Name: BA (Hons) Hair and Make-Up for Screen and Film | MetFilm School | Previously Screen and Film School
Author: Tom Picken

Overview

Throughout this course, working as part of a wider film crew, you will gain a clear understanding of the hair and make-up department’s role in productions of all sizes. You will start building a network of valuable contacts as you progress from education into your professional career.

The course will be delivered by experienced industry professionals who combine their teaching with current professional practice. Students will benefit from a range of optional specialist modules to cater for specific areas of interest, such as SFX make-up (special effects), period hair and make-up and prosthetics.

Furthermore, you will gain a firm grasp of the fundamentals of hair and make-up and understand the roles and relationships within the hair and make-up department. By year three, you can apply these creative skills to inform an in-depth personal design project and develop and produce a final live film in collaboration with fellow students.

You can progress directly to a career in the film industry, specifically in areas such as hair and makeup for feature films, television, corporate advertising, music video, fashion and the creative industries.

This course is offered through our partnership with BIMM University. UK students on this course may be eligible for the maximum Tuition Fee Loan amount, which covers the full tuition fee. Please check the Fees & Finance section for more information.

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Why Take the Course?

Practical: The BA (Hons) Hair and Makeup for Screen and Film degree offers a hands-on approach to learning, combining traditional hair styling and makeup techniques with contemporary practices in a dynamic film school environment. Throughout your studies, you will work on live film projects and dedicated studio sessions, collaborating with peers from other film-related disciplines such as Filmmaking, Film Business, and Production Design. This collaboration ensures you gain real-world experience and build a network that will support your transition into the industry.
Comprehensive: This course provides a thorough education in hair and makeup artistry, preparing you for a successful career in film, television, and related industries. The curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry professionals to ensure you acquire a diverse range of relevant skills. From basic hair styling and makeup application in your first year to more advanced techniques such as special effects makeup, wig making, and prosthetic design in later years, this course covers all aspects of hair and makeup for screen and film.
Industry-facing: Learn directly from educators and industry specialists who bring their professional experience into the classroom. The course maintains strong ties with the industry, ensuring that your education is not only current but also aligned with professional standards. Regular guest lectures and workshops with professional hair and makeup artists provide you with insights into the industry and help you stay updated on the latest trends and techniques. Additionally, our dedicated industry team assists in securing work placements, enhancing your employability upon graduation.
Real-life Experience: Throughout the course, you will engage in a range of speculative and live film projects, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world scenarios. By the time you reach your final year, you will focus on your chosen speciality, whether it’s key hair styling, special effects makeup, or wig making. Your work will culminate in a personal studio-based project and live work on graduate films. This experience, along with the portfolio you develop, will position you strongly for entering the industry.

*For a selection of the tutors who teach across our campuses, please see Our People.

Awarding body: BIMM University

Programme Aims

Develop a strong foundation in hair and makeup artistry, covering essential techniques and exploring various industry roles.

Deepen skills and specialise through advanced modules tailored to specific career goals in hair, makeup, and special effects.

Master advanced skills and achieve professional standards through bespoke projects and live film productions, culminating in a graduate film showcase.

Ensure a smooth transition to the industry with personalised support, small class sizes, industry placements, and post-graduation job assistance.

Module Overview

In the first year, students are introduced to the foundational skills necessary for working in hair and make-up within the screen and film industry. Modules cover key areas such as basic techniques in hairstyling and make-up application, an introduction to special effects (SFX), and essential industry practices. Students also begin learning about the collaborative nature of film production, focusing on teamwork, scheduling, and understanding continuity within a production.

The second year builds on the foundational skills with more advanced techniques in SFX, hairstyling, and make-up artistry. Modules include more specialised areas such as creating character looks for film genres and deepening the understanding of continuity and logistics in a professional setting. Students engage in collaborative projects that mimic real-world film production, enhancing their practical skills and industry readiness. They also begin to explore their creative identity within the broader context of the creative industries.

In the final year, students focus on honing their craft through independent and collaborative projects, including the creation of a portfolio that showcases their skills. This year emphasises professional development, preparing students for careers in the industry. Modules include advanced techniques in SFX, hairstyling, and make-up, along with leadership and project management skills. Students are encouraged to explore their personal style and identity as they prepare for the transition into the professional world.

This course offers a blend of technical training, creative exploration, and industry-relevant experience, making it a comprehensive program for aspiring hair and make-up artists in the screen and film industry.

We include a diverse range of teaching methods which include:

Productions
Seminar-style Group Teaching
Tutorials
Practical Group Work
Formative Feedback through Critiques, Pitches, Screenings, and Reflective Sessions
Work-integrated Learning
Authentic Assessment

We use a wide range of assessment which include portfolios, performances, research, presentations, and reflective work.

Entry Requirements

UCAS Tariff: 64 points
A-Level: CC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: MPP
GCSE: Three GCSEs at a minimum grade C/4, including English Language or Level 2 Equivalents
IELTS: 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 to be achieved in each band

UK applicants need to apply through UCAS using codes:

Course code: W452
Institution code: B39 (BIMM University)
Campus name: MetFilm School Brighton (Campus Code is 5)

Applicants may also provide an equivalent Level 3 qualification such as a Baccalaureate or International Baccalaureate.

For more information, please check Equipment in the Study with Us section for your chosen course, and the Location sections for the range of Equipment and Learning Resources available on each of our campuses.

For more information on BA (Hons) Hair and Make-Up for Screen & Film entry requirements, language requirements, funding, and the application process please visit:

Study with Us

Dates & Prices

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15 September 2025 - 19 May 2028

£9,535 (per year) – UK Students

£9,535 (per year)** – EU/EEA Students

£15,950 (per year)*** – International Students

Apply via UCAS

**EU/EEA students with settled status.

***International students or EU/EEA students without settled status.

International students who require a VISA to study in the UK are also welcome to apply for this course directly through our website. Applicants must meet the requirements set by UKVI.