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Choosing what to study can be challenging. Speak to one of our advisors to find out what your options are.

Advice & Help Centre

This study programme is designed for 16 to 19 year olds (aged 19 to 24 for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan).

All courses take place on our Sixth Form Campus, therefore any applicants aged 25+ or over who do not have an Education, Health and Care Plan may be required to complete a DBS check as part of the conditional offer to West Suffolk College. The cost to the applicant for a DBS is £30.00 and the DBS check can be completed through the college.

Please visit our Adult EducationDegrees and Employer section for alternative courses.

About the course

The Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Media Make-up Artistry provides you with specialist practical skills and knowledge, equipping you to seek employment or progression within the Media Make-up industry.

Media hair and make-up artistry is a fast paced, demanding and exciting industry and learners must be prepared to put in additional hours of practice at home. You will be required to work as artists backstage at fashion shows and theatre productions as part of your mandatory work experience, helping to enhance and develop your skills and build your confidence.

Entry requirements

Entry is by interview. This course requires the learners to hold a Level 2 Media Hair and Make-up certificate or equivalent. Successful applicants will be required to have current or planned work experience within the industry.

Every student is expected to hold a GCSE C grade (4) in English and maths or higher.

Qualifications

Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Media Make-up Artistry.

What you'll learn (core modules)

This qualification covers a wide range of skills and knowledge required for working in the Media Make-up industry.

Mandatory Units:

- Working in the film, TV and theatre industry

- Create historical hair and makeup looks

- Media make up creative hair design

- Fashion and photographic makeup

- The creation and presentation of a look book and industry portfolio

- Apply body art

- Camouflage makeup

 

Optional Units:

- The Evolution of Cosmetics and Retail

- Avant-garde hair and makeup

- Media make-up blogging

- Specialist bridal hair and makeup

 

Benefits, skills and character strengths

Working in the make-up industry attracts passionate, artistic and hardworking individuals, this is a demanding industry where maximum job satisfaction is guaranteed for the right person. This is an industry where teamwork, artistry and creative flair is part of every working day, bringing with it the responsibility and rewards that ensure that each day offers new and exciting challenges. If you are looking for a long term, varied career that motivates and inspires your passion then this is the career for you.

How will I be assessed?

This course has an end point practical assessment, similar to a trade test, covering practical skills and behaviours of the professional make up artist. Final assessments occur at the beginning of the third and final term. At the end of the second term, learners will take a written theory exam paper, covering a range of knowledge across the qualification. Learners will also complete four optional units covering. All elements must be completed and achieved in order to receive the full qualification.

Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)

Within the fully equipped West Suffolk College hair and make-up studio for practical lessons. Theory lessons will take place in a classroom, with access to IT when neccessary.

Where will the course take me?

Progression to employment or to degree level courses within the area. The course carries a maximum of 85 UCAS points, dependent upon final grade.

Will I need any materials or equipment?

Upon enrolment to the course, learners will receive order forms for a hair and make-up kit, this kit will include all of the relevant tools and equipment required to complete the course, and to practice at home. Learners are expected to look professional and well groomed, and must attend practical lessons in professional attire consisting of a black top, black trousers or jeans (not to be ripped or faded) and black enclosed toe flat shoes or trainers. Learners will need to consider additional costs for trips and visits arranged during the course. Enrichment activities will be offered throughout the year, including visits and talks from industry relevant hair and make-up artists.

How much will it cost?

Hair and make-up kit - cost of kit TBC.

Enrichment trips and excursions require a small payment - cost TBC.  

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Apply online via the West Suffolk College website, complete the application form and you will be called in to the college for an interview with a member of the team. During interview, you will recieve further information about the programme, and information on course enrolment.

Days & times

Starting September 2023


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