Theatrical Special Effects, Hair and Media Make-up - Level 3 Diploma

If you have an artistic streak and dream of working in the fashion, photography, theatre, TV or cosmetics industry then this course will develop the skills you need to succeed.

This course is ideal if you're seeking a career as an employed or self-employed theatrical special effects make-up artist, providing hair and make-up services in the media, theatre, performing arts, fashion and photographic industries.

In this course, you will learn all the skills needed to set you on the right path in media makeup. Designing and creating characters, you will cast and mould your very own special effects make-up pieces and use them in collaboration with live media and theatre productions.

Topics can include:

• Airbrush make-up - provide airbrush make-up services to clients and learn how to maintain the equipment accurately
• Create and cast small prosthetic pieces and bald caps
• Apply prosthetic pieces and bald caps
• Media make-up
• Camouflage make-up
• Style and fit postiche
• Client care and communication in beauty-related industries
• Monitor and maintain health and safety practices in the salon
• Fantasy hair design for performers
• Fashion and photographic make-up

• A good level of English
• A keen interest in hair and make-up

You will need to attend an assessment session to see if the course is suitable for you.

You will complete unit assignments, a portfolio of evidence, practical assessments and online tests.

AGED 16 - 18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August 2025 before the start date of the course, and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your course then your study with us will be free.

Please see here for the documents you need to show us.

Some courses have additional costs, such as specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

Adults - Level 3

This course may be free if you meet certain conditions:

• If you are not working or have a low income. You need to show proof of your income or benefits.
• If you are aged 19-23 and you do not have a full Level 3 qualification (a full L3 is the equivalent of two A-levels at A* - E grade). You need to show us proof of any qualifications you already have.
• Residency rules apply. You need to show you have permission to live, work and study in the UK without conditions if you live in London, or 3 years if you live outside London.
• There are some exceptions, such as certain visa types.

Check here which documents you need to show us, and which visa types are allowed.

If you do not meet the residency rules, you can still enrol on the course but you may have to pay some fees. All applicants are fee-assessed during enrolment.

If you are not eligible for a free or reduced-cost course, you need to pay the full fee yourself, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

If you have to pay for your course, and decide to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan (ALL), the residency rules are different: https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.

Some courses have additional costs, such as for specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to progress to higher levels of study or start work in a number of careers such as professional make-up artistry, self-employment and beauty and/or hair salons.