Hair & Makeup | VTCT Diploma in Theatrical Special Effects, Hair and Media Makeup | Level 3
Why this course?
On this Level 3 course, you'll develop your skills in theatrical special effect media make-up to prepare you for a career as a make-up artist in the creative industries.
Throughout this qualification, you will develop your knowledge and understanding of relevant anatomy, physiology and health and safety. You will also develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to provide a wide range of creative make-up services in media, theatre, film and television, also fashion, editorial and photographic settings. You will also style and fit wigs, and hairpieces, apply false eyelashes as well as understand the related cosmetic science that underpins the subject.
You'll also develop your communication and customer service skills, awareness of environmental sustainability and commercial skills, all of which are valued highly by employers. Problem-solving and research skills will also be developed.
Our expert tutors have links with employers and industry and you will benefit from training in our brand new salon facilities (opened in 2021 as part of our multi-million-pound development of Central Brighton Campus).
Course tutor: Caroline Hand
Start dates
Start | |
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September 2023 | Apply |
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Staff Profiles
See first hand what our course can offer you!
Entry requirements
You must have successfully completed the Level 2 Diploma in Hair & Media Makeup or another relevant subject.
In addition to the specified entry requirements, you may be required to undergo an assessment of your English skills to ensure you are at a sufficient level for your chosen course.
Conduct
You will be expected to present yourselves in a professional manner, and be polite and courteous. You will attend college wearing a uniform, with your hair up, nails cut short and free from varnish, and strictly no jewellery or facial jewellery is allowed. You will be expected to arrive punctually and attend all classes. These are all requirements of the awarding body.

Course content
- Health and safety in the salon
- Client care and communication
- Airbrush make-up
- Cosmetic camouflage
- Media make-up (character, special effects)
- Photographic make-up (period, bridal, fantasy, editorial, fashion)
- Style and fit postiche
- Apply prosthetics and bald caps
- Face and body art
- Creative hair design
Assessment
- Portfolio of evidence
- Practical summative assessments
- Assignments and tasks
- External Examinations
Facilities
- Our hair and beauty department offers brand new training facilities as part of our multi-million-pound development of Central Brighton Campus, which includes six hair & beauty salons and one state-of-the-art clinic
- Gain real-world training experience in our professional salon open to the public
- Use of high-end, industry-branded equipment and products
- Additional training from external companies, such as Kryolan, Screenface and PAM Makeup
- Library and computing facilities
- Access to the MET’s student services, including career advice and additional learning support
- Cafés with a wide range of reasonably priced meals, snacks and drinks
Work experience
Our Hair and Beauty Department has very strong links with local employers, many of whom started their own careers at Brighton MET.
All of our students will have an opportunity to undertake work experience, which often leads to gaining a permanent position or making valuable contacts.
We hold an annual careers day where local, national and international employers will come and give seminars. This will give you valuable information and advice about progression opportunities and setting up your own business.
We also hold training days, trips to trade shows and have guest speakers to keep all of your training and knowledge current and up to date.
During the make-up course you may experience trips or seminars with Kryolan, PAM Makeup, Prosthetics event, IMATS and UMA Expo, Salon International and Professional Beauty
What's next?
Upon completion of your Level 3 qualification, you have the option to develop your knowledge and skills further by completing a specialist qualification, Progress to higher education to our BA (Hons) Makeup and Hair for Theatre and Media degree at our West Durrington campus or a university of your choice. Or upskill with a Level 2 or 3 in hairdressing, barbering or beauty therapy.
Learners who achieve this qualification are eligible to become members of the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) or Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT).
As a specialist make-up artist, learners could progress directly into employment in a variety of contexts, including:
- Professional make-up artistry settings working with performers
- Theatre, film, print media and photographic studios
- Beauty and hair salons
- Independent, self-employed, mobile and home settings
- National Health Service
- Product manufacturing and training
Course fees
Course fees
This course is free (you do not have to pay fees) if:
- You are a UK citizen, hold EU Settlement Status or have a visa which could qualify you for home status.
- AND you are under 19 on 31 August in the year you are studying.
Advanced Learner Loan
You may be eligible to apply for a loan to meet the course costs of your qualification fees. This is paid directly to the College on your behalf. For more information about Advanced Learner Loans, please click here.
Additional costs
Additional costs
You will need to purchase kit and uniform. The cost of this will be provided by the department following your application.