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If you want to transform your creativity into your career, applying to makeup school may be the perfect solution. In the first place, on-set production makeup artists can make a very lucrative living. Equally, many makeup artists are self-taught, and school isn’t a prerequisite for a successful career. Especially in this field where practice and networking are the most important. But, there are many makeup schools that can help you get to your goal faster. That’s why we compiled the top 75 makeup schools and courses that can give you a solid foundation. The rest is on you.
What You Will Get in Makeup School?
Of course, just being in the presence of makeup professionals and seeing them work is a great starting point. Not only do you get to see what the reality of makeup artists’ workdays looks like but also you will get introduced to the industry. This will help you figure out what you are most interested in, and pursue the right career. Therefore you will learn more than applying and blending techniques. And by the time you finish your course, you will have your makeup portfolio developed. In this list, we tried to encompass schools from all parts of the world. Moreover various types and programs for different needs, from 3-year Diploma programs to intensive crash courses of a few days.
After all, if you don’t find yourself an ideal school on this list(or near you), get inspired by their galleries and curriculum. Besides, you can always use it as a reference for finding the right school(or mentor) near you.
No matter what school you choose, you will need to continually work to become a stronger and more established artist. Without a doubt, you should surround yourself with people who are as passionate as you and you will always grow.
If you are looking to launch your career with a bang – take a look at these top 75 makeup schools around the world!
What is the Average Cost Of Going To A Makeup Artistry School?
The cost of attending a makeup artistry school can vary widely depending on factors such as the school’s reputation, location, duration of the program, and the depth of the curriculum. On average, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the potential costs:
- Certificate or Short Courses: Short courses or certificate programs that last a few weeks to a few months can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000.
- Diploma or Comprehensive Programs: Longer and more comprehensive programs, ranging from a few months to a year, can cost between $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Specialized and High-End Schools: Some renowned makeup artistry schools or those located in high-demand areas might have tuition fees in the range of $10,000 to $20,000 or even higher.
- Private Lessons and Workshops: Private makeup lessons or workshops with well-known makeup artists can also vary greatly in price, starting from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- Materials and Kit: Apart from tuition, you may need to budget for makeup kits and materials. This can cost a few hundred to a thousand dollars, depending on the quality and quantity of products required.
- Additional Costs: Don’t forget to account for other expenses such as textbooks, uniform or clothing requirements, transportation, and any accommodation costs if you’re attending a school away from home.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Makeup Artist?
The time it takes to become a makeup artist can vary widely based on factors such as the type of makeup artistry you want to specialize in, the level of education and training you pursue, and your individual career goals. Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:
- Short Courses or Workshops (1 day to a few weeks): If you’re interested in basic makeup techniques or specific skills, you can start with short courses or workshops.
- Certificate or Diploma Programs (3 months to 1 year): Many makeup schools offer certificate or diploma programs that provide comprehensive training. These programs can last anywhere from three months to a year. They cover a range of techniques and may include beauty, bridal, fashion, special effects, and more.
- Associate’s Degree (2 years): Some community colleges or vocational schools offer associate’s degree programs in cosmetology or esthetics, which can include makeup artistry training. These programs typically last around two years and cover a broader range of beauty-related topics.
- Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): While not as common, some universities offer bachelor’s degree programs in areas like makeup artistry, film and TV makeup, or theater makeup. These programs may take around four years to complete and provide a more in-depth education.
- Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Some makeup artists learn through hands-on experience by working as apprentices or assistants to established professionals.
- Self-Taught and Online Learning: If you’re learning makeup artistry on your own through online tutorials, books, and practice, the timeline can be flexible and self-paced.
Top 75 Makeup Schools Worldwide
Makeup Schools in North America
1Blanche Macdonald Centre – Vancouver, Canada
Description: Blanche Macdonald Centre offers a comprehensive makeup program covering various aspects of the industry, from TV and film to special effects. They have a 1-year makeup program suitable for international students.
Website: Blanche Macdonald Centre
2Vancouver Film School – Vancouver, Canada
Description: Vancouver Film School offers a one-year study program for aspiring makeup designers who wish to work on blockbuster productions. Their alumni are sought-after professionals in the industry, and they provide industry connections.
Website: Vancouver Film School
3CMU College of Makeup Art & Design – Toronto, Canada
Description: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design is committed to diversity and inclusivity in makeup education. They offer various courses for aspiring makeup artists.
Website: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design
4VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio – Vancouver, Canada
Description: Founded by Vanessa Mills, VMMA offers a range of makeup courses. Vanessa Mills is an experienced makeup artist known for her work with celebrities, runway, fashion, and editorial.
Website: VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio
5John Casablancas Institute – Vancouver, Canada
Description: John Casablancas Institute is a well-known makeup school offering training in various aspects of makeup artistry.
Website: John Casablancas Institute
6EI School of Professional Makeup – Los Angeles, California
Description: EI School of Professional Makeup offers a comprehensive one-year program covering various makeup techniques, including beauty, theatrical, high fashion, and more.
Website: EI School of Professional Makeup
7CMC Makeup School – Dallas, Texas
Description: CMC Makeup School offers a range of makeup courses, including basic and advanced options. They also focus on career and marketing education.
Website: CMC Makeup School
8Joe Blasco Makeup Center – Orlando, Florida
Description: Joe Blasco Makeup Center is a well-known name in the beauty industry, offering opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.
Website: Joe Blasco Makeup Center
9Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry – Lauderdale, Florida
Description: Cosmix School offers diploma programs and individual makeup classes, covering various makeup techniques and skills.
Website: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
10School of Glamology – Los Angeles, USA
Description: The School of Glamology empowers students to excel in the beauty industry, offering education in flawless makeup application and running a beauty business.
Website: School of Glamology
11L Makeup Institute – Las Vegas, USA
Description: L Makeup Institute provides dynamic makeup education to aspiring artists in Las Vegas.
Website: L Makeup Institute
12Studio Crush School of Makeup – Atlanta, Georgia
Description: Studio Crush School of Makeup in Atlanta offers a comprehensive curriculum guided by industry professionals.
Website: Studio Crush School of Makeup
13New York Makeup School – New York City, USA
Description: New York Makeup School offers education in makeup artistry in the vibrant city of New York.
Website: New York Makeup School
Christine Valmy International School of Esthetics – New York City, USA
14Blanche Macdonald Centre – Vancouver, Canada
Description: Blanche Macdonald Centre in Vancouver offers makeup courses covering a wide range of aspects in the industry. The one-year program prepares students for various roles including TV and Film professionals, bridal specialists, freelance makeup artists, or special effects masters.
Website: Blanche Macdonald Centre
16Makeup Designory (MUD) – New York, Los Angeles, and dozens of MUD Studios and Partner Schools around the globe
Description: Makeup Designory (MUD) offers a comprehensive curriculum with courses ranging from 3-6 weeks and programs lasting 12-24 weeks. Hands-on practical learning is emphasized, and students can find MUD Studios or Partner Schools worldwide.
Website: Makeup Designory (MUD)
Video: Makeup Designory (MUD) Video
17Vancouver Film School – Vancouver, Canada
Description: Vancouver Film School offers a one-year study program for aspiring makeup designers, providing industry connections and a strong foundation for a successful career in the film industry.
Website: Vancouver Film School
Video: Vancouver Film School Video
18The Art of Makeup School – Portland, USA
19Tom Savini’s Special Makeup Effects Program – Monessen, Pennsylvania
20EI School of Professional Makeup – Los Angeles, California
22Cinema Makeup School – Los Angeles, California
Website: Cinema Makeup School
Video: Cinema Makeup School Video
23Cinema Makeup School – Los Angeles, California
Description: Cinema Makeup School in LA is known for its prestigious instructors, including Ve Neil, a three-time Oscar Winner. The school offers diploma programs, individual makeup classes, workshops, and seminars. Special effects and digital FX classes are also available.
Website: Cinema Makeup School
24BOCA BEAUTY ACADEMY – Boca Raton and Parkland, Florida
Website: BOCA BEAUTY ACADEMY
Video: BOCA BEAUTY ACADEMY Video
25CMU College of Makeup Art & Design – Toronto, Canada
Description: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design is committed to diversity and inclusivity. The college aims to provide a welcoming environment for everyone, with a focus on actionable change and improvements for underrepresented groups.
Website: CMU College of Makeup Art & Design
26Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts – Burbank, California
Description: Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts offers efficient workshops that cover various aspects of makeup artistry. Certification is awarded upon completion of eight workshops.
Website: Westmore Academy of Cosmetic Arts
27Joe Blasco Makeup Center – Orlando, Florida
Description: Joe Blasco Makeup Center, founded by the renowned Joe Blasco, offers aspiring makeup artists the opportunity to learn from a well-known name in the beauty industry.
28Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry – Lauderdale, Florida
Description: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry in Lauderdale, Florida, offers comprehensive makeup courses covering a range of topics. Students can choose from various courses, including Airbrushing, Character Makeup, and Special FX Prosthetics Makeup.
Website: Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
29VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio – Vancouver, Canada
Description: VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio was founded by experienced makeup artist Vanessa Mills. Students have the opportunity to learn from someone with over a decade of professional makeup artistry experience.
Website: VMMA Makeup Artistry School & Studio
30Chic Studios Makeup School – New York, Los Angeles, Denver
Description: Chic Studios offers a range of courses from beginner to professional levels. The focus is on bridal beauty and business for beginners and fashion and runway makeup for advanced levels.
Website: Chic Studios Makeup School
31Bosso Beverly Hills Makeup Academy – Los Angeles, USA
Website: Bosso Beverly Hills Makeup Academy
32John Casablancas Institute – Vancouver, Canada
Website: John Casablancas Institute
33Fashion Institute of Technology – New York City, New York, or Online
Description: FIT’s Beauty Industry Essentials online program provides an in-depth introduction to critical aspects of the beauty and cosmetics industries. The program equips students with the tools and skills needed for a successful career in the beauty industry.
Website: Fashion Institute of Technology
Video: Fashion Institute of Technology Video
Makeup Schools in Europe
34Makeup Institute – Stockholm, Sweden & Online
Description: The Makeup Institute in Stockholm offers courses for both beginners and working makeup artists. They accept international students and even organize accommodation for non-locals. Upon course completion, students receive a portfolio with professional shots of their work, valuable for job interviews.
Website: Makeup Institute
Instagram: @makeupinstitute
35Dragan Vurdelja Makeup School – Belgrade, Serbia
Website: Dragan Vurdelja Makeup School
36Yarin Shahaf Beauty School – Tel Aviv, Israel
Description: Yarin Shahaf Beauty School in Tel Aviv offers a comprehensive exploration of makeup techniques and trends. Students gain technical mastery and a profound understanding of how makeup can reflect the vibrant cultural tapestry of Tel Aviv.
Website: Yarin Shahaf Beauty School
37London College of Fashion – BA (Hons) Hair, Make-up and Prosthetics for Performance – London, UK
Description: London College of Fashion’s makeup courses have produced graduates who worked on titles like Harry Potter and War Horse. The school’s well-established reputation and highly qualified instructors provide a variety of skills to students interested in design and performing arts.
Website: London College of Fashion
38The Makeup For Ever Academy – Paris
Description: The Makeup For Ever Academy in Paris offers a range of makeup techniques, blending timeless methods with the latest trends. Students are guided by top-notch instructors to develop skills and discover makeup’s powerful self-expression. The school’s location in Paris adds an extra layer of inspiration from the city’s art and culture.
Website: The Makeup For Ever Academy
39Delamar Academy – London, UK
Description: Delamar Academy in London specializes in film and TV makeup. Their program covers classic techniques to the latest trends, led by experienced professionals. Students gain hands-on training and insights into the entertainment industry.
Website: Delamar Academy
40Greasepaint Makeup Academy – London, UK
Description: Greasepaint Makeup Academy specializes in theatrical and media makeup. Their program covers basic techniques to advanced special effects and prosthetics. Experienced teachers help students bring characters to life.
Website: Greasepaint Makeup Academy
41Academy of Freelance Makeup – London, Paris, New York, Belfast, Dubai, and Online
Description: The Academy of Freelance Makeup (AOF) is renowned worldwide and offers various courses. Graduates have working opportunities in global cities, magazines, film festivals, and fashion weeks. AOF provides online training with personal mentors.
Website: Academy of Freelance Makeup
42The Makeup For Ever Academy – Paris, New York, Seoul, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Brussels, Helsinki, Nice, Singapore
Description: The Makeup For Ever Academy offers programs for beauty, fashion, film, stage, and artistic makeup. Graduates gain access to the Makeup Academy For Ever Tribe and work with Makeup Forever products.
Website: The Makeup For Ever Academy
43About FACE Academy – London, UK
Description: FACE Academy specializes in dermal procedures such as fillers, skin peels, and micro-needling. Students learn from professionals who run their own aesthetic and cosmetic clinics and have trained in London’s Harley Street with leading Doctors in the Aesthetics industry.
Website: About FACE Academy
44School of Make-up – Manchester, UK
Christine Blundell Make-up Academy – London, UK Description: Christine Blundell, an Oscar & BAFTA-winning makeup designer, offers an intensive 4-month hair & makeup course with a focus on film. Students get to work with Christine on set for valuable experience.
Instagram: @cbma_academy
45KLMA Makeup Academy – London, UK
University of the Arts London – London, UK Description: The BA Make-up and Hair program at UAL provides strong industry links, with opportunities for work experience at studios and theatres like The English National Opera and Pinewood Studios.
Video: UAL Makeup Program Video
46Pop Makeup Academy – Roma, Italy
Description: The Pop Makeup Academy in Rome offers professional makeup artist training to students of all levels. Originally established in Los Angeles, California, by Margaret Kimura, the academy provides makeup artists to some of the biggest Hollywood celebrities, ensuring courses that combine technology and creativity.
Website: Pop Makeup Academy
Video: Pop Makeup Academy Video
47Update Fashion Academy – Milano, Italy
Description: Update Fashion Academy’s “Master Beauty Consulting” course allows students to spend 6 months in Italy while learning about the beauty industry, fashion, cosmetics, and overall well-being.
Website: Update Fashion Academy
Video: Update Fashion Academy Video
48Atelier de Maquillage – Paris, France
Description: Atelier Maquillage Paris aims to inspire new makeup artists and raise awareness of simple and accessible beauty. They offer individual or group training courses, followed by certification, in their showroom in Paris.
Website: Atelier de Maquillage
49Hasso Von Hugo – Berlin, Germany
Description: Hasso Von Hugo’s school offers professional makeup training with instructors’ extensive experience in various areas. The program includes 1,512 supervised practice lessons over three years, making it a comprehensive learning experience.
Video: Hasso Von Hugo Video
50Stick Art Studio – Barcelona, Spain
Description: Stick Art Studio, one of Spain’s oldest artistic makeup academies, provides comprehensive training with highly reputed teachers. The training focuses on a global vision of the makeup profession. Video: Stick Art Studio Video
52The Make Up Studio – Dublin, Ireland
53The Jemma Kidd Makeup Academy – London, UK
54MKC Academy of Fashion, Beauty & Print – London, UK
55The London School of Beauty and Make-up – London, UK, and Mumbai, India
Description: The London School of Beauty and Make-up was founded by Mostyn Barnard, an industry veteran with over thirty years of experience. The school is dedicated to educating students in the makeup application and its related industries.
56Elite Makeup School – Madrid, Spain
Makeup Practice Face Board 3D Realistic Pad
Makeup Schools in Asia
57Toni Malt Makeup School – Dubai, UAE
Description: Toni Malt Makeup School, led by internationally recognized editorial makeup artist Toni Malt, offers master courses for aspiring editorial makeup artists. With her work featured in prestigious magazines, students can learn from a true expert.
Website: Toni Malt Makeup School
Instagram: @tonimaltacademy
58Makeup Atelier Paris Academy – Dubai, UAE
Description: The Makeup Atelier Paris Academy in Dubai blends Parisian elegance with Middle Eastern allure. The academy offers a curriculum that combines timeless techniques with contemporary trends, enabling students to master the craft with finesse.
Website: Makeup Atelier Paris Academy
59House of GlamDolls – Dubai, UAE
Description: The House of GlamDolls in Dubai promises to elevate skills and unleash creative potential. The academy offers a comprehensive toolkit, blending luxurious glamour with cutting-edge techniques to thrive in the competitive beauty industry.
Website: House of GlamDolls
60SMA Makeup Academy – Bangkok, Thailand
Description: SMA is a leading makeup school with locations in Bangkok, Delhi, Pune, and Yangon. They offer professional programs for future makeup artists, hairstylists, and beauticians, covering various aspects of the makeup industry.
Website: SMA Makeup Academy
Video: SMA Makeup Academy Video
61Bangkok Makeup School – Bangkok, Thailand
Description: The Bangkok Makeup School offers a captivating blend of traditional Thai aesthetics and cutting-edge makeup techniques. Students learn the art of makeup application while embracing Thai beauty heritage.
Website: Bangkok Makeup School
62SMA Makeup Academy – Delhi, India
Description: SMA Makeup Academy, with a location in Delhi, offers professional programs for makeup artists, hairstylists, and beauticians. They cover various aspects of the makeup industry with international top-notch makeup artists as instructors.
Website: SMA Makeup Academy
63Lakmé Academy – Mumbai, India
Description: Inspired by the iconic Lakmé brand, the academy offers a transformative platform for aspiring makeup artists to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Indian aesthetics. The curriculum embraces diverse techniques and cultural influences.
Website: Lakmé Academy
64Facebar Studio Makeup Academy – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Description: Facebar Studio Makeup Academy in Kuala Lumpur helps students become skilled makeup artists. The academy’s experienced teachers guide students through various makeup styles, from everyday to glamorous, with influences from Malaysia’s diverse culture.
Website: Facebar Studio Makeup Academy
65SMA Makeup Academy – Yangon, Myanmar
Makeup Schools in Australia
66Australian College of Makeup and Special Effects – Sydney, Australia
Description: The Australian College of Make-up and Special Effects (ACMUSE) has been providing industry training for 40 years. It aims to support the entertainment industry by producing expertly trained graduates suitable for immediate contracts in the industry.
Instagram: @acmuse_
67Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy – Sydney, Australia
Description: The Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy in Sydney offers a creative and innovative environment for beauty education. Founded by renowned makeup artist Napoleon Perdis, the academy provides aspiring makeup artists with the opportunity to learn from industry experts. The curriculum blends classic techniques with cutting-edge trends.
Website: Napoleon Perdis Makeup Academy
68Huxley School of Makeup – Gold Coast, Australia
Description: Huxley School of Makeup in Gold Coast, Australia, is recognized nationally and internationally with international accreditation. The school’s intense application process ensures that students share a passion for makeup and drive. In addition to makeup, hair styling, and special effects training, they offer online courses for flexible learning.
Makeup Schools in South America
69Escola Madre – São Paulo, Brazil
Description: Escola Madre in São Paulo, Brazil, offers a vibrant blend of Brazilian culture and cutting-edge beauty education. With a dynamic curriculum and expert faculty, the school empowers students to master makeup application techniques ranging from classic to avant-garde. Located in the heart of São Paulo, Escola Madre fosters a new generation of makeup artists who combine tradition and innovation in their craft.
Website: Escola Madre
Makeup Schools in Africa
70Face-to-Face Beauty & Makeup Design School – Johannesburg, South Africa
Description: Nestled in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa, Face-to-Face Beauty & Makeup Design School emerges as a nurturing haven for budding beauty enthusiasts. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, the school offers a transformative learning experience, equipping students with a diverse array of makeup techniques and industry insights. The dynamic curriculum, guided by seasoned professionals, not only hones technical skills but also cultivates a deep understanding of the ever-evolving beauty landscape. As students explore the art of makeup within the rich tapestry of South African culture, they gain the confidence to embark on their creative journeys, poised to leave an indelible mark on the global makeup scene.
Online Makeup Schools:
71Gorton Studio – Online
Description: Gorton Studio offers a world-renowned 7-week course that provides solid fundamentals in the prosthetics sphere. Neil Gorton’s graduates have worked on films like Maleficent, World War Z, and Hellboy 3. The studio offers standard, bespoke, and online courses. Website: Gorton Studio Video: Gorton Studio Video
72QC Makeup Academy – Online
Description: QC Makeup Academy offers an exceptional online platform for aspiring makeup artists, providing a comprehensive and flexible education that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. With a curriculum developed by industry experts, you’ll gain a deep understanding of makeup techniques, products, and trends, honing your skills through practical assignments and personalized feedback. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your existing knowledge, QC Makeup Academy equips you with the tools to excel in the dynamic world of beauty. As you progress through the program, you’ll build a portfolio of diverse looks that showcase your creativity and proficiency.
Website: QC Makeup Academy
73The Institute of Makeup Artistry – Online
Description: The Institute of Makeup Artistry offers an online makeup course that allows you to study at home. Regardless of your location or lifestyle, this course provides flexibility. The program includes 12 knowledge and skill-based assignments, along with 24+ hours of video content. Your personal tutor will provide feedback on your homework, video, and image submissions. The curriculum covers Bridal, Fashion, Film & TV, and Theater makeup. The instructor, Rachel Dal Santo, boasts experience in popular movie titles such as “The Matrix” and “Mao’s Last Dancer.”
Website: The Institute of Makeup Artistry
74Vizio Makeup Academy – Online
Description: Vizio Makeup Academy offers online makeup education options for individuals who can’t travel. The academy ensures quality makeup education through its online programs, catering to those eager to learn remotely.
Website: Vizio Makeup Academy
75Bombshell Beauty Academy – Online
Description: Bombshell Beauty Academy provides online courses in makeup, lash, brow, and beauty therapy training. Their online courses allow you to explore different aspects of the beauty world, making it convenient and accessible for those looking to learn from home.
Website: Bombshell Beauty Academy
Begin your transformative journey in the world of makeup artistry today!
In a world where beauty and self-expression have transcended conventional boundaries, makeup schools continue to serve as the creative hubs where aspiring artists shape their dreams. From the bustling streets of Hollywood to the vibrant neighborhoods of Dubai, these institutions foster not just the technical prowess of makeup artistry, but also a deep understanding of individuality and artistic vision.
As we celebrate the kaleidoscope of global cultures and aesthetics, these 75 makeup schools represent a testament to the power of makeup as a universal language of art, transformation, and empowerment. Whether you’re drawn to the enchanting lights of Los Angeles or the ancient charm of Athens, these schools stand ready to illuminate the path toward a world where every brushstroke tells a unique story, every shade embodies an emotion, and every artist finds their extraordinary voice in the realm of makeup artistry.
3 comments
School in mumbai
Studio Crush School of Makeup in Atlanta Georgia!!! A makeup school with a work while learning approach. It’s a portfolio building makeup school where students work on 8 fully styled photoshoots while learning the art and business of makeup.
Studio Crush School of Makeup in Atlanta Georgia!!! A makeup school with a work while learning approach. It’s a portfolio building makeup school where students work on 8 fully styled photoshoots while learning the art and business of makeup.