Free Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Makeup Course in Liverpool

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Make Up Course in Liverpool. Classes run full-time at The City of Liverpool College - Duke Street, five days a week during the day. The course runs for one year and covers 35 weeks of study. You'll develop professional skills in theatrical, special effects and media make up, working across hair, make up and special effects for theatre, film, fashion and photographic industries. Work experience is included to build your industry skills. Entry typically requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit or above. Contact the college if you're unsure whether you meet the entry requirements.

Who this course is for

At the City of Liverpool College, our programme enables you to develop your skills as a professional make-up artist working with performers to a high level of occupational ability, to enable you to provide hair and make-up services in the media, theatre, performing arts, fashion and photographic industries. It also provides a sound platform for further learning. We provide you with industry specialist opportunities to aid in the development of your career. As a training make-up artist you will exercise a variety of techniques in the following units; media, special effects and camouflage make-up, how to apply ready-made small prosthetic pieces and bald caps, monitor and maintain health and safety, client care and communication, style and fit a postiche and how to apply the complex skill of airbrush make-up. This course is fast paced, creative and delivered to a strict time scale. You will need to be highly motivated and be able to work positively as a member of a team and independently. You will also undertake some work experience to prepare you for industry. Full attendance is essential for a successful completion of the course. This is an advanced qualification and requires students to have some knowledge of hair and make-up, it is essential for applicants to have a level 2 make up qualification or equivalent. For our Level 2 qualification, please refer back to the hair and beauty section. This course is Advanced Learner Loan eligible, which can fully cover the course fee.

Entry requirements

Please vist: https://www.liv-coll.ac.uk/courses/Theatrical-Special-Effects-Hair-and-Make-Up-VTCT-Level-3-Diploma

What you will learn

  • You'll develop hair and make-up techniques for theatre, film and performing arts productions.
  • You'll practise special effects make-up, including prosthetics and injury simulation.
  • You'll learn to work with performers and production teams to meet creative briefs.
  • You'll build skills in fashion and photographic make-up styling.
  • You'll gain experience through industry placements and work experience opportunities.
  • You'll study professional standards and working practices used in the media and entertainment industries.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in the college's specialist facilities. Assessment is a mix of practical work, portfolio evidence and observation of your skills in action. You'll work on real briefs and industry-style projects throughout the year. Teaching is classroom-based and daytime, full-time across 35 weeks.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The City of Liverpool College - Duke Street will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Make-up artist. Work in theatre, film, TV or fashion.
  • Special effects make-up artist. Create prosthetics and effects for screen or stage.
  • Hair and make-up artist. Support performers across media and live productions.
  • Photographic make-up artist. Work with photographers on editorial or commercial shoots.
  • Bridal and fashion make-up artist. Work freelance or in salons on styling briefs.
  • Theatrical make-up artist. Work with touring or repertory theatre companies.

What you could study next

A Level 3 theatrical, special effects and media make up qualification opens routes into higher-level study.

  • A Level 4 or Level 5 Diploma in Make-Up Artistry or Prosthetics can deepen your specialism for film and TV work.
  • A Foundation Degree or BA in Make-Up Design for Screen and Stage is a natural next step if you want to move into design roles.
  • Short specialist courses in airbrush techniques, advanced prosthetics or wig-making can add specific skills employers look for.

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