Film Makeup Masters
Transform imagination into reality.
Learn the art of film makeup and become set-ready.
NIC’s Film Makeup Masters program immerses you in the world of professional makeup for TV, film, and media.
With over 700 hours of special effects training, including airbrushing, wounds, silicon, gelatin and foam latex prosthetics, you’ll gain the skills to create industry-ready characters and bring stories to life on screen.
Program Overview
NIC’s Film Makeup Masters Program is an advanced training pathway designed to take students from foundational makeup techniques to high-level prosthetics and Special Effects for film and television. The program is carefully structured to build technical skill, creative confidence, and industry readiness through progressive, hands-on learning.
With 720 hours dedicated to Special Effects, students receive in-depth instruction in prosthetics, character design, and professional FX techniques used in film and TV production. Throughout the program, students apply their skills through creative projects that mirror real industry workflows, allowing them to refine technique, problem-solving, and artistic execution.
Professional portfolio development is integrated across the program, with students collaborating on creative projects and with actors.
By the end of the program, graduates leave with advanced technical training, a strong portfolio, and the practical experience required to work confidently in professional film and television environments.
Key Outcomes
Become a professional film makeup artist
Develop technical skills from foundational makeup to advanced prosthetics, preparing you for work in TV, film, and theatre productions.
Master prosthetic and special effects makeup
Gain extensive hands-on experience creating 2D and 3D effects, foam latex characters, blood rigging, and realistic wounds.
Build a strong portfolio
Showcase your work through 47 projects and professional photoshoots, culminating in a student short film with IMDb credit.
Prepare for the industry
Learn on-set procedures and professional etiquette to transition seamlessly from the classroom to real-world productions.
Program Information
Program Costs
Application Fee
Domestic / International: $250.00
Tuition Fee
Domestic: $23,950.00
International: $29,950.00
Included in tuition fees: Film Makeup Masters Kit (valued at $6,000). Kit covers all required supplies for hands-on practical modules.
Not included in tuition fees: Basic school supplies are not included. Students should budget $500–$800 for additional products or materials.
All products, kits, and supplies are subject to change without prior notice at the company’s discretion.
Program Hours & Length
Program Hours: 1,000
Weeks: 50
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
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.