A program in costume design is typically focused on teaching students the basics of constructing a garment from scratch. Students may learn everything from how to design a pattern to how to fit the finished garment on a person.

A course is the study of a particular topic within a wider subject area and is the foundation of a qualification. A typical course includes lectures, assessments and tutorials.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.