VTCT Diploma in Theatrical Special Effects and Hair and Media Make-Up Level 3

In a nutshell

This is a dynamic and in-depth course looking at the skilled work done by a special effects make-up artist and the skills you'll need for a career in this exciting field.

This course is for you if...

... You love all things hair and beauty
... You have a special interest in theatre, TV and film makeup
... You’re creative and hardworking
... You intend to follow a career in the industry and have achieved Level 2 Theatrical Makeup or have equivalent industry experience.

What will I be doing?

Special effects makeup artists work with live models or performers to transform them into characters or creatures (usually for the purposes of an act or a play as described in film and TV scripts). Their work involves applying makeup and/or prosthetics to achieve the desirable theatrical effect.

You’ll gain the skills you need to start a successful career in theatrical and media makeup and will learn about working in the industry. During your time at college there will be opportunities to attend work experience and participate in regional and national competitions.

This course covers:

• Makeup for stage and film
• Fantasy makeup
• Character makeup
• Prosthetics
• Bridal and fantasy hair
• Work placement (photo shoots, short films and theatre)
• Air brush makeup and body art
• High fashion
• Face and body painting
• Ageing for stage and film
• Bald caps
• Crepe hair beards and moustaches
• Period makeup
• Casualty effects
• Camouflage and sex reversal
• Asian bridal

You’ll be assessed via practical and online assessments, assignments and a portfolio of work. Upon completion, you’ll achieve:

• Level 3 Diploma Theatrical and Media Make Up
• Appropriate supporting qualifications to broaden your skill set and meet the needs of industry
• Skills Activities
• English and Maths (if you haven't achieved a grade C or above at GCSE level)
• Creative Enrichment Skills (community activities and demonstrations)

What is expected of me?

You will need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or above to include English/Welsh First Language, and to have completed the Level 2 Diploma in Hair and Media Makeup/Theatrical Makeup.

Direct entry onto this programme is possible if you have previous experience in the makeup industry.

What comes next?

After completing this course, you can go on to employment in the makeup industry through TV, theatre or freelance work, or you can go onto higher education courses such as our HNC/D in Specialist Make-up at Crosskeys Campus.

Additional information

Code of dress:

• Uniform
• Hair must be neatly tied back off the face
• No piercings
• No jewellery other than a wedding ring is allowed to be worn in the salon

As a condition of your place on this course, you will be expected to purchase the appropriate kit, from our approved supplier, cost TBC.

To reflect industry expectations, you will be required to wear a Coleg Gwent salon uniform which is to be ordered from our approved supplier. Details on how to order your uniform, with supplier payment options, can be obtained from your Head of School, Lecturer or Technician. The price for 2024/2025 is around £45, subject to inflationary price increase.

Additional costs could occur during the year for educational visits.

All costs are under review and subject to change.