Quick facts
| Qualification type | City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Study times |
You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements |
Entry is by interview. This course requires the learners to hold a Level 2 Media Hair and Make-up certificate or equivalent. We also consider MUA's who are current and have experience in industry. Successful applicants will be required to have current or planned work experience within the industry. Every student is expected to hold a GCSE grade 4 in English and maths or higher. Current WSC students wishing to progress to level 2 or 3 programmes, must have excellent attendance and have raised their achievement levels in year to progress on to higher level courses. This expectation also applies to Maths and English courses. |
| Campus |
The Academy of Hair and Beauty, West Suffolk College Sixth Form campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
Working in the make-up industry attracts passionate, artistic and hardworking individuals. This is a demanding industry where maximum job satisfaction is guaranteed for the right person and teamwork, artistry and creative flair is part of each working day, bringing with it the responsibility and rewards that ensure an exciting and challenging career. If you are looking for a long-term, varied career that motivates and inspires your passion, then this is the course for you.
This is a one-year programme designed to develop the skills required for students who would like a career within the make-up industry, working on clients in fashion, media, photography and film. You will be able to experiment with make-up and hair in an innovative and creative way and learn a variety of highly skilled techniques allowing you to succeed in this demanding and competitive industry.
What you'll learn
Mandatory Units:
- Working in the film, TV and theatre industry
- Create historical hair and makeup looks
- Media make up creative hair design
- Fashion and photographic makeup
- The creation and presentation of a look book and industry portfolio
- Apply body art
- Camouflage makeup
Optional Units:
- The Evolution of Cosmetics and Retail
- Avant-garde hair and makeup
- Media make-up blogging
- Specialist bridal hair and makeup
Equipment required for the course
Upon enrolment to the course, learners will receive order forms for a hair and make-up kit, this kit will include all of the relevant tools and equipment required to complete the course, and to practice at home.
Learners are expected to look professional and well-presented and must attend practical lessons in professional attire consisting of a black top, black trousers or jeans (not to be ripped or faded) and black enclosed toe flat shoes or trainers.
Learners will need to consider additional costs for trips and visits arranged during the course. Enrichment activities will be offered throughout the year, including visits and talks from industry relevant hair and make-up artists.
You may also be asked to consider the cost of mandatory trips and events that will be paid for at the start of your course.
Work experience placements
Learners will be required to complete work experience within the industry to enrich their programme of study and gain employability skills.
Assessment
This course has an end point practical assessment, similar to a trade test, this covers practical skills and behaviours of the professional make-up artist. There will also be a written exam, this covers theory taught across all units of make-up artistry. You will be graded Pass/Merit/Distinction/Distinction*
Further study
Example careers
- Make-up Artist
- Make-up Designer
- Special Effects Artist
Days & times
Starting September 2025