The MFA in Design is a three-year sequence that includes courses in all areas of design as well as numerous electives with multiple realized design opportunities. Costume design students first assist another designer on a show, then begin designing on their own. Most costume design students get at least one realized production per year. When not designing, the graduate assistantship affords the student the opportunity for other positions on shows, such as draper, crafts artisan or wig or makeup designer, all of which can bring significant experience and resume credit. Classes are taught focusing on both the artistry of costume design, working closely on rendering and other design skills, as well as the technology of costume design. In the latter category, classes are taught on draping and costume construction, as well as a variety of costume crafts skills, from dyeing to wigs and millinery, and much more. In addition, classes such as Period Styles, which explores the history of costume, architecture and decor, help the student attain the background knowledge essential for the designer.