Some stay in Chicago and some leave immediately for employment elsewhere in the country. For graduates of the Costume Technology Program employment opportunities are good. Unlike many branches of the profession, costume technicians are often hired for a full season at a regional theater or dance or opera company, rather than for one show only. If hired into a costume shop for a television studio, independent shop in New York, theme park, etc. Of course they may also work freelance on a perproduction basis.
Most graduates enter the profession directly.
Usually, students who are considering a graduate degree, enter one after a few years of work experience. There are a small number of excellent graduate programs in Costume Technology available to students who wish to pursue postgraduate education. Janet C. Messmer, head of the Costume Technology Program, is a professional costumiere who has worked for Steppenwolf Theater, The Goodman Theatre, The Court Theatre, The American Players Theatre, Ruth Page Dance Company, and The Lyric Opera. Ms. Messmer is also the curator of the costume collection at the Evanston Historical Society and lectures widely on the history of fashion and social history.