| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
This Level 3 Diploma in Media Make-up and Special Effects, accredited by UAL, provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge in various aspects of make-up and special effects for performance. Students engage in project-based learning and industry collaborations to prepare for careers in creative industries, further education, or direct employment in fields such as theatre, screen, and prosthetics. The program emphasizes responsibility, research, and creative problem-solving.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Level 3 Diploma in Media Make-up and Special Effects provides students with fundamental skills for progression to related employment, adding depth, sophistication, and synthesis. Students will develop research, analysis, and evaluation skills to develop creative solutions to complex problems. The program also focuses on developing responsibility for research, planning, time management, and actions necessary for progression to Higher Education or related work. The qualification gained is a University of the Arts London Diploma in Performing and Production Arts.
Outline:
The course structure provides a wide range of experience in key areas of the specialism. These include (but are not limited to): Design Work; Basic Introduction to Make-up Application and Removal; Hair Techniques; Make-up for Theatre Performance; Make-up for Screen Performance; Character Design; Wig Skills Exploration; Colour Techniques for Performance; Special Effects Techniques; Bald Cap Application; Maskmaking; Headdresses; Ageing for Theatre; Straight to Skin Techniques; Simple Prosthetics; Product Knowledge; Introduction to Period Make-up and Hair; Basic Hair Knowledge; Skin Types and Face Shapes; Health and Safety; and Cleansing Procedures and Skin Preparation.
Assessment:
The Level 3 Diploma is a practical, project-based, live-brief course supported by practical skills development and ongoing scrapbook assessment.
Careers:
Successful completion of the course at Diploma level allows progression to further study or direct entry into employment roles in the creative industries. The program includes work experience and enrichment opportunities embedded in the timetable to enhance CVs and provide industry-based experience. Links include (but are not limited to): The Royal Shakespeare Company, Bradford Council, Alhambra, Wigs up North, make-up designers, various freelancers, JT Studios, and TV and film industry links. A separate section mentions that artists in this field can expect to earn around £28,200/year or £15.52/hour with experience, with around 27 vacancies expected yearly in Yorkshire and the Humber. A Level 4 NVQ or Intermediate, DipHE, DipFE is usually needed for this job.
Other:
The course is a Level 3, School Leavers course, lasting two academic years, starting in September 2025, and is full-time, located in the Lister Building.
Bradford College is a major further and higher education institution in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, with a history dating back to 1832, when it was established as the Bradford Mechanics Institute. It serves around 25,000 students, offering a broad range of full-time and part-time courses at different levels, from introductory programs to postgraduate degrees.
Academic Offerings:
- Further Education: The college provides T-Levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships, equipping students with hands-on skills for employment.
- Higher Education: With one of the largest higher education provisions among further education colleges in England, Bradford College offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as professional courses.
- Flexible Learning: Courses are available in various formats, including academic, professional, and vocational pathways, ensuring accessibility for school leavers, adult learners, and working professionals.
Facilities & Industry Connections:
- The college operates across six campuses, each designed to support career-focused learning with modern facilities tailored to industry standards.
- It collaborates with employers and industry partners to ensure that programs meet workforce demands, helping students gain practical skills and real-world experience.
- Students benefit from work placements, apprenticeships, and career development services, enhancing their employability in competitive job markets.
Community & Student Support:
- Bradford College is committed to inclusive education, supporting a diverse student body with personalized guidance, financial aid, and career counseling.
- It offers programs for adults returning to education, providing opportunities for career advancement or skill development.
With a strong reputation in further and higher education, Bradford College continues to empower students by offering career-driven courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections.
