Film Makeup Masters Co-Op
Live, study, and gain experience in Canada
while mastering film makeup.
The Film Makeup Masters Co-Op program immerses international students in the world of film and television makeup.
You’ll learn fundamentals, prosthetic arts, and advanced special effects techniques, then put your skills into practice during a professional co-op work term. Build a portfolio, earn an IMDb credit, and gain first-hand industry experience in Vancouver.
Program Overview
NIC’s Film Makeup Masters Co-Op Program is a comprehensive, career-focused pathway that takes students from foundational makeup techniques to advanced prosthetics and Special Effects. The program is intentionally structured to build complexity over time, allowing students to develop confidence, precision, and creative control as their skills progress.
With over 720 hours dedicated to Special Effects, students receive in-depth training in prosthetics, character makeup, and industry-standard FX techniques. Hands-on learning is central to the experience, with students applying their skills through creative projects, professional portfolio development, and collaborative work with actors, photographers, and filmmakers.
The program culminates in real production experience, including work on a short film, followed by a Co-Op work term that enables international students to take their first step into Vancouver’s thriving TV and Film industry.
Graduates leave with advanced technical skills, a strong portfolio, and practical experience that prepares them for professional set environments.
Key Outcomes
Master professional film makeup
Learn makeup for film, television, and theatre, including character and continuity makeup.
Special Effects and Prosthetics
Develop advanced skills in prosthetic fabrication, foam latex, airbrushing, body painting, and realistic 2D/3D effects.
Portfolio & Industry Experience
Participate in professional photoshoots and a short film, creating a strong, industry-ready portfolio.
Launch your career in TV & Film
Gain hands-on experience through a co-op work term in Vancouver, becoming ready to work in productions and FX shops.
Program Information
Program Costs
Application Fee
International: $250.00
Tuition Fee
International: $33,950.00
Included in tuition fees: Includes Film Makeup Masters Kit (valued at $6,000).
Not included in tuition fees: Does not include basic school supplies (pens, pencils, highlighters, scissors, paper, USB drives, etc.). Students should budget $500–$800 for additional tools, props, or replenishing kit items.
All products, kits, and supplies are subject to change without prior notice at the company’s discretion.
Program Hours & Length
Program Hours: 2,000 (1,000 hours of study + 1,000 hours of Co-Op Work Term)
Weeks: 100
Start Dates
2026
March
May
September
October
Career Outcomes
• Freelance Special Effects Makeup Artist
• Makeup Artist in Film and Television
• Makeup FX Artist in Film and Television
• FX shop technician
• FX shop owner/ operator
Admission Requirements
- Applicants must be at least 19 years of age or hold a High School diploma.
- Submit a completed Student Application Form and Admissions Questionnaire (available in paper or online formats).
Language Proficiency Requirements
Please check the Language Proficiency Requirements on our How to Apply Page
Curriculum
MAKEUP FUNDAMENTALS • AIRBRUSHING & BODY MAKEUP • MAKEUP FOR STAGE & SET • SPECIAL MAKEUP EFFECTS FUNDAMENTALS • PROSTHETIC ARTS • FILM PROJECT • CAREER DEVELOPMENT • CO-OP WORK PORTION
The Film Makeup Masters curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on training from the fundamentals to advanced special effects.
Students gain a deep understanding of character design, prosthetic fabrication, airbrushing, and body painting, while developing the technical skills and creative confidence necessary to work professionally in film, TV, and theatre.
Each project reinforces practical knowledge, culminating in a student short film where students apply makeup and special effects in a professional production environment.
This program has been approved by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education & Future Skills.
NIC Makeup
Success Stories
NIC Makeup Faculty
Start Your Application
Let’s get you ready for an exciting journey, expanding your makeup skills, joining our creative community, and opening doors to the TV and film industry.
Click on the link below to apply and begin your story at NIC.