Creative Hair Media Makeup Film TV model with blue overlay

Creative Hair and Media Makeup (Film & TV and Prosthetics)

Foundation Degree

Apply now for 2025

Study Creative Hair and Media Makeup (Film & TV and Prosthetics) at University Centre Leeds

Excel behind the scenes with our Creative Hair and Media Makeup (Film & TV and Prosthetics) Foundation Degree. This creative course, delivered in our bespoke makeup facilities within a working television studio, develops the specialist skills demanded by the competitive screen and performance industries while our strong industry links and emphasis on practical learning, prepare you for a successful career as a makeup artist working in film and television. Our recent graduates have gained work on productions such as Prime Suspect, Maleficent 2, Cruella, Peaky Blinders, Gentleman Jack, and other CBeebies and BBC productions.

  • Starts:
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Venue: Quarry Hill Campus and Prime Studios
  • Fee: £9250 (£8745 for tuition fees and £505 for kit fees) per academic year for UK students
     
    International Fee: £14,000 full-time (per academic year) £3,000 Scholarship available
  • UCAS Course Code(s): 8F92
  • UCAS Institution Code: L21
  • Study Mode: Full Time
  • Validated By: Luminate Education Group

Entry Requirements: 32 UCAS Tariff Points

TYPICAL OFFER

UCAS Tariff Points: 32 UCAS tariff points from one A-level (or equivalent qualifications), in a relevant subject

A Levels: 2xD grades, one of which must be in a relevant subject.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma: MP, MPP grade in relevant subjects.

Access to HE Diploma: Overall pass with 60 credits, with 24 credits to be at a Merit grade in a relevant subject.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma: Pass in a relevant subject.

T Levels: Acceptable in a relevant subject.

IELTS: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any component.

International qualifications: International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria.

Mature applicants: University Centre Leeds welcomes applications from mature applicants who may not have met the academic criteria but can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and may be asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application.

*21 years and over at the start of the course

RPL claims: The course structure actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) or Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL).

Interviews / Audition: A successful interview and portfolio review are required.

References: An appropriate reference desirable. 

creative arts model, kind of orc looking

Creative Hair and Media Makeup (Film & TV and Prosthetics)

Our programme blends academic study and practical skills development with industry insight to provide a comprehensive understanding of the screen industries. We encourage professional development, so as you study, you’ll gain industry experience. Throughout the programme you will experience demonstrations, practical skills development,  lectures, sketchbook/research workshops, discussions and presentations, while building your professional portfolio.

As you study, you’ll learn specialist skills from our experienced lecturers such as special effects makeup, prosthetics makeup, hair cutting skills for continuity and wig/facial hair piece knotting. You’ll have opportunities to showcase your work at events and work backstage on productions and shoots, helping you to polish your professional portfolio and enhance your CV. We regularly invite industry experts, previous guest speakers have included Kate Benton (Last Kingdom, Hugo, Love Actually), Stuart Bray (Game of Thrones, Doctor Who)  and Laura Lawrence (Peaky Blinders)  to deliver talks or to run makeup masterclasses.

 

This course is validated by Luminate Education Group

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Creative Arts Facilities

You will train in our bespoke settings at Prime Studios located next to ITV and in our recently built facilities in Quarry Hill Campus in Leeds Cultural Quarter, neighbouring Leeds fashion and retail centre. Leeds has a thriving fashion scene with a rich history and you’ll also have the opportunity to gain practical experience at local events such as Leeds Fashion Ball, Leeds International Festival and national trade shows such as IMATS and United Makeup Artists Expo.

You will be part of the wider Creative arts department at University Centre Leeds and we foster a collaborative ethos through our Creative Arts Network platform and social events. You will have opportunities to make contacts and collaborate with other creative students from photography, performance, graphics, film and art backgrounds to elevate your projects and learn to work as part of a creative team.

We are proud to work with:

We are part of Screen Yorkshire’s Connected Campus initiative which works to forge closer links between TV and Film professionals, production companies, broadcasters and students. Through this initiative you will have access to a range of boot camps, masterclasses and special events, including visits to live sets and studios, industry workshops, visiting speakers and the opportunity to gain feedback on your work from industry professionals. The scheme is encouraged and supported by the broadcasters based in the region, including Channel 4, the BBC and ITV.

We are also members of Film Buddy UK who offer bespoke employability services to encourage, inspire and assist students directly into work experience placements and employment within the Film, Television & Creative Media Industries. UCL Creative Arts students have free registration with the company throughout their studies and have access to live Q and As with some of the world's leading specialists, mentoring support, access to work experience opportunities and FB-1, an online catalogue of interviews and podcasts with specialists from the screen industries.

How to Apply

How to Apply:

  1. Register for an Account: Click the link below and use the "Create a New User" facility to register for an application account. An email will be sent to the address you provide, with a verification link.
  2. Verify Your Email: Click the verification link in the email to confirm your account.
  3. Complete Your Application: Once your account is created, you can start your application. You can save your progress and return to it later if needed. Your username will be the email address you used to register.

To access your account again and complete your application, use the second link provided in your verification email.

Apply Now: Direct Application Form

Need Help? For further information, please email admissions@ucleeds.ac.uk 

Please note, if you apply directly, we are required to submit a Record of Prior Acceptance (RPA) application to UCAS on your behalf if your application is successful and you enrol.

If you would like to apply for to study full time, please do so via UCAS.

The institution code for University Centre Leeds is L21.

The application fee for applying through UCAS is £28.50, unless you are eligible for Free School Meals (FSM).

Apply via UCAS

Course Information

Our modules focus on skills development and may include:

Year 1

  • Fundamental Techniques for the Inclusive Artist – This module introduces students to the fundamental practical techniques necessary for the  professional hair and makeup artist. This module is designed to build knowledge and understanding of skills in order to build students’ confidence in working with diverse clients and models as well as developing their practical and creative skills. 
  • Character Design and Application – This module will introduce the skills required to design and create character makeup suitable for lens-based media. The module encourages a creative approach and practical understanding of the process of make-up design with special effects for fashion and editorial and prosthetics sectors.
  • Creative Professional – To be successful in the industry creatives need to constantly refine and develop their work, network with other practitioners and keep abreast of current trends and working practices. During this module, students will look inwards and produce a personal development plan, which will be referred to and updated throughout the programme.
  • Creative Hair and makeup – The purpose of this module is to introduce students to creative hair and make-up design techniques. This will allow students to develop an understanding of the processes of constructing and exhibiting artistic hairstyles and make-up effects that are appropriate to the context; whilst understanding the relationship and necessity of applying both hair and make-up skills to create a comprehensive look. 
  • Historical influences in Hair and Makeup – This module will develop students’ research and independent study skills to form critical analysis and interpretation of historical periods through the perspective of hair and make-up.  

Year 2

  • Prosthetics Makeup for Film and TV – The purpose of this module is to introduce the techniques and processes for the making and application of prosthetic led characterisation. This includes gaining confidence and independence with industry led, current skills and processes of life casting, flat moulding, colouring and application specifically for Film and TV productions. 
  • Creative Postiche –This module introduces students to facial postiche making to meet the requirements of a set client brief within a chosen context. Students will develop an appreciation of the essential skills needed to construct and dress facial hair pieces using complex techniques creatively. 
  • Working in the Makeup Industry – Throughout a series of taught sessions,  students will explore theories to inform industry practices within the relevant creative industries and their importance in relation to their chosen sector. Students will also develop an understanding of experiential learning through a series of guest workshops, thus providing a framework for which the student sets out the learning objectives to be met during a work-based opportunity.
  • Managing a Showcase Event – In this module students will be given the opportunity to propose and design a creative project displaying both portfolio work and live installation to an audience, building entrepreneurial skill and giving them an individual artistic presence.
  • Cutting for Continuity – This module aims to develop hairdressing skills that reflect and represent the multicultural backgrounds of actors when working as a makeup artist on set. The module has been designed to enable students to develop appropriate hair cutting, styling and barbering skills to meet the needs of the film and TV industry. 

All students are expected to undertake relevant work related learning experience as part of the programme of study.  The length or type of work experience is not prescribed. It is expected, in order to meet industry expectations, that students will be required to purchase a professional equipment kit.

Benefits of studying with us:

  • Train in a real life industry setting at Prime Television Studios
  • Creative and technical skills appropriate to your practice
  • Enhancement of employability and career prospects within the world of media makeup
  • Opportunity for networking, work experience and industry links
  • Engagement with guests specialists throughout the programme
  • Study within Leeds, a thriving local hub for the screen industries supported by initiatives to grow local talent
  • Critical thinking, study skills, academic writing and time management strategies
  • The opportunity to work collaboratively with other creative arts students on ideas and creative projects
  • Entrepreneurial and self promotion skills 
  • To gain experience working on live work-based projects
  • Free membership to Film Buddy UK
  • Part of Screen Yorkshire’s Connected Campus initiative

All assessments reflect current industry expectations and practices and will include:

  • Practical applications
  • Portfolio work
  • Vlogs
  • Showcase exhibition
  • Pitch presentations
  • Research folders
  • Reflective logs

This course will be delivered from:

  • Quarry Hill Campus – Access to industry standard makeup studios, Mac suites, TV studio, lecture theatre, photography studio, drawing Tablets and alternative devices 
  • Prime Studios – Bespoke makeup training facility set in a working television studio
  • All students receive a Google Chromebook when they enrol onto the course that they keep throughout their studies and beyond

TYPICAL OFFER

UCAS Tariff Points: 32 UCAS tariff points from one A-level (or equivalent qualifications), in a relevant subject

A Levels: 2xD grades, one of which must be in a relevant subject.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma: MP, MPP grade in relevant subjects.

Access to HE Diploma: Overall pass with 60 credits, with 24 credits to be at a Merit grade in a relevant subject.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma: Pass in a relevant subject.

T Levels: Acceptable in a relevant subject.

IELTS: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any component.

International qualifications: International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria.

Mature applicants: University Centre Leeds welcomes applications from mature applicants who may not have met the academic criteria but can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and may be asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application.

*21 years and over at the start of the course

RPL claims: The course structure actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) or Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL).

Interviews / Audition: A successful interview and portfolio review are required.

References: An appropriate reference desirable. 

Applicants will be invited to a group information session followed by a 1-1 interview where they will present a practical portfolio of their work. This can include: Examples of makeup and hair designs and applications, sketchbook work and artwork/creative skills.

To support you with practical aspects of course, you will be given a professional makeup and hair kit which uses the highest quality and professional standard products from industry reputable brands.

To ensure that you obtain the best deal possible, for industry recognised professional branded quality products that will set you up in your future career, your kit will be ordered through the College.

As we recognise this is a lot of money to pay upfront at the start of your course, we have made arrangements for you to be able to apply for this cost to be added to your tuition fee loan from Student Finance England, which would mean that your loan would be for £9250 for Year 1 of the programme. If taking this option please note that your kit can only be issued to you once proof of your loan is received by the college.

Optional expenses may include:

  • £10 professional photoshoots at the end of practical assessments
  • Any additional resources individual to own projects
  • Approximately £30 Prosthetics Event Trip
  • £20 Hoodie
  • Trips or excursions including work experience opportunities

On completion of this programme progression opportunities include:

  • 1 yr BA (hons) Top-up
  • Retail management
  • Hair/ wig stylist for Film and TV
  • Special effects makeup artist
  • Prosthetic artist 
  • Makeup artist or wig specialist for performance environments
  • Content creator

For the latest version of the programme specifications for this course please click here.

For the latest version of the Leeds City College regulations please click here.

For the latest version of the course handbook for this course please click here.

For last years version of the course handbook for this course please click here.

Information for International Students

Applications are open for 2025 entry.

To apply directly to study at University Centre Leeds as an international applicant, please visit our 'How to apply' page and complete the steps

You can also apply through UCAS.

For more information please visit our 'How to apply' page.

Course fees for Undergraduates are £14,000 (GBP)

Scholarship available £3,000 (GBP) all courses.

For more information about fees and scholarships, please click here.

Please see our entry requirements page for additional requirements as an international student

International students will study 5 additional hours on top of the regular timetable.

  • 1 hour cultural studies
  • 2 hours academic study skills
  • 2 hours English studies

For more information about visa and immigration, please click here.

Go to International site

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