BDes (Hons) Special Make-up Effects for Film and TV

Program Overview

The BDes (Hons) Special Make-up Effects for Film and TV program at the University of Greater Manchester provides a highly specialized undergraduate education focused on the art and craft of creating make-up effects for the entertainment industry. The program aims to equip students with the diverse skills needed to transform performers into a wide range of characters and creatures for film, television, and related media. It combines traditional make-up artistry with advanced prosthetic techniques and digital integration.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BDes (Hons) Special Make-up Effects for Film and TV program is intensely practical and hands-on. Core modules typically cover prosthetic design and fabrication (sculpting, molding, casting in various materials), application and blending techniques, character make-up (beauty, period, fantasy), hair and wig styling and application, casualty simulation (wounds, injuries, aging), creature design and creation, on-set procedures, health and safety, and portfolio development. The program emphasizes project-based learning, allowing students to develop their skills through the creation of increasingly complex make-up effects. Digital design and fabrication techniques may also be introduced.

Research Focus: While primarily a practice-based undergraduate program, the BDes (Hons) Special Make-up Effects for Film and TV program encourages students to engage with research into materials science, historical and contemporary make-up effects techniques, and the evolving technologies within the industry. Faculty members may have research interests in areas such as advanced prosthetic materials, digital sculpting and 3D printing for prosthetics, and the integration of make-up effects with visual effects. Students are expected to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills through research-informed projects and the exploration of innovative techniques.

Industry Engagement: The University of Greater Manchester recognizes the vital importance of strong links with the special make-up effects industry for this program. Industry engagement is a significant component, often including guest lectures and workshops led by leading make-up effects artists and designers working in film and television. The program may facilitate opportunities for internships or work placements with make-up effects studios, providing invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities. Industry professionals often contribute to the curriculum and provide feedback on student work, ensuring its relevance to current industry standards.

Global Perspective: The film and television industries are global, with international productions and collaborations being commonplace in special make-up effects. The BDes (Hons) Special Make-up Effects for Film and TV program often incorporates a global perspective by examining international make-up effects techniques, showcasing the work of artists and studios from around the world, and discussing the logistical and creative considerations of working on international productions. The program may also attract a diverse student body, fostering a global learning environment and exposing students to different artistic and technical approaches within the global make-up effects community.