Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Makeup Course in Bournemouth

Cost£2,583.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Make Up Course in Bournemouth. Classes run at Bournemouth and Poole College Bournemouth Campus, full-time during the day, over one year. You'll need a relevant Level 2 qualification in hair, make-up or beauty, plus a minimum of five GCSEs including English and Maths at grades 9 to 4 (or Level 2 Functional Skills equivalents). The course covers theatrical, special effects and media make-up techniques for commercial settings, building on your existing skills in hair and beauty. Fees may be covered by the government if you don't already hold a full Level 3 qualification. Contact the college to find out what applies to you.

Who this course is for

This is most suitable for those therapists who would be more interested in a counter-commercial setting, rather than a Spa environment. You should have a creative flair with an interest in application to a suitable commercial setting. This course delivers a non-invasive aspect to Beauty Therapy and hair styling employment.

Entry requirements

Sucessful completion of industry related Level 2 qualification (in hair/make-up or beauty) and a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English and Maths grades 9-4 (formerly A*-C) or a Level 2 Functional Skill in English and Maths.

If you do not posess industry related qualifications, then you would need to study our L2 Beauty or L2 Hair Media Make up study program before embarking on this Level three program.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop advanced theatrical make-up techniques for stage and performance settings.
  • You'll practise special effects make-up, including prosthetics and character work.
  • You'll apply media make-up for television, film and photography contexts.
  • You'll develop hair styling skills suited to commercial media environments.
  • You'll learn how to work with clients and adapt looks to brief and setting.
  • You'll build knowledge of products, tools and techniques used in professional make-up artistry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at the college, combining practical hands-on work with underpinning knowledge. Assessment is through practical demonstrations, portfolio work and written assignments. You'll build a portfolio of evidence showing your skills across theatrical, special effects and media make-up disciplines.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bournemouth and Poole College Bournemouth Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Make-up artist. Freelance or employed work in film, TV or theatre.
  • Special effects make-up artist. Creating prosthetics and character looks for production.
  • Media make-up artist. Working on shoots for television, advertising or photography.
  • Theatrical make-up artist. Supporting productions in theatre and live performance.
  • Hair and make-up stylist. Combined styling roles in commercial media settings.
  • Bridal and editorial make-up artist. High-end make-up for weddings and fashion.

What you could study next

A Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in Make-Up Artistry or Creative Arts can deepen your specialism. Some make-up artists go on to study prosthetics or special effects at degree level. If you want to teach, a Level 3 Award in Education and Training is a common next step. Industry experience alongside further study is the typical route into senior or lead artist roles.

Related courses at Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus

More courses near you