UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma in Hair and Make-up, Costume and Special Effects Makeup
Ready to turn your creative skills into a career in TV and film?
Explore our Hair and Makeup, Costume, and Special Effects course, developed with industry experts to launch your journey into visual storytelling. Perfect the craft of character creation, from historical accuracy to fantastical transformations. This program is your gateway to becoming an essential part of any tv and film production.
Delivered in partnership with
ABOUT THE COURSE
Our Hair, Makeup, Costume, and Special Effects course equips you with specialised skills essential for the exciting world of film and television. This comprehensive training spans basic techniques to advanced applications, preparing you for diverse roles in the industry.
80% of your study time will be at our state-of-the-art facilities at Pinewood Studios, the heart of British film. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to learn from industry-recognised professionals, including Makeup and Hair Designers, Mould Makers, Sculptors, Costume Designers, Breakdown Artists, and Costume Cutters. The remainder of your coursework and academic support takes place at the Buckinghamshire College Group Amersham Campus, complementing your practical studio experience.
Key Facts
1 Year
£6,000 Tuition Fee
Amersham/Pinewood
Free for those under 19
What will I learn?
In this course, you’ll master practical, hands-on skills in Hair, Makeup, Prosthetic Makeup, and Costume, gaining the experience needed to excel in the film and TV industry.
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Makeup & Hair: From character-building to period-specific looks, you’ll explore techniques for both contemporary and historical hair and makeup styles, creating authentic on-screen transformations.
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Prosthetic Makeup: Learn the art of prosthetics, including sculpting, moulding, and application, essential for creating special effects makeup used in sci-fi, horror, and fantasy genres.
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Costume & Breakdown: Dive into costume design and breakdown techniques, including fabric aging, dyeing, and distressing to create costumes that reflect the story’s world and characters.
Throughout the course, you’ll build a portfolio of transferable skills, from teamwork and communication to problem-solving, while learning to navigate real-world production environments.
Example Modules & Assessment
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The Film Industry and its etiquette
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Costume making, breakdown, painting, and fabric selection.
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Modern and Period Hair and Makeup techniques
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Character design, references and research
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Sculpting, moulding and casting prosthetics
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Prosthetics application and finishing techniques
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Script Breakdown
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Team roles and responsibilities
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Entrepreneurial skills
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Project Management
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Across the programme you will have continuous assessment with particular focus on practical work required for the projects. In the UAL grading structure your final grade, Pass. Merit or Distinction is based on the final major project.
Entry Requirements & Career Progression
Eligibility: You must be 18 years or older to apply. While GCSEs in English and Maths are advantageous, we also welcome mature candidates who demonstrate strong literacy and numeracy skills. To apply, please visit the Buckinghamshire College Group website (link below). An interview will be part of the admission process to assess your suitability for the course.
Career Pathways: Upon completing this course, you'll likely begin your career as a Trainee in roles such as Makeup Artist, Costume Designer, Prosthetics Artist, Hair Stylist, or Special Effects Makeup Technician. As you gain experience, you'll have the opportunity to work your way up to senior positions in the film, TV, or theatre industries, with freelance opportunities being common in these fields.
Funding
This course is run in conjunction with our partners Buckinghamshire College, the course will be split between Pinewood and Amersham College. If you are under 19 on the date of enrolment this course is funded.
There is an additional Material Fee of £350 which can be paid through the Online Store. If you are over 19 on the date of enrolment the course Fee is £6000. You will be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan through the government's Student Finance website for £5420 and the remaining £580 can be paid in four instalments through the Online Store. This cost includes the Material Fee.
Please see here for more information on funding from our partner, Buckinghamshire College.