Entry requirements
You would normally start in your career by gaining at least a Level 2 qualification in media make-up or an equivalent qualification. There are a wide range of courses available through colleges and private training providers.
Examples of relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Hair, Photographic and Media Make-up
- Level 2/3 Diploma in Hair and Media Make-up
- Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects, Hair and Media Make-up
- Level 3 Diploma in Fashion, Theatre and Media Make-up.
Some universities offer foundation degrees and degrees in media make-up and related subjects. To do a degree you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and science, plus three A levels. You should check with universities for exact entry requirements as other qualifications may also be accepted.
You can search for degree courses on the UCAS website:
As well as taking a make-up course, getting some practical experience could improve your career prospects. Practical experience will help you to create a portfolio of your work to show to employers. It will also allow you to start getting to know people in the industry and build a network of contacts.
You could get useful experience in various ways, such as:
- amateur theatre
- student film, theatre and photography projects
- charity or student fashion shows
- working with established make-up artists and photographers.
Your first paid work in film or TV may be as a trainee or assistant to the make-up team. You might also find casual work doing make-up and hair for extras in crowd scenes.
You may be able to start in this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and types of skills employers need from their workers. To find out more visit the Apprenticeship website.
- Apprenticeships
- Training and development
You would learn and develop your skills on the job by helping experienced make-up artists.
You may be able to find trainee positions at the start of your career or places on new entrant training schemes. These are sometimes run by:
- broadcasters
- regional screen agencies
- media training organisations.
Competition for places on schemes like this is very strong. You will need to show genuine commitment and some relevant work experience. The Creative Skillset website has a trainee placement scheme for those who already have a little experience in the industry. There is eligibility criteria. See the Creative Skillset website for more information.
Some broadcasting companies offer trainee schemes and other ways of getting industry experience. Some schemes only recruit at certain times of the year and competition can be very strong. See their websites for more information, eligibility criteria and availability.
You should keep up to date with new make-up techniques and materials throughout your career. Short courses in specialist and prosthetic make-up are available at private make-up academies, film schools and some universities.
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