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What are some good ways to find and research colleges when your major isn’t particularly common?
The major I’m currently looking at is production and design but more specifically costumes and I’m struggling to find schools.
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3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
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Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You might have to adjust your boolean search words in a Google search, and see what you can come up with. Possibly use terms like:
*Colleges and Production and Costume Design
*Colleges and Production Design and Costumes
*Colleges and Production and Costumes
Or something close to these. Give it a try and see if your results are better.
*Colleges and Production and Costume Design
*Colleges and Production Design and Costumes
*Colleges and Production and Costumes
Or something close to these. Give it a try and see if your results are better.
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Google - Costume designers, who tend to have at least a bachelor's degree and at most a master's in costuming, usually get their start as costume makers. They might begin by working on college or community productions or interning for university costume departments. From there, they progress to become assistant designers.
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/top-10-costume-design-schools-united-states/
Hopefully this is helpful
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/top-10-costume-design-schools-united-states/
Hopefully this is helpful
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Researching colleges for a less common major like production and design with a focus on costumes can be challenging, but there are effective ways to identify schools that offer programs aligned with your interests. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you find suitable colleges:
1. **Start with Online Searches:**
- Begin your search with online resources like college search engines, websites, and directories. Use specific keywords such as "costume design," "theatre production," or "production and design" to narrow down your options.
2. **Consult College Directories:**
- Look into college directories like the College Board, Peterson's, or the Princeton Review. These directories provide comprehensive information on colleges and their programs.
3. **Specialized Websites:**
- Explore specialized websites related to theatre, arts, and design. Websites like Niche, College Confidential, and Cappex often provide reviews and insights into specific programs.
4. **Contact College Advisers:**
- Reach out to your high school guidance counselor or college adviser for assistance. They may have insights or resources to help you identify suitable colleges.
5. **Attend College Fairs:**
- Attend college fairs or events in your area. These events often feature representatives from various colleges and can provide opportunities for in-person discussions.
6. **Search for Theatre or Arts Schools:**
- Look for colleges that specialize in theatre arts, performing arts, or fine arts. These institutions are more likely to offer programs related to costume design and production.
7. **Review College Websites:**
- Visit the websites of colleges you're interested in. Explore their academic programs, departments, and course offerings. Look for programs related to theatre, costume design, or production.
8. **Check Accreditation:** Ensure that the colleges you consider are accredited by recognized accreditation bodies. Accreditation is important for the quality and recognition of your degree.
9. **Read Student Reviews:** Search for student reviews and testimonials about the colleges and their programs. These can provide insights into the student experience and the strengths of the program.
10. **Reach Out to Professors:** Contact professors or instructors in the theatre or design departments of colleges you're interested in. Ask questions about their programs, curriculum, and opportunities for students.
11. **Consider Location:** Think about your preferred location for college. Do you want to study in a specific city, state, or region? Location can play a significant role in your college choice.
12. **Financial Aid and Scholarships:** Research financial aid options and scholarships available for students pursuing majors in theatre, arts, or design. Financial considerations are essential in your decision-making process.
13. **Visit Campuses (if possible):** If feasible, visit the campuses of your top choices. Campus visits can give you a sense of the environment and facilities.
14. **Talk to Current Students:** If you visit campuses or connect with students online, ask them about their experiences in the production and design programs.
15. **Consider Online Programs:** Don't rule out online programs. Some colleges offer reputable online degrees in areas like costume design, which can provide flexibility in your education.
Remember that finding the right college for your unique major may require some extra effort, but it's worth it to pursue your passion. Take your time to gather information, ask questions, and evaluate your options carefully. By using a combination of online resources, in-person visits, and h by networking, you can identify colleges that offer the production and design program you're looking for.
1. **Start with Online Searches:**
- Begin your search with online resources like college search engines, websites, and directories. Use specific keywords such as "costume design," "theatre production," or "production and design" to narrow down your options.
2. **Consult College Directories:**
- Look into college directories like the College Board, Peterson's, or the Princeton Review. These directories provide comprehensive information on colleges and their programs.
3. **Specialized Websites:**
- Explore specialized websites related to theatre, arts, and design. Websites like Niche, College Confidential, and Cappex often provide reviews and insights into specific programs.
4. **Contact College Advisers:**
- Reach out to your high school guidance counselor or college adviser for assistance. They may have insights or resources to help you identify suitable colleges.
5. **Attend College Fairs:**
- Attend college fairs or events in your area. These events often feature representatives from various colleges and can provide opportunities for in-person discussions.
6. **Search for Theatre or Arts Schools:**
- Look for colleges that specialize in theatre arts, performing arts, or fine arts. These institutions are more likely to offer programs related to costume design and production.
7. **Review College Websites:**
- Visit the websites of colleges you're interested in. Explore their academic programs, departments, and course offerings. Look for programs related to theatre, costume design, or production.
8. **Check Accreditation:** Ensure that the colleges you consider are accredited by recognized accreditation bodies. Accreditation is important for the quality and recognition of your degree.
9. **Read Student Reviews:** Search for student reviews and testimonials about the colleges and their programs. These can provide insights into the student experience and the strengths of the program.
10. **Reach Out to Professors:** Contact professors or instructors in the theatre or design departments of colleges you're interested in. Ask questions about their programs, curriculum, and opportunities for students.
11. **Consider Location:** Think about your preferred location for college. Do you want to study in a specific city, state, or region? Location can play a significant role in your college choice.
12. **Financial Aid and Scholarships:** Research financial aid options and scholarships available for students pursuing majors in theatre, arts, or design. Financial considerations are essential in your decision-making process.
13. **Visit Campuses (if possible):** If feasible, visit the campuses of your top choices. Campus visits can give you a sense of the environment and facilities.
14. **Talk to Current Students:** If you visit campuses or connect with students online, ask them about their experiences in the production and design programs.
15. **Consider Online Programs:** Don't rule out online programs. Some colleges offer reputable online degrees in areas like costume design, which can provide flexibility in your education.
Remember that finding the right college for your unique major may require some extra effort, but it's worth it to pursue your passion. Take your time to gather information, ask questions, and evaluate your options carefully. By using a combination of online resources, in-person visits, and h by networking, you can identify colleges that offer the production and design program you're looking for.