Course summary
This course is aimed at both costume-making and costume supervising. Costume Making We teach costume-making from first principles including basic sewing skills, pattern-cutting and grading, through to the finished product. These skills, as well as other maintenance and alterations, are practised throughout the course by working with peers and professionals on all the RADA public productions as assistants. Through this you will improve work speed and gain experience in using different fabrics and vintage costumes from our store. You will learn pattern manipulation and grading, block pattern cutting, cutting on the stand and draping and encouraged to explore other forms. Some garments are taken through to completion as class projects, including corsetry, ruffs, period shirt tailoring and millinery. Others form personal projects in the second year, which are supervised, although you will be expected to work semi-independently in preparation for professional work. Costume Supervising Costume supervising is taught in the classroom with script analysis, budget skills and communication and management skills. It is also practised in conjunction with other students and with the opportunity to supervise two or three public performances. We also provide experience of other elements of a wardrobe department, including introductory classes in hair and make-up, wig knotting, history of costume and costume props, fabric treatments and props skills. The course also includes a research project where you will choose an area in the world and research the fashions during a given period, including influences such as political, environmental and world events. Timetable and workload The MA Theatre Costume is comprised of eight modules studied across two academic years. Practical modules form the backbone of the programme, featuring work on public productions. This programme is taught in-person, with at least 35 contact hours per week on average. Production periods may require longer hours, including evenings and weekends. Training is mostly onsite at RADA with occasional online and offsite sessions.
Assessment method
You will be assessed throughout the course on your progress. Assessment is provided through written feedback, peer review and tutorials. Students will complete a reflective self-assessment, after the completion of each module.
Entry requirements
We require you to have appropriate educational degree level qualifications and/or professional work experience with demonstrated involvement in theatre, performance, or the broader entertainment industry. Candidates must also meet at least one of the following criteria: A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree, or a recognised equivalent international qualification; or Experience in costume practical execution and supervision OR experience in one of these areas with advanced knowledge of the other.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £15500 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £15500 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £15500 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £15500 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £15500 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £15500 | Year 1 |
| EU | £25000 | Year 1 |
| International | £25000 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Almost all materials and resources you require for your course, including travel for any trips, are included in your tuition fees.
Other material costs (not included in your tuition fee): approximately £300 + laptop (where required to purchase)
The things not covered include protective footwear, practice clothes, play texts and stationery.
International students will also need to pay for visa costs (excluding the cost of a Confirmation for Acceptance for Studies (CAS))
Provider information
Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
62-64 Gower Street
Camden
WC1E 6ED