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Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person Only
University App Required

Program Highlights

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

•3-year MFA program in costume production for the stage
•Develops skills and attitudes needed for professional or educational careers in costume arts
•Emphasis on knowledge and skills necessary to produce costumes for the stage

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

•Affiliated with PlayMakers Repertory Company — an Equity/LORT professional theatre
•Work in a professional costume shop as integral part of training
•Create costumes meeting high standards required in professional theatre

CURRICULUM

•Broad range of costume courses including draping, flat patterning, tailoring, dyeing/painting, and crafts

Key Info

University App

Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
Early ActionOct 15, 2025
Regular DecisionJan 15, 2026
Fee
$85Waiver

Program App

Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Interview Deadline (ideal)Feb 28, 2026
Graduate School ApplicationMar 1, 2026

Interview Requirements

PORTFOLIO (required)

•Link to a portfolio highlighting costume technology experience
•Present portfolio in person during on-campus interview visit

resume (required)

•Include work experience, education, and references

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE (required)

•500-word explanation of educational and professional goals

REFERENCES

•Three references who can speak to interest and ability in costume technology
•Provide email address and phone number for each

Good to Know

APPLICATION

•Apply through UNC Chapel Hill Graduate School
•GRE not required
•All Graduate School applications should be completed before March 1

ENROLLMENT

•Accepted for first year only — continuation into years 2 and 3 subject to MFA faculty approval
•NC residency strongly encouraged after year 1 (out-of-state tuition remission not guaranteed after first year)

What's The Process

THE PROCESS

1. Send resume, statement of purpose, references, and portfolio link to Triffin Morris (triffin@unc.edu)

2. Faculty reviews materials and may invite you for an on-campus interview

3. Interview includes participation in classes, conversations with current students/staff, and portfolio presentation

4. After interview, complete UNC Graduate School application with transcripts, letters of recommendation, and fees

•Interviews should ideally take place before February 28
•Offers are usually made in mid-March

Contact: Triffin Morris — triffin@unc.edu

Scholarship Info

FINANCIAL AID

•Department offers a financial package to all students (details vary year to year)
•Package includes out-of-state tuition waiver for first year, in-state tuition, student fees, and a stipend
•Additional financial aid available through the university
•FAFSA deadline: March 1 for priority consideration
Program info updated 1 week ago

Academic School Information

4.49
Avg GPA (W)
19%
Admit Rate
92%
Grad Rate
20,556
Enrollment
$72,200
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$8,989
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$39,330
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$12,983
after typical aid

Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.

Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$3,165
Family Income $30k - $48k$5,143
Family Income $48k - $75k$11,220
Family Income $75k - $110k$19,106
Family Income $110k+$24,077
View full data on College Scorecard