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    Makeup Artistry Prosthetic FX & Wig Making Foundation Degree

    Course Overview

    Would you like to be a professional makeup artist, working on TV productions such as Game of
    Thrones and Doctor Who or on blockbuster films such as Star Wars and the Marvel series? Perhaps you see yourself working for companies such as Madame Tussauds or The English National Opera? That’s exactly what some of our graduates have gone on to achieve, and with
    this course under your belt, there’s every chance for you to follow suit.

    This unique programme will give you:

    • An in-depth understanding of the media make-up industry.
    • Insight into the role of make-up artists in relation to stage, TV and film, fashion editorial and promotional shoots.
    • The skills and creative flair to use make-up to express emotions, transform faces and portray character.
    • The technical and artistic skills for complete make-up transformations.
    • The research skills required to ensure the quality and accuracy of character portrayal.
    • Skills in the art of hair work, character development, body painting, postiche, wig-making and prosthetics.
    • A comprehensive portfolio of work to show prospective employers.
    • The opportunity to undertake work-based learning and live projects in the media world.

    Apply for Makeup Artistry Prosthetic FX & Wig Making Foundation Degree via UCAS

    Request Prospectus Apply via UCAS

    Course Overview

    Course Overview

    Would you like to be a professional makeup artist, working on TV productions such as Game of
    Thrones and Doctor Who or on blockbuster films such as Star Wars and the Marvel series? Perhaps you see yourself working for companies such as Madame Tussauds or The English National Opera? That’s exactly what some of our graduates have gone on to achieve, and with
    this course under your belt, there’s every chance for you to follow suit.

    This unique programme will give you:

    • An in-depth understanding of the media make-up industry.
    • Insight into the role of make-up artists in relation to stage, TV and film, fashion editorial and promotional shoots.
    • The skills and creative flair to use make-up to express emotions, transform faces and portray character.
    • The technical and artistic skills for complete make-up transformations.
    • The research skills required to ensure the quality and accuracy of character portrayal.
    • Skills in the art of hair work, character development, body painting, postiche, wig-making and prosthetics.
    • A comprehensive portfolio of work to show prospective employers.
    • The opportunity to undertake work-based learning and live projects in the media world.

    Student Spotlight

    Billie Batten, BA (Hons) Media Make-up

    There are loads of elements to my degree and I enjoy the variety. I’m confident I’ll be able to pick up freelance work as a result of the contacts I’m making. The course uses a lot of outside experts, who work with us and set us real-world projects to develop our skills.

    Assessment

    Assessment Methods

    Our specialist staff have extensive knowledge of the industry, along with the experience and expertise to guide you as you develop your skill set. The programme is modular in design, and assessment is continuous, by means of coursework. You will complete written assignments, journals and design presentations, as well as undertaking regular practical projects. You will also attend lectures and workshops and develop your research skills throughout the course.

    Entry Requirements and Progression

    Progression

    Once the Foundation Degree has been completed, students can apply to the BA (Hons) Makeup Artistry, Prosthetic FX and Wig Making Top-up available at UCS. Because this course equips you with high-level practical skills, there is every chance of securing work upon graduation. Our students take up roles within theatre, television and film production companies, as well as working with makeup agencies in fashion and editorial. Others have gone on to work within the medical sector, making training appliances, prosthetic limbs and medical wigs.

    Entry Requirements

    Typically entrants will possess:

    • A minimum of 64 UCAS points from a relevant Level 3 qualification
    • At least four GCSEs at grade 4 and above including English, or equivalent Level 2 Literacy.

    Mature applicants with relevant experience who do not have the stated entry requirements are encouraged to apply.

    You will be asked to bring a creative portfolio to interview. Additional kit and materials will be required.

    Please see the course page on our website for further details.

    Fees

    The course fee is £8950.00* per year of study.

    For more information regarding course fees, please read our 'Fees and Funding' page.

    *Fees are subject to review annually. The fees for existing students may be increased annually in line with the Retail Price Index.

    The course requires you to purchase a wide range of materials and equipment that you will need to complete the practical modules and these may be different in each year of the course. Kits of essentials can be purchased through UCS but through the duration of the course it is increasingly likely students will need to purchase their own materials specific to their areas of discipline as they develop. 

    In previous years, UCS has offered a scheme whereby UCS purchases kits at cost which students paid off in instalments. Please contact your Course Leader to determine if such a scheme is still in operation at the time of your study.

    Trips and visits may also incur additional costs.

    Download Course Handbook Policies and Regulations

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    24th June 2025