BA (Hons) Prosthetics and Special Effects Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Prosthetics and Special Effects Design at Southampton Solent University is your gateway to a dynamic career in the creative industries, equipping you with the specialised skills demanded by film, television, and theatre. You will explore the intricate art of character and creature design, mastering techniques in sculpting, moulding, casting, and the sophisticated application of make-up and hair effects. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring designers who are passionate about bringing imaginative concepts to life, fostering both technical proficiency and a strong conceptual understanding of visual narratives and the styled body.

This full-time, on-campus degree, studied over three years, offers a hands-on learning experience. You will develop advanced industry-standard special effects make-up techniques, delve into digital design for characters, and explore visual culture through modules like Horror, Film and Media. The course culminates in a significant Creative Research Project and offers invaluable real-world experience through Work Based Learning, preparing you for roles in prosthetics, special effects, and broader creative economy professions upon graduation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education in prosthetics and special effects design, covering foundational design principles, professional application, and image construction. Students will explore character design, visual narratives, and cultural contexts in their first year, progressing to advanced topics such as extending the body, visual cultures, and professional practice in the creative economy. The curriculum also offers specialized optional modules in digital and speculative design, alongside a significant final year project and dissertation to culminate their studies.

1 Year one

Design Practice
Professional Application
Image Construction
Character Design
Visual Narratives
Culture and Context

2 Year two

Extending the Body
Visual Cultures
Horror, Film and Media
Deviant Narratives
Professional Practice for the Creative Economy

3 Optional modules

Digital Bodies
The SFX Morgue

4 Final year

Creative Research Project: Proposal
Work Based Learning
Dissertation
Creative Research Project: Development and Realisation

5 Optional modules

Speculative Design
Creature and Concept Design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,375.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAutomation & RoboticsEvent & Experiential MarketingFilm & Television ProductionLogistics & Warehouse ManagementMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementPhotojournalism & Visual MediaQuality Control & AssuranceSocial Media & Community ManagementSports & Athletics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Prosthetics and Special Effects Design at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Prosthetics and Special Effects Design at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, and no separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet English language requirements, such as a Duolingo overall score of 115 or IELTS overall score of 6.0. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and various score criteria for each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as prosthetic artists, special effects designers, make-up artists, character designers, or creature effects specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This dynamic course focuses on hands-on design for prosthetics and special effects. Key subjects include sculpting, moulding, casting, and the application of make-up effects.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Prosthetics and Special Effects Design course has intake months in January and September. Be sure to prepare your application in advance for your desired intake.
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