• Full Time

HND Specialist Make Up

Apply now
Subject Area
Hair, Beauty and Complementary Therapies
Start date
22 September 2025
Mode of study
Full Time
Location
Crosskeys Campus

Course Overview

This higher level course is the second 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.

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

… You are qualified at Level 4 in the specialist area of Make Up.

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 4 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 one year Level 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:

  • Creative Research Project
  • Working in the Performing Arts Industry
  • Mask Making
  • The Freelance Hair and Make Up Artist – Wigmaking
  • Management Role
  • Hair and Make Up Design
  • Advanced Special FX

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 programme.

To enter this course, you’ll need 4 GCSEs A*- C including English and Art, a Level 4/HNC qualification in Specialist Theatrical and Media Make Up.

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

On successful completion of this course you’ll progress to “Top Up” on a BA (Hons) Degree in Media Make Up at an appropriate university.

To enter this course, you’ll need 4 GCSEs A*- C including English and Art, a Level 4/HNC qualification in Specialist Theatrical and Media Make Up.

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

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

Crosskeys Campus

Course Code
CFHD0033AA
Mode of study
Full Time

All courses may be subject to change and cancelled if deemed not viable to run.

Upcoming events

BGLZ campus looking busy at an open event

November 2025 College Open Evening

Details
All courses
Location
All campuses
Time
5pm – 7.30pm
Find out more
Student Union representatives smiling

January 2026 College Open Evening

Details
All courses
Location
All campuses
Time
5pm – 7.30pm
Find out more
Student ambassador with a campus tour sign

March 2026 College Open Day

Details
All courses
Location
All campuses
Time
10am – 12.30pm
Find out more