BA (Hons) in Special Make-up Effects for Film and Television, University of Bolton

Bolton,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course focuses on developing the specialist skills needed for make-up, hair, and prosthetics in film and television. It prepares students for careers in special make-up effects by teaching traditional and modern techniques such as digital sculpting, face scanning, mouldmaking, and prosthetic application. The programme emphasizes practical, industry-relevant skills through workshops, live briefs, and collaboration with other creative disciplines like modelmaking and photography. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities that mirror professional industry environments. The course also incorporates contextual studies to deepen understanding of the industry and how to succeed within it. Graduates have gone on to work on notable projects such as Ackley Bridge, Coronation Street, Ant Man (2023), and Napoleon (2023). The course aims to equip students with a strong portfolio and the confidence to thrive in this demanding yet highly creative field.

Why this course is highly recommended

This programme is highly recommended because it offers industry-focused training with facilities that replicate professional environments. Students gain practical experience working on real briefs and portfolio projects, guided by experienced staff and industry guest speakers, including notable professionals like Neill Gorton and Nick Dudman. The close industry links and 'Industry Week' events give students opportunities to network and learn from top experts. The course’s emphasis on current techniques, combined with the exposure to both traditional and digital effects methods, makes it ideal for students aiming to succeed in a fast-evolving creative industry.

Specialisation

The course specialises in the field of special make-up effects specifically tailored for film and television. It covers a broad range of techniques including prosthetics, face and hair effects, digital design, mouldmaking, and collaborative effects like creature design and modelmaking. Students learn to combine traditional skills with digital technologies to meet current industry trends, ensuring they are well-prepared for roles across different areas of the industry, from on-set application to workshop-based effects creation.

Course fees

Application fees

16.84L

1st year tuition fees

16.84L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should have 104 UCAS points, coming from qualifications such as A-levels, BTECs, or T-levels, with any subjects acceptable at Level 3. A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics, is required. Prospective students must attend an interview and provide a portfolio showcasing effects-related or project-based work. For non-tariff qualifications, strong portfolios may be considered. International applicants need to meet specific English language requirements, such as IELTS 6.0 with no band below 5.5.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

100

Career prospects

Graduates can work in various roles within the film and TV industry, such as special effects artists in workshops, prosthetic and moulding specialists, and on-set make-up artists. They may also work independently or with production companies handling effects creation, prosthetic application, hair finishing, and makeup touches during filming. The qualification also opens pathways into related fields like medical prosthetics, wig-making, digital concepting, mannequin making for medical simulation, and education, depending on further experience or postgraduate study.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Applicants need 104 UCAS points from qualifications like A-levels, BTECs, or T-levels, along with five GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Mathematics. An interview and portfolio review are also part of the admission process.

Can I apply if English isn’t my first language?

Yes, the course requires an IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band or equivalent qualifications, and these must be uploaded during application.