture of Dress – Draping
Aesthetics of Historical Dress
Gender and Theatre
In addition to class projects and assignments, you will have an opportunity to hone your skills by working on costumes for the Fountain School's stage productions and in the creation of a major historical research project, presented to the public, at the end of the academic year.
Careers
The program prepares you for a successful career in the varied career paths related to costume. Students with a passion for costume are well-equipped for careers in theatre, film, and television.
Graduates of the program also leave with the academic study and research skills necessary to continue to graduate-level studies in historical research, museum/curatorial and conservation, as well as costume design.
