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Vocational & T Level

Theatrical, Special Effects & Hair & Media Make-up Diploma Level 3

Subject Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Start Date
September 2025
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
1 year
Level
Level 3

This course will interest students who would like to work within the creative hair and make-up industry. The purpose of this qualification is to develop your skills as a professional Hair and Make-up Artist. Hair and Media Make-up covers fantasy hair and make-up, special effects including casualty simulation, application of prosthetics, applying and maintaining facial hair and wigs and airbrush make-up for varying effects. 

Entry requirements

You must have achieved the Hair & Media Make-up Diploma Level 2. You should also have GCSE English and/or Maths at grade 4.

What will I study?

The subjects covered include the theory and practice of:

  • Apply Airbrush Make-up to the Face
  • Camouflage Make-up
  • Media Make-up
  • Fashion and Photographic Make-up
  • Style and Fit Postiche
  • Apply Prosthetic Pieces and Bald Caps
  • Design and Apply Face and Body Art
  • Fantasy Hair Design for Performers
  • Monitor and Maintain Health and Safety Practice in the Salon
  • Client Care and Communication in the Beauty-related Industry

Additional activities

  • Competition work
  • Work experience
  • Demonstrations from visiting speakers


Additional costs
All students are expected to purchase a practical kit and uniform, details of which will be provided during your advice and guidance discussion and induction.

Method of delivery

This course is predominantly a practical-based course. This means that the majority of your training will be delivered in a salon/workshop environment. You’ll be expected to complete theoretical knowledge through homework activities and directed learning, although some theory work will also be embedded into practical sessions. You will be required to complete tests and assignments as part of your study. You may be required to partake in online learning activities throughout the course, which are often led by employers and industry specialists.

Students are expected to wear a uniform and follow a strict dress code.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed whilst providing treatments in the salons/studio. You will be required to provide models for some of these assessments. Assignments and written tests will also be used to test theoretical knowledge and understanding.

Good course combinations

This is a full-time course. It is not possible to combine this course with other Vocational, T Level, Apprenticeship or A Level programmes.

Your next steps

Progression on to Level 4 or 5 or Foundation Degree.

Career possibilities include employment in the media make-up and hairdressing industries with opportunities for self-employment. Examples could include working in theatre, TV or film (although more experience at Levels 4, 5 and 6 are beneficial for film and television).

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