Make-up & Hair Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Make-up & Hair Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA) is crafted for aspiring artists ready to shape the visual narratives of fashion and media. You will delve into the dynamic world of creative identities, exploring the historical and contemporary significance of makeup and hair design through practical application and critical analysis. This programme is ideal for those who possess a keen eye for detail, a passion for artistic expression, and a desire to understand the cultural impact and business of beauty. You will develop a strong foundation in techniques ranging from body paint and airbrushing to digital design, preparing you for diverse industry roles.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over four years, including an integral professional practice year designed to immerse you in real-world industry environments. You will engage in hands-on projects, from creating imagery for publications and designing body-painted garments to developing virtual characters and participating in hackathons. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill development, research, and portfolio building, culminating in a significant final year project. You will graduate with a comprehensive portfolio, industry insights gained from placements and guest lectures, and the confidence to pursue careers as makeup artists, hair designers, or creative image specialists.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts degree in Make-up & Hair Design with Professional Practice Year equips students with essential skills for a career in the fashion industry. Across three years, you will explore creative publication, body paint, airbrushing, and special effects, alongside modules on cultural narratives, business, and professional practice. The curriculum emphasizes developing a reflective and critical artistic practice, preparing you for industry engagement through guest speakers, hackathons, and a dedicated professional practice year.

1 Year One

Guest Speakers’ Series
Creative Publication
Equality Diversity and Inclusion - Creative Identities
Body Paint and Airbrushing for Fashion
Hackathon
Cultural Narratives
Professional Practice
Business of Fashion
ATOM Activities
PLE Digital Outcomes

2 Year Two

Career Week
Innovative Motion
Reflective Practitioner
Elective - Special Effects for Fashion
Elective - Digital Extremes for Fashion
Dragon's Den
Expressing Identity
Engaging with Opportunities
Placement
ATOM Activities and PLE Digital Outcome

3 Professional Practice Year

4 Year Three

Project Pitch
Creative Partners
Critical Thinking Through Fashion
Graduate Career Fair
Your Artistic Practice

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,654.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,654.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,654.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,654.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 94,619.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 867.00 - USD 1,813.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on UCA Epsom Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationJournalism & ReportingMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMuseums & Cultural HeritageSustainable & Ethical FashionTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

L'Oréal

University of the Arts London

Why Study Make-up & Hair Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University for Creative Arts (UCA) 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 Make-up & Hair Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required, but part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For entry to this program, you need a TOEFL score of 80 overall, with specific minimum scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Alternatively, an IELTS score of 6.0 or a PTE score of 59 can also meet the language requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as make-up artists, hair stylists, cosmetic consultants, fashion stylists, and beauty therapists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on make-up and hair design specifically for the fashion industry, covering areas like editorial work and moving images. Students will also delve into the history of fashion and cosmetics while experimenting with various artistic techniques.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Make-up & Hair Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year course is September. Ensure to apply ahead to secure your place in this exciting program.
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