For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression opportunities after college, rather than University. For those who want to broaden their Hair and Make-Up skill, without attending another three years in higher education, there is the option of short courses.
There are many in person options, whether they be schools such as; The Delamar Academy and The Iver Academy, or brand workshops, run directly by brands such as Kryolan and MAC. Many brands such as PLOUISE also offer online training.
These courses usually last between one and five days, however you can attend longer courses that may last up to six months. The online courses usually last between six months to one year, to ensure they work around your usual day-to-day life. Additionally, they are usually focused around one subject (like a shortened version of one University module, rather than a whole range of techniques).
Furthermore, these courses are usually taught by a mixture of past and present professionals in the industry, giving excellent networking opportunities, allowing you to create invaluable connections. These classes could be attended to learn new skills, build upon or specialize in chosen subjects, or refresh your memory and keep up to date with new products and techniques.
Although these courses are great, they can be expensive, therefore Hair and Make-Up artists will often have to work hard and save before being able to attend these schools.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression opportunities after college, rather than University.For those who don’t want to attend higher education, one potential option for progression is working as a Retail make-Up Artist.
Shops such as Boots, Super drug, and John Lewis, as well as direct brands like, Kryolan, MAC and Charlotte Tilbury, require beauty specialists in there stores in order to educate, apply and therefore hopefully sell products.
Working in retail allows make-up artists to attend regular training sessions, masterclasses, demonstrations and conventions in order to specialize in their brand’s products. You will be required to provide specialist information, such as suitable application methods, ingredients and complimentary products for an item, ensuring a client knows exactly what they are buying- and most importantly that they are happy with the purchase.
Many roles will require make-up artists to apply products and create full looks with one brand’s range, as a kind of ‘try before you buy’ scheme. Therefore, you must have excellent technical ability as well as great client communication and marketing skills to be successful in this role.
Although this work may be less practical, being employed guarantees a stable income, at an average salary of around £22,156 per annum. Furthermore, many companies offer huge benefit schemes – often giving free products and huge discounts.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression opportunities after University. Another route that one may choose to take after studying Make-Up, is working as a Make-Up artist for medical simulation. Although not widely spoken about, moulage is an essential part of medical training, as it helps prepare Emergency Service personnel for the harsh realities of incidents. Creating medical moulage on live models, or hyper realistic dummies is far more effective than the simulation ‘cpr dummies’ as real people can accompany the wound with realistic noises, and conversation – helping train personnel not only how to deal effectively with the wound, but how to effectively handle and communicate with the patient.
This Make-Up is used to create a large range of specialist effects, allowing for effective medical training which is delivered to huge organizations such as the military and emergency services. Usually, large scale disaster events are regularly held, which create a range of scenarios, including; mass casualty, enclosed spaces, restricted areas, travel incidents etc. These exercises are designed to teach personnel not only how to deal with casualties, but how to effectively communicate between different organizations. Each exercise is carefully designed to ensure it is equipping response teams with the tools they need to deal with current, imminent threats. When these threats change, so will the exercises.
Furthermore, working in this field could require you to create hyper realistic dummies to help train nurses, doctors and other hospital staff. These dummies may be used to teach personnel how to effectively operate, deliver a baby, or even perform an autopsy.
Although some organizations may require voluntary work, artists can usually be paid between £10 and £20 per hour, raking in an average of around £22,000 per year. This salary often depends highly on whether you are working freelance, or are contracted to an agency or organization, as well as the number of exercises you attend.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to options for progression after university. The term ‘Commercial’ is used to describe a Make-Up artist with a wide skill set. Although an artist may have chosen to specialize in a specific subject, they can still fall under the category if they are choosing to work on a wide range of projects – allowing them to use their full broad skill set. These artists may be found working in Film, TV, freelance, or even in a salon, however I have chosen to focus on the roles and responsibilities of a celebrity MUA.
A celebrity Make-Up artist is the perfect example for this role, as when working for celebrities, a Hair and Make-up Artist must have a broad set of skills, allowing them to achieve a flawless finish on any brief. Think about it, celebrities use make-up for all occasions; their everyday glam, red carpet glam, editorial work, brand advertisements, social media work, and even holidays like Halloween!
More often than not, Celebrities will hire one MUA consistently, and sometimes these artists will be required to live with or relatively close to their clients, guaranteeing their presence when needed as the client does not want to use anyone else. This is because for those in the public eye consistency is key, as trolls and tabloids will pick at any tiny fault or difference they can find. These Hair and Make-Up artists will usually carry a spare kit everywhere they go (or keep one in the car), to ensure they are always kitted out in case of an emergency – as you are essentially on a 24/7 call out. Usually, you will be required to work seven days a week, with a minimum of 40 hours work in total (however as just stated you are essentially on call 24/7).
Although this may sound easier than working in the Film or Fashion industries, these artists are required to work with demanding schedules. Just like in the film industry you may be required to travel for days, weeks or even months at a time if your client is on tour. Alternatively, like in Fashion, a Celebrity may have multiple events scheduled in one day, requiring multiple makeup changes.
However, as you are essentially with your client all the time, these artists usually form close friendships with their clients meaning the work may become much more relaxed.
Kim Kardashian, and her MUA Mario Dedivanovic – who are also best friends.
Pay hugely varies depending on the status of your client, however an average starting salary in this business is around £34,000 per year. Working in a this role means you are responsible for creating new, unique and trendy looks for your client – therefore a social media presence is necessary. An additional skill of working with technology and social media marketing is a good thing to have when working this role, as a strong focus on social media marketing and monitoring trends is required.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression options for after University. Working as a Hair and Make-Up Artist in the Fashion industry consists of a very demanding schedule, and requires artists to create high impact display work. These artists are responsible for creating dramatic looks for the runway as well as producing photographic work for social media, television, billboards, catalogs and magazines.
These looks range from natural glam to creative and bold looks, or elaborate prosthetics. Fashion Hair and Make-Up artists are responsible for designing looks that will help models stand out from a crowd, and look their best on the runway. Firstly, the MUA will work directly with a designer to create a look that is perfectly suited to their individual style, the show, and the fashion piece. Next, on show day they will complete this look, likely under strict time pressures, to help the model stand out from the crowd and grasp the attention of the audience.
Demanding schedules are usual in this field of the industry, a working day usually consists of strict time pressures as sometimes a model may have to walk multiple times in a show, meaning quick and effective Make-Up changes will have to be made. This role may also require workers to travel to locations for photo shoots or runway shows, however they will be required for a much shorter time than those working in the film industry (usually 1-7 days maximum). Furthermore, it is extremely important for those working in the fashion industry to keep up with current and future trends, a social media presence is extremely necessary to allow for this.
Usually, the average yearly wage for a Hair and Make-Up artist in the Fashion industry stays fairly low until you establish a name for yourself. However, the typical daily wage for a full day of editorial work is averaged between £170 and £320. Additionally a junior MUA may earn as little as £45 for a full 20 hour shoot day. Furthermore, high profile events such as London Fashion Week will pay more, averaging at around £275-£450 a day. Although these daily rates may seem high, once you consider paying tax, travel and for product usage, the final sum does not account too much until you become noticed. You can work in the Fashion industry either freelance, or contracted, however it is more common for Fashion MUA’s to work freelance.
Additionally, a portfolio is an extremely important tool when applying for work in fashion, and those wanting to work in this industry must be willing to work for really cheap, or even free on occasion, in order to have access to extremely high quality images for their portfolio. This will ensure their work is showcased in extremely great quality.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression options for after University. Working as part of the Hair and Make-Up team on a Film or TV Production entails many roles, including Script breakdowns and Make-Up design.
Working in this industry requires artists to work extremely long hours. On some sets, shooting days may last over 20 hours each day, or you may be required to shoot 7 days a week. Even on a 20 hour day, you don’t get much rest, as you must always be available for touch ups and adjustments where needed. Furthermore, you must stay behind after shooting to ensure all Hair and Make-Up is removed, for complex looks the removal process could take hours itself. For example, Jim Carey’s Make-Up for the Grinch took almost 8 hours to complete, and around 4 hours minimum to remove.
Furthermore, these demanding shooting schedules also often require Hair and make-Up Artists to travel and stay on location shoots, to different cities or counties… which may even include international travel – sometimes this may require you to be away from home for weeks, or even upwards of six months at a time.
The Hair and Make-Up team on a Film or TV Production is usually divided into five main roles, known as ;
The Key Make-up Artist – Responsible for the Hair and Make-Up department, the Key MUA works directly with a director to design looks suitable for all actors and actresses. They will then brief all MUA’s of the looks they need to create, and will be a messenger between the directors and the Hair and Make-Up department.
Make-Up Artist – The make-Up artist will be the person responsible for applying the key MUA’s designs on to actors and actresses. Occasionally, the Key MUA will Make-Up the main characters.
Make-Up Effects Artist – This person is responsible for designing, creating and applying specialist effects, using specialist techniques, tools and products such as; prosthetics, latex and animatronics, where needed. They may not be present on every film set, but are hired when a more Specialist Artists may be required to create the Directors desired effects. CGI may also sometimes be heavily used, meaning this role is not necessary.
Hair team – The people that make up this team are responsible for the care, setting and dressing of the hair. They may also have specialist workers in place to help with wigs, or cutting hair.
Assistants – Assistants are responsible for helping with minor tasks that require less experience, as well as keeping all areas clean and tidy at all times, finding products, laying out products and arranging and cleaning kits. Although this role does not include huge amounts of Hair or Make-Up application, this is a great starting point for those wanting to work their way up, as it provides valuable experience.
This role has an average starting salary of around £20,158 per year, however it is key to remember the bigger profile jobs are more likely to pay more than smaller scale projects. You could work in the industry as a freelance artist, meaning you could pick and choose your projects – also leaving you in charge of how much money you earn, or you could become employed by certain agencies or organizations, limiting your choices but potentially allowing you to work on larger scale projects, and guaranteeing an income – therefore potentially earning more money.
For this task I have been asked to research in to Universities that offer a course in my subject area. The BIMM University has recently opened a BA (Hons) Hair and Make-Up for Screen and Film, at their Film and Screen School campus at Brighton.
This course runs adjacently with film making and production design courses, providing students with opportunities to experience industry settings and build a wide and valuable network of contacts.
Entry requirements
Candidates for this course must have a minimum of 64 UCAS Points, which may include;
2 A levels at grade C or above, a BTEC Extended Diploma and grade MPP, a VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Hair or Make-Up – if an excellent portfolio is shown, an RSL Extended Diploma at a Merit grade, a UAL Extended Diploma with a Merit grade, a UAL Extended Diploma at a Pass grade, an International Baccalaureate with a minimum of 24 points, an Access to Higher Education Diploma at a Pass grade with at least 60 credits ( a minimum of 45 at Level 3 and 24 at merit or above), as well as at least three GCSE’s at grades 4-9, including English Language.
This university has a much lower UCAS tariff point requirements compared to similar universities, as their course is mostly practical based, meaning they are more interested in your practical abilities than your academic work.
Language requirements
For International students, an IELTS with a minimum of 6,0 points overall (with a 6.0 in writing and a 5.5 in all other elements) is required.
Study program
This course is taught over three academic years, each of which focusing on individual elements that are required for working in the Film and TV industry.
Year 1
Year 1 consists of eight units;
The Creative industries and you ; finding your path – This first unit helps to broaden your knowledge of your available opportunities, and hopefully helps you discover your ideal career path.
Design and Inspiration – Next, this unit will allow students to learn practical and theoretical design principles, exploring how to effectively visualize and develop skills.
Hair and Make-Up essentials – This unit teaches foundational and practical grounding methods, techniques and processes of Hair and make-up that will be essential for work within the Film and TV industry.
Short film 1 – In this unit students will apply all the skills they have newly developed, in order to gain a crucial understaining of how a working film set works.
Collab, logistics and continuity – This unit will allow students to explore the practicalities of the Make-Up department, such as ; Schedules, safety and budgeting.
SFX – Next, this unit will give students an introduction into design and technical skills that are required when creating a look, using convincing SFX techniques.
Context and culture of the Creative Industries – This unit will allow students to develop a deeper intellectual understanding of the Creative industries Structure. Here, you will begin to investigate cultural issues that surround your practice.
Short Film 2 – In the final unit of the first year, students will be required to combine all the skills they have developed through the past months, allowing them to utilize and further develop their skill in all areas of their work.
Year 2
During year two, there are five core modules, along with optional modules.
Creative Industry and You 2 – In the first unit of this year, students will begin to discover how their work can be used to affect the society around them.
Creativity, Identity and Agency – In this unit, students will continue the exploratory research work they started in their context and culture unit during the first year.
Short film 3 and 4 – In these units, students will be required to apply and develop their skills from year one, and the optional modules they have chosen in year two.
Period make-up 1 – In this unit, students will build upon their knowledge to gain an advanced insight into the historical accuracy of period make-up and hair looks.
Optional units are included in the second year of study. Students can choose two options from a range of specialist subjects, including; SFX and aging, Hair dressing, Barbering, Wig making and Postiche, Prosthetics, Design and Digital VFX, Conceptual Body painting and airbrushing, Realism and Naturalism in Make-Up and Hair, and Period Make-Up and hair.
Year 3
Year 3 consists of four core modules, as well as a further optional module.
Core modules
Creative Industries and you 3 – This unit is the final step in the progression journey, and helps students as they look to enter their chosen field as a qualified professional.
Final Major Project – In this unit, students are required to undertake a significant project of their own, allowing them to focus on, and explore their passion within the industry.
Hair and make-Up for Pre-Production – In this unit students must develop their FMP, perfecting the looks they are aiming to create.
Hair and make-Up Production realization – This unit is in place to advance a student’s design and development skills.
Optional Units – In the third year of study, students must choose one of the two optional modules from their second year to study further. This will then become the students’ area of expertise , as they have further specialized in this area.
Interview process
All applicants of this course will be required to create a portfolio to send to the university. Then, they must attend an applicant day, to partake in interviews, workshops, and meet their potential lecturers and class mates.
Open and closing dates
Screen and Film schools most recent opening dates were on the 10th and 25th of January. This university follows the UCAS deadline, with application closing dates on the 26th of January.
Fees and funding
For UK students, the tuition fees of this courses fall at £9250 per year, while the fees for international students come in at £15,950 per year. Rather than providing a kit, this university provides you with a list of essential products and equipment for you to buy, coming in at an average total of around £1200, additional products and tools will eventually need to be added.
Tuition fee loans are available through Student Finance England, a Government scheme, and must be repaid. These loans are non-income assessed, meaning your household income will not affect the amount you are eligible for, however you can choose the amount you take out. Furthermore, these loans are paid directly to your University to cover the fees of your course, meaning you don’t have to worry about direct debits each month. These loans may also be suitable for part time and EU students.
Maintenance loans are also given by Student Finance England, and are used to help pay for living and additional course costs. These costs may be used to pay for kits, uniforms, trips, stationary, rent, food etc. They are paid directly to your bank account in three installments through the year, and are means tested. This means your household income will affect the amount you are eligible for, for example;
Those living with their parents can receive a maximum of £8171 per year, whereas those living alone may be eligible for up to £9706 per year.
Bursaries are available through the government for those in need, but the university itself does not offer bursaries, grants or scholarships.
Location
Screen and Film School’s Brighton campus, is placed in a hub of the arts and creativity. Brighton boasts a large range of natural sights and urban architecture – making it the perfect place for filming locations and story inspiration. This means that this area is a great place to live for those in the film and TV industry, as it provides many work experience and networking opportunities. There are also many shops, restaurants, and bars. Brighton also hosts a diverse, inclusive and exciting nightlife scene, great for those who like a party.
Progression
This course may lead to many roles within the Film and TV industry, including; hair and Make-Up artist, Wig maker, SFX technician, Prosthetic designer, Photography, Production, Scouting, Editing, Marketing and more.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to Universities that offer courses in my subject area. Here, I have chosen to research the UAL; BA (Hons) in Hair and Make-Up for Fashion. As stated in the title, this degree is focused solely on make-up for fashion, therefore is the perfect option for those who know this is the path they want to take.
Students on this course will be encouraged to work closely alongside complementary courses such as photography, styling, production, fashion imaging and illustration. This helps to ensure students will develop a wide range of skills and understanding of similar disciplines, allowing them to become successful practitioners.
This course delivers a wide range of teaching, through technical workshops, masterclasses and classroom sessions, as well as 1-1 and group tutorials. They also encourage collaboration and work experience, often offering their students opportunities for internships and industry call outs. This course also focuses on cultural and historical writing, making sure all students understand issues that may occur in their field.
Entry requirements
For entry to this course, students must have one or a combination of the following accepted full level three qualifications;
A minimum of 112 UCAS points from two or more A levels (preferably Art, Design, Photography Fashion or Media based) – or a BTEC in a related subject). A Distinction Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, a Distinction/Merit/Merit grade in a BTEC Extended Diploma, a Merit grade from a UAl Extended Diploma, or an Access diploma with a minimum of 122 Ucas points. Additionally, students may have an equivalent EU or non-EU International Baccalaureate Diploma at 25 points. Students must also have at least three GCSEs at grades 4-9.
However, if a student does not meet these requirements, yet can show strengths in related academic work, through previous work experience, a strong personal statement, or an exceptional reference, then they may still be considered.
Language requirements
For students who’s first language is not English, an IELTS with a level 6.0 ( with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking) is required.
Selection Criteria
A careful selection criteria is followed to choose potential candidates for this course. A student must show a strong interest in Make-Up design, as well as enthusiasm for visual communication. Students must provide a strong personal statement and portfolio of previous work, allowing the university to get a taste of who they are and how they work. This will ensure they are picking candidates with potential to become incredible practitioners of their field.
Interview process
Students applying to this course are required to firstly submit an online portfolio through pebble pad. This portfolio must include a maximum of 30 images, including some of their best work. This should be presented to show evidence of technical ability, an understanding of balance, proportion and composition, as well as an understanding of visual communication principles, an exploration of creativity and a range of technical knowledge.
Once the university has received and reviewed a students portfolio, if they were successful in the selection process they will be invited to either an online or face to face interview. This will allow students to talk about their ideas and creative processes, allowing interviewers to get to know potential candidates better.
Study Program
This course runs over a total of 90 weeks in full time mode, and is divided into three stages, taught across three academic years.
A 20-credit unit is approximately equivalent to 200 hours of learning time, which includes a mixture of taught time, independent study and assessment.
Stage 1
During Stage 1, students are required to complete 120 credits at level 4, in order to progress onto stage 2. This stage consists of ;
Introduction to Make-Up and hair for Fashion (20 credits)
Fashion Process and Practice (40 credits)
Fashion Cultures and histories (20 credits)
Better Lives (20 credits)
Collab Practice ; Fashion Spreads (20 credits)
Stage 2
During stage 2, students are required to complete 120 credits, with a minimum of 100 at Level 5. This stage consists of;
Critical issues in Fashion research (20 credits)
Beauty in Moving Image (40 credits)
Artistry in Industry (40 credits)
Situating your practice; Media Placement / Situating your practice ; Fashioned Spaces (20 credits)
Stage 3
In this stage students are required to complete 120 credits at Level 6. This stage consists of;
Collaborative and Experimental Practice (20 credits)
Dissertation media (40 credits)
Personal and Professional Project (60 credits)
Students are all entitled to a tutorial package, consisting of one group tutorial – either group or 1-1, one tutorial per term for the duration of their study, and group tutorials as required. These sessions are designed to ensure all students are accessing the support they need, and are dealt with in an appropriate level of confidentiality.
Progression
This courses can lead to many roles within the Make-Up, Hair and Fashion industries. Recent graduates have become freelance hair and Make-Up artists, Assistants to established industry artists, and worked for huge global brands such as Bobbi Brown and MAC cosmetics.
Fees and Funding
The tuition fees for this course come in at £9250 a year for UK nationals, and £25,970 per year for International students. Additional costs for uniforms, kits and trips will also be necessary, but exact costs are not listed online.
Loans and Grants
Tuition fee loans are available through Student Finance England, a Government scheme, and must be repaid. These loans are non-income assessed, meaning your household income will not affect the amount you are eligible for, however you can choose the amount you take out. Furthermore, these loans are paid directly to your University to cover the fees of your course, meaning you don’t have to worry about direct debits each month. These loans may also be suitable for part time and EU students.
Maintenance loans are also given by Student Finance England, and are used to help pay for living and additional course costs. These costs may be used to pay for kits, uniforms, trips, stationary, rent, food etc. They are paid directly to your bank account in three installments through the year, and are means tested. This means your household income will affect the amount you are eligible for, for example;
Those living with their parents can receive a maximum of £8171 per year, whereas those living alone may be eligible for up to £9706 per year.
Full time BA, BSC or Integrated Masters course students may be eligible to a range of Grants depending on their personal circumstances, more information can be found on GOV.UK or Student Finance England.
Scholarships
The Scholarship-hardship fund may be available for students who are less fortunate, offering up to £5000 to help assist with the cost of living. Those with a household income less than £45,000, with caring responsibilities, care leavers, estranged students, those in significant debt, victims of fraud, or those who have experienced exceptional unexpected circumstances are among those that may be eligible to apply for this scheme.
Scholarships may be offered to those students that have progressed from prestigious schools or colleges, or those with exceptional grades.
Location
Although delivered by UAL, this course is taught at the London college of Fashion campuses, spread across seven sites between Stratford and Shepherds Bush. Located in central London this university allows for excellent work experience opportunities, as well as a huge variety of shops, eateries, pubs, clubs, bars, and tourist attractions. Living in the capital also allows for direct train lines all across the county, making travel easy.
Opening and Closing dates
Open days are held between September and December for undergraduate applicants, and between November and April for post graduate applicants. Open days then take place for undergraduate offer holders between March and May, before Exhibitions that are held between June and July. Their application closing date for 2023 is 25th of January , through UCAS.
For this task, I have been asked to research in to three Universities that offer courses in my area of study. The first University I researched is Solent University.
Solent University offers both ; BA (Hons) Make-Up and Hair design, and BA (Hons) Prosthetic and Special Effects Design. I have chosen to focus on their wider course, the BA (Hons) Make-Up and Hair Design.
Solent University was one of the first universities in the UK to offer a recognised degree in Make-up and Hair design, as well as being the first university to offer Professional Make-Up teams to industry – lead by current students and graduates. Solent teaches in high industry standard facilities, and are currently building their newest specialist studios.
Using a range of both professionals and academics to teach their courses, Solent ensures students will learn a wide range of skills, and create valuable connections while training. Furthermore, regular guest speakers from top brands, such as; Terry barber- the Director of Make-Up artistry for MAC cosmetics, further allows students to expand their skill and network. In addition to this, Solent offers excellent work experience opportunities, such as working for London fashion Week.
Students from Solent working back stage at London Fashion Week.
Furthermore, Solent offers a broad network across all creative courses, allowing students to collaborate with Prosthetic-design, photography, art, production and fashion students. They also offer trips to excellent fashionista locations (New York, Paris and Shanghai), allowing students to attend workshops, master classes, and tours from companies across the globe. Competitions play a big part in Solent’s scheme of teaching, as they believe competition work helps to grow students’ skills to a whole new level. Solent also provides its students with free access to specialist software, such as Adobe Photoshop.
GUNK Collective – A student lead magazine and digital publishing group that encourages collaboration with courses across the creative industry.
Qualifications/ experience
This course requires a minimum of 104-120 UCAS points. These may be acquired through a minimum of two completed A Levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma at a minimum final grade of MMM, a BTEC Diploma with a minimum final grade at D*D, a TLevel at a minimum final grade of a Pass (C+), or either an equivalent qualification, or a combination of qualifications that meet the minimum Tariff points.
Applicants over the age of 21 may be considered without the required points, based on their prior experience. Furthermore, those with exceptional previous experience or grades may be considered for direct entry into the second or third years of study.
Furthermore, direct entry to the second or third years may be considered for those who have studied a Foundation Degree, a DipHE, HNC, HND or modules of an Undergraduate Degree at another University.
You must have a collection of good quality work to create a portfolio that must be submitted online before an interview.
Language requirements
If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS with a minimum of 6.0 overall, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each individual component. Also, a TOEFL IBT with a minimum of 80 points, with a minimum of 20 in each individual component. Or a Duolingo Language test with a score of 115 overall, including a minimum of 95 points in each component. Or an equivalent score.
Study Program
Year 1
Within the first year of this course, you will study;
Design practice – In this unit you will explore design as a visual strategy for resolving problems and posing questions. This will help enable you to recognise yourself as an independent creative designer, and teach you to place your practice in a broader social and cultural context.
Professional application – Next, you will work closely with technical instructors who will introduce you to application skills and engage you in practical tasks. Here you will be introduced to make-up application skills, tools, skin care, and working correctly with the hair.
Image construction – Next, you will learn essential photography skills that will allow you to explore and apply image making techniques to your design. This helps to develop technical proficiency, including camera control, studio lighting techniques and post production methods.
Character design – Additionally, you will learn to create characters and conceptualize ideas for specific cinematic genres. This will help you learn the most appropriate characterization techniques to develop your interpretation of a character based on a literary book.
Visual narratives – In this unit you will be introduced to photographic and post production techniques, helping you to develop your own visual narrative in response to a challenging brief.
Culture and context – This brief will help enhance your ways of seeing, thinking and writing about key cultural developments, practices and movements relating to the history of design, visuals and pop culture, and the styled body since 1900’s to the present day.
Year 2
During year 2 you will cover the following units;
Editorial Beauty and Catwalk stories – In this unit you will begin to express ideas, involving writing, photography, post production, and technical skills in hair and makeup artistry, alongside trend driven techniques for hair and make-up design.
Character and Identity – Next, you will develop your skills in character design and contextualize them in different roles and situations. This will lead you to explore appropriate characterization skills and working methods, including ; SFX, Wigs, Wefting, and Airbrush techniques.
Visual Cultures – This unit will encourage the exploration of aspects of culture expressed through visual culture, discussing images from Art History, Film, Fashion and more.
Fashion, Film and Media – Next, this unit will introduce you to thinking like a filmmaker, and will require you to explore the history of fashion film and cinema, how to storyboard, different roles, processes and experimenting with different make-up and hair techniques.
Professional Practice for the Creative Economy – This unit will help you to understand industry expectations within the Creative Economy, as well as introduce you to tasks such as ideas, knowledge, skill, ability, and sizing opportunities to negotiate around any potential issues.
During this year, there are two optional units students may take. These are ;
The Make-Up Morgue – This unit enables you to understand how the structure of the theater industry works, as well as any related specialist techniques and terminology.
Radical Bodies – This unit introduces students to industry standard SFX techniques and products that may be used by professionals in work on Film and TV.
Year 3
During the third year students will learn;
Creature research project – This task will require you to learn how to effectively propose an idea. You will learn to devise, plan and discuss an independent creative project, and apply research skills to propose a major creative project and address an identified subject and/or design problems.
Work based learning – This unit will enable students to gain real world experience and an understanding of working in the creative economy. This helps equip students with all they need for the industry.
Creative research project – Development and realization – This unit will require you to produce a substantial body of conceptually and technically advanced work, addressing an identified issue or design problem that is relevant to your own creative interest and visual culture more broadly.
Dissertation – In this unit you will be required to create a written structure and production of a critical paper and presentation methods of viva voce presentation, allowing students to utilize their knowledge and analytical skill.
This year also includes optional units;
Speculative design – In this unit you will be required to question the purpose of design, and explore the development of speculative design through the network of creative artists.
Art Direction, Psychology, Image – This unit requires you to have a multi disciplinary approach, and develop your practice using media such as film, photography, set design in production, publications, and exhibitions of digital media.
Interview process
The interview process at Solent University requires you to firstly send a copy of your portfolio online. After the University has received and seen your portfolio they will invite you for an interview, where they will discuss your creative design choices, helping to give them an insight on how you work. This will allow them to get to know you, and your work better.
Open and closing days
Undergraduate Opening Days – Saturday April 15 (on campus), Saturday 22 April (Virtual).
Postgraduate Opening Days – Wednesday February 22 (virtual), Saturday April 15 (on campus).
Applicant taster day – Saturday March 18 (on campus), Saturday March 25 (virtual).
UCAS Deadline for applications – January 23
Course fees
For the 2022/2023 Academic year, tuition fees for students in the UK are £9250 per year. These fees fall at £15,000 per year for International students.
This course includes multiple other compulsory costs, including ; A Hair and Make-Up kit for the first year costing £1207, and a kit for optional unit one in year 2 costing £175, and a kit for optional two in year 2 costing £315.
There are further optional costs for trips that are dependent on current airfares and hotel prices. Currently, trips to Paris, Shanghai, and New York usually run, and cost around;
Paris £276, Shanghai £1130, New York £864.
Finance for UK Students
Tuition fee loans are available through Student Finance England, a Government scheme, and must be repaid. These loans are non-income assessed, meaning your household income will not affect the amount you are eligible for, however you can choose the amount you take out. Furthermore, these loans are paid directly to your University to cover the fees of your course, meaning you don’t have to worry about direct debits each month. These loans may also be suitable for part time and EU students.
Maintenance loans are also given by Student Finance England, and are used to help pay for living and additional course costs. These costs may be used to pay for kits, uniforms, trips, stationary, rent, food etc. They are paid directly to your bank account in three installments throughout the year, and are means tested. This means your household income will affect the amount you are eligible for, for example;
Those living with their parents can receive a maximum of £8171 per year, whereas those living alone may be eligible for up to £9706 per year.
Special support loans – These loans are available to those with underlying entitlements to benefits, such as single parents or those with a disability. It offers a maximum amount of £11064 for those living away from home, outside of London, and a smaller £9640 a year for those living at home with their parents/carers.
These loans are available through Student Finance England, and re-payments only start from a minimum of the April after you graduate, and only after you are earning over the repayment threshold (27,295 per year).
Bursaries
Solent University supports a large range of bursaries. These are non-repayable amounts of money given by the government to those in certain circumstances. For example;
Care leavers bursary – This bursary is given to support those living in supported accommodation or have been in local authoritative care. This bursary offers £1500 directly into students bank accounts, delivered in installments.
Carers bursary – This bursary is available for those who care for parents or immediate family members (including children). The duties of this individual must have been recognized by the local authorities. Students may receive up to £1200 per year, in multiple installments.
Estranged students bursary – This bursary is available to students who are identified as irreconcilably estranged, who may receive a maximum of £1500 per academic year, delivered in installments through the year.
External support grant – These grants are available for students studying specific subjects, such as Social Care, who are required to undertake a minimum of 200 days work experience. This is given to support these students as the amount of work experience they are required to undertake may make it difficult to find part time jobs alongside the course.
DSA – Disabled Students Allowance is offered to students with a recognised disability in order to help cover costs and expenses that may arise due to their disability. This bursary is not income assessed, and is paid either directly to a student’s bank account, or to a provider of specialist care, depending on individual needs.
Local Students Bursary – This is funded by the Solent Alumni and the donations from the Friends of Solent Foundation. This bursary can offer £1000 to a student, however you can only claim this once. Students must be enrolled on a full time undergraduate course and live in an SO or PO postcode, with a household income less than £25000 per year – therefore receiving the maximum amount of a maintenance loan.
Scholarships and Grants
Solent University offers a range of scholarships and grants, icluding;
Scholarships are essentially a reward given to students who have achieved greatness in academic or extracurricular tasks. These are awarded by tutors, and are usually awarded as a tuition fee reduction, rather than a sum of money. Generally, students are only able to receive one kind of grant or scholarship in a single academic year.
Undergraduate merit scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic ability. These funds are awarded automatically depending on results, and are categorized in to the following
These students must have met the maximum half of the minimum required UCAS points – 120.
There are other scholarships available, including;
Direct Entry Merit Scholarship (DAMS)
Postgraduate Taught Academic MS (PAMS)
International Academic Merit Scholarship (IAMS)
Sports Scholarship
Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Scholarships (BAME)
Silent Sanctuary Scholarship
Alumni Scholarships
Scholarships for MSC Applied AI Data Science.
Grants
Grants are non-repayable funds of money, granted by a university to support those in need, or at a disadvantage. Solent offers a range of grants to their students, including;
Support Grants – Given to those experiencing financial hardship, who are also enrolled on a course at Solent and are in receipt of full time student funding, are a full time UK post or undergraduate student, or a part time student studying at least 50% of a full time course, or 25% for disabled students, or are from the EU and in receipt of full time funding. This grant may be used to cover the cost of childcare, travel, tips, accommodation, equipment ; stationary/kit/uniform, household expenses, and tuition fees.
Summer support grant – These grants open during the summer break of each academic year, and are available to those who may not be able to work over the summer due to care responsibilities, dependents, disabilities or medical circumstances, or any other reason that may be deemed generally out of your control. These grants help to cover the cost of living over the summer break.
Course cost support grant – This grant is available to students with compulsory course costs, such as; hair and make-up kits, photography equipment, specialist software, uniforms, compulsory trips, professional memberships, body endorsements, exam fees, and final projects. General supplies such as books and stationary do not fall under this category. An extra contribution of £200 may be made for those receiving DSA payments.
Unpaid placement grant – This grant is available to those on a short term, unpaid work placement (for a minimum of 10 days/100 hours, and a max of 20 days).
Location
Solent University is based in Southampton, a city running for multiple recognition awards. With accommodation and campuses based in the heart of a cultural city, Southampton offers something for everyone, with city centers, parks, an electric nightlife, and a thriving art and music scene. West Quay houses one of the UK’s largest shopping centers, however Southampton’s placement on the water front also offers many smaller, independent eateries, stores. Bedford Place hosts an incredible collection of pubs and clubs, ensuring a center of eccentric nightlife for those who like to party. Furthermore, for sport fanatics Southampton is the home of Southampton FC, and Saint Mary’s Stadium, meaning it is regularly host to large scale sporting events.
On campus, Solent offers a student union, excellent fitness facilities, a student run cinema, leisure venues, cafes, and a range of places of worship.
Southampton is currently running for the 2025 city of Culture bid, and has already been recognised for its inclusive approach. Furthermore, Southampton has been named the third most affordable city to live in the UK.
Progression
This course can progress to many roles in the industry, including but not limited too; Make-Up designer, Content Creator, Social media marketing, Freelance work, Model scout, Hair stylist, Art production manager, Wig artist, Social media editor, Cosmetic development specialist, Film production, Brand management and Education.
Unlimited Movies. “19 Zombie Types in the Walking Dead | the Walking Dead Series (2021).” Www.youtube.com, 5 Feb. 2021, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuIkIQx2PKA. Accessed 3 Dec. 2022.
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Megan Hoff 