Birmingham City University

Overview

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of costume design with the BSc (Hons) Costume Design and Practice at Birmingham City University. This program places a strong emphasis on practical skills, creative development, and building a professional portfolio that is ready for the industry. You will learn to design for performance and storytelling while engaging with contemporary practices, such as sustainability and digital workflows.

• Award: BSc (Hons) Costume Design and Practice
• Duration: 3 years full-time (with an optional placement year where available)
• Credits: Typically 360 credits for an honours bachelor degree
• Delivery: On-campus, studio- and workshop-based learning
• Language of instruction: English
• Assessment: A combination of studio work, practical projects, presentations, and written critical components

What you'll study

The program is structured around studio practice, design development, and critical study, allowing you to evolve from foundational skills to advanced realization and a significant final-year project.

• Year 1: Foundations in costume and fashion design, garment construction, material and surface study, and introductory critical/contextual work.
• Year 2: Advanced design development and creative direction, deeper exploration of context and theory, and opportunities to expand your practice.
• Final year: Specialised practice focusing on pathways like menswear and/or womenswear, culminating in a major project that showcases your unique design methodology and portfolio outcomes.

Typical learning areas include:

• Design, development, and realization
• Individual aesthetic and creative direction
• Creative realization and production skills
• Context and theory (critical studies)
• Advanced practice and professional portfolio development

Entry requirements

Entry to the program is based on prior qualifications, which may include a range of UK qualifications such as:

• A-Level qualifications with a minimum of 2 A-Levels or equivalent UCAS tariff points
• Access to Higher Education Diploma Pass with relevant credits
• BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma with specified grades to meet UCAS points

Note: Specific subject requirements and any portfolio or interview expectations may vary—please check the latest entry guidance for this program.

Career prospects

Graduates from the BSc (Hons) Costume Design and Practice program can pursue a wide array of career opportunities within the fashion and performance industries. With skills in design, production, and critical analysis, you will be well-equipped for roles such as costume designer, stylist, or fashion consultant. Additionally, the program prepares you for further study or research within the field.