INNOVATIVE PROGRAM IN COSTUME DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

MFA IN THEATRE COSTUME DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY OPTION

The graduate program in costume design and technology at Kent State University is a three year program dedicated to the successful development of designers and technologists for the myriad of entertainment venues and teachers in the field of Theatrical Costume Design/Technology.  Graduates of the program work successfully in regional, commercial and university theatres nationwide and internationally.  They also work in more commercial venues like film, television, theme parks and even cruise ship entertainment.  Graduate students are admitted to the program every 3 years, allowing for intense one on one mentoring and training.

Curriculum:

The opportunity to study with full-time faculty members and staff provides graduate students the benefit of learning diverse methodologies and aesthetic sensibilities.  It also allows the faculty to offer a range of specialized courses and diverse opportunities.

Graduate students take courses in costume design and history, textiles, wig dressing and ventilation techniques, costume crafts, costume construction, and shop management.  Additional courses in other areas are designed to enhance research methodologies, theoretical foundations and teaching skills.

                  

Study outside the School of Theatre and Dance may include art courses, jewelry making, textile creations/modification, fashion classes and studying with the Kent Fashion Museum curator.  Professional internships are offered in the region; in Chicago; in New York City: and other areas.  These internships are often paid and are part of the Advanced Studies Class, requiring rigourous evaluations from professionals the student works with.

Production Opportunities:

Graduate students often collaborate as design assistants with faculty or guest designers, as well as designing for main stage productions, branch campuses, and professional regional theatres.

Graduate students design a realized production in theatre or dance each semester.  They also have the opportunity to design at Porthouse Theatre, the school’s equity summer theatre.  The opportunity to create fully realized and supported production work and develop a professional portfolio is the ultimate goal.

Teaching Opportunities:

The Master of Fine Arts is a terminal degree and is a requirement for most higher education institutions or teaching positions.  Therefore, M.F.A. Costume Design students receive training to become a teacher, produce a teaching portfolio and vitae, and have the opportunity to teach three (3) classes; Introductory Costume; Construction Techniques and Beginning Make-up.

 

Three Sisters Fall 2008

 

Recruitment:

The School of Theatre admits a limited number of applicants every three (3) years and attends SETC and USITT conferences in that 3rd year to recruit on site.  All Graduate Students receive a graduate stipend and assistance with health insurance.

 

 

Contact Suzy Q. Campbell, Associate Professor of Costume Design & Technology scampbe2@kent.edu

Office 330-672-0115 or Cell Phone at 330-697-7187

 Why not come for a visit to Explore Kent State’s School of Theatre & Dance

·         And check out your options

·         Discuss your goals

·         Discuss opportunities

·         Check out our facilities

·         Meet students who are in the program

·         See a production and our excellent production values

·         Ascertain that your faculty mentor is the right person to help you attain your goals.

 

AFTERALL---IT’S YOUR FUTURE!

 

 

 

MFA Application Checklist

Send to Research and Graduate Studies Office of Graduate Services, 116 Cartwright Hall, PO Box 5190, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242

Send to the School of Theatre and Dance, B141 Music and Speech, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242

 

 Graduate Catalog Course Descriptions, click here.

 

Back to Design and Technology Graduate Programs.

 
Last updated: 02/13/2009
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