Course fee | £3500

Deposit | £700

Type | Full-Time Intensive Course

Time | 6 Weeks + Shoot day

The Complete Make-up Artistry Course

Beginner to Pro-Level

Next Dates: 6th October – 21st November 2025 (includes half term break)

Are you ready to become a professional makeup artist in just six weeks?
The IMA Photographic and Media Make-up Diploma is our most comprehensive and in demand qualification, designed for those who are serious about launching a career in fashion, media, TV and special effects makeup.

This fast track makeup course combines all of our leading modules into one immersive, practical programme.  Perfect for beginners through to aspiring pros looking for a degree alternative or an accelerated route into the industry.

What You'll Learn

Over 6 weeks, you’ll master the fundamentals and progress into advanced editorial, media and SFX makeup, along with professional hair styling techniques,  no prior experience required.

Weeks 1 & 2 – Beauty & Bridal Makeup

• Foundation makeup and skin analysis
• Colour theory, contouring and correction
• Classic and contemporary bridal looks
• Eyelash application and hygiene protocols

Week 3 – Creative Hair Styling for MUAs

• Styling techniques for bridal, catwalk and red carpet
• Hair prep, padding, plaits, setting and updos
• Editorial ponytails, vintage rolls and textured styles

Weeks 4 & 5 – Fashion, Editorial & Media Makeup

• High fashion and catwalk trends
• Monochrome and black & white techniques
• Airbrushing, body painting and avant garde design
• Drag makeup, period looks and cultural styles

Week 6 – Theatrical & Special Effects Makeup

• Ageing techniques, cuts, bruises and prosthetics
• Character design, fantasy looks and media realism
• Beard and moustache application
• Creative concept planning for your SFX photoshoot

Full Curriculum Day by Day

For a full breakdown or the course curriculum, please contact office@centralschoolofmakeup.co.uk

Build Your Portfolio

As part of the course, you’ll take part in two professional photoshoots with industry fashion photographer Garazi, working with agency signed models. These shoots will give you portfolio ready images to start promoting yourself as a freelance makeup artist right away.

Industry Pro Level

You’ll be trained by experienced professionals working across TV, editorial, fashion, film and SFX. All makeup products and materials are supplied, including luxury brands like MAC, Dior, Charlotte Tilbury, NARS and Pro-Only brands like Kryolan, Ben Nye, Make Up Forever, Graftoban, Danessa Myricks, Face Lace and more.

FAQs 

1. Do I need any prior experience to enrol?
No experience is needed! This course is suitable for complete beginners as well as those looking to upgrade their skills. We start with foundation level beauty and bridal training before progressing to more advanced techniques.

2. What qualification will I receive?
You will receive an internationally recognised IMA Photographic and Media Make-Up Diploma, accredited by the International Make-Up Association.

3. What is included in the course fee?
All premium makeup and hair products are provided during training, including MAC, NARS, Charlotte Tilbury, and Dior. Your course also includes two professional photoshoots, industry mentoring, and a lifelong IMA registration. Students need to bring their own makeup brushes and a camera (smartphone or DSLR).

4. What are the course hours?
The course runs Monday to Friday, 10:00am to 4:30pm, for six consecutive weeks (with a half term break included).

5. Will I get practical experience?
Yes! You’ll work on real models, create a full portfolio of images, and gain experience in editorial, media, and SFX makeup. We also offer opportunities for industry work placements and events.

6. Is there a payment plan available?
Yes, interest free payment options are available. To learn more or check eligibility, email info@centralschoolofmakeup.co.uk.

7. Where is the school based?
We’re located in the heart of Birmingham’s Creative Quarter, easily accessible by train and bus, and surrounded by affordable accommodation for out of town students.

8. Can international students apply?
Yes, international students are welcome. Please contact us in advance to discuss visa requirements and accommodation options.

9. What sets this course apart from others?
This is one of the few makeup diploma courses in the UK to combine beauty, fashion, SFX, and hair styling — plus portfolio photoshoots and live industry experience into a single, fast track programme.

 PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE:  ENQUIRIES TO INFO@CENTRALSCHOOLOFMAKEUP.CO.UK

Additional Information

You will be invoiced the remaining balance 14 days prior to your course start date, unless you opt for a payment plan.

Please ensure that you read the Terms & Conditions and complete the booking form prior to paying your deposit.

*During this course you will be invited to an exclusive MAC event whereby you will receive an elevated 35% Pro Discount whilst in store. Terms and Conditions apply.

**The course does not include hair cutting or colouring.

Course dates and Timetable

Day of week

Times

Start

Finish

Monday - Friday

10.00am - 5.00pm

06/10/25

21/11/25

Tutors

Becky Hunting

Stephen Manton 

Katy Bird

Laura Rachel

Nives Bradley

Astrid Kearney

Lisa Little 

Garazi

Ellie Hoccom

Laura Viale Durand

Career Opportunities

Fashion & Photographic Work (photoshoots)

TV, Film, Commercials & Music videos

Specialist Make-up Artists for Body Painting, Creative, Airbrush

Brand Pro-Teams/Training

Backstage Catwalk

Celebrity Artistry

Freelance Artistry

BridalEvent & Occasion Artistry

Cosmetic Companies

Training

Business owner

INCLUDED IN THE COURSE FEES:

IMA lifelong registration

Examination Fee

IMA assessment book

Comprehensive IMA course notes

Beauty hygiene pack

NOT INCLUDED IN THE COURSE BUT RECOMMENDED:

PPE Pack including a visor and disposables

Brush Set 

Colour Wheel 

Stainless Steel Pallet & Spatula

ISOCLEAN Brush Cleaner 

These are available to purchase from our store as a starter pack or individually in our shop.

Continue to Booking form