HNC Specialist Make-up

In a nutshell

This higher level course is the first year of a two year programme and covers the advanced technical skills and knowledge needed to work in the make up industry for film, TV and theatre.

This course is for you if...

... You have a professional interest in theatre and film make up
... You’re creative
... You’re hardworking and dedicated

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.

This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in theatre or film makeup, if you intend to follow a career in the industry and have achieved Level 2 and 3 in Theatrical Makeup or have equivalent industry experience.

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 two year Level 4/5 course is designed for those with a professional interest in theatre or film make up. It specialises in developing advanced skills and knowledge necessary to work in the world of film, TV and theatre.

You’ll cover units including:

Year 1

• The Performing Arts Industry
• Professional Development
• Fashion and Fashion Editorial Make Up
• Costume Construction
• Period Hair and Make Up
• Hair and Make Up Application - Facial Postiche
• Special FX 1
• Stagecraft

Year 2

• Special FX 2
• Creative Research Project
• Working in the Performing Arts Industry
• Mask and Puppet Making
• The Freelance Make Up Artist - Wigmaking
• Management Role
• Costume Design

Practical skills are assessed through a series of timed practical assessments set from an industry related brief, which are supported with an extensive journal of research and development log. Theory units are assessed through case studies, research journals and presentations.

Masterclasses facilitated by industry experts take place throughout the 2 year programme.

Once complete, you’ll achieve the Pearson HND in Performing Arts (Specialist Make Up) – Levels 4 and 5 however, you’ll achieve a HNC in Performing Arts after the first year of study.

What is expected of me?

To enter this course, you’ll need 4 GCSEs A*- C including English and Art, a Level 3 qualification in Theatrical and Media Make Up (minimum vocational merit profile) or equivalent industrial experience.

Dedicated, creative and inspirational attributes in a learner will be expected.

What comes next?

On successful completion of the HNC you’ll progress to the HND at Coleg Gwent. Following successful completion of your HND you could then progress further to "Top Up" on a BA (Hons) Degree in Media Make Up at an appropriate university.

Additional information

You’ll be expected to purchase a uniform and a wig kit which will cost approximately £250

There may be other costs linked to travel and accommodation for Masterclass training.

Code of dress:

• Uniform
• Hair must be neatly tied back off the face