Media & Writing courses

BA (Hons) - Special Effects Make-Up Design for TV, Film and Theatre (Subject to Validation)

UCAS Code : GRIMC G80 W452 BA/SEMUD

Duration: 3 years full-time study.
Attendance of classes may be between 9.00am and 9.00pm Monday to Friday.

This specialised honours degree aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, confidence and skills to actively pursue a career in film, television or theatre as a special effects make-up designer.
The programme develops character simulation, casualty depiction using both traditional and cutting-edge techniques, 2D and 3D visualisation, prosthetic techniques and creature design and applications for animatronics. Academic skills are also developed and students will look at the histories of media, the arts and special effects as well as the professional and industry aspects of the subject. It is ideal for those who have a background or strong interest in art and design, media subjects or hair & beauty wishing to pursue a theatrical, film or TV career. There will be opportunities to work with current special make-up effects practitioners and the course encourages students to be involved in live projects

Entry Requirements

Applicants must be 18 years of age and satisfy one of the following:
Hold a minimum of 180 credit points
National Diploma or similar in art, design, media, hair and beauty or related subject and have at least Grade C in GCSE English
Two A 'Level pass, plus three GCSE's at C or above.
Students with no traditional entry qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.
Entry is subject to interview and portfolio.
Applicants may be asked to complete a written assignment as part of the assessment process.

What you learn

Year 1
Media, Arts and Society
Character Simulation Techniques
Casualty Simulation Techniques
2D Visualisation
Contexts of Media Make-up Design
3D Visualisation
Anatomy and Physiology for Make-up Artists

Year 2
Creative Practitioner
Critical Approaches to Design in Media 1
Prosthetic Techniques
Professional Practice for Special Effects Make-up
Creature Design and Animatronics Applications
Critical Approaches to Design in Media 2

Year 3
Planning and Research Portfolio
Special Effects Preliminary Practical Study
Special Effects Final Written Study
Special Effects Final Major Practical Project
Special Effects Preliminary Written Study

What next?

Work in the industry or pursue post-graduate programmes.

How is the course assessed?

The majority of assessment is by coursework - the production of practical work along with supporting documentation, presentations and written reports. There is one timed examination. Extended essays are also required for some modules.

Which campus?

Nuns Corner.

Awarding body?