International Students - Diploma in Special Effects & Prosthetic Makeup Artistry Level 5

Course Content

Alternating between the Creature Shop and the Production Design workshop the skills you gain will give you an edge in the SFX workplace.

Creature Shop Module

Designed in consultation with Weta, the Creature Shop is an industrial SFX studio where you will master the skills of SFX makeup from inspiring tutors and produce a range of SFX creations.

Modules include:

• Initial SFX tools and techniques
• Scar-plating and sculpting
• Research, drawing and marquette sculpture
• Model-making and prosthetics creation
• Creature fabrication
• Creation of a life-size mask

Production Design Makeup Module

Beginning in the Production Design workshop you will progress from basic instruction in makeup, costume, props, hair and wig styling for stage, screen and photography to a class project of pre-production planning and experience as backstage crew on a professional production.

Modules include:

• Out of kit fantasy and horror makeup
• Character and period makeup
• Body art and photographic makeup
• Makeup for stage and screen
• Hairstyling for stage and screen
• Costume, wig styling, and props
• Working to a director’s concept
• Standby makeup for film and television
• On-set and theatre protocol.

Qualifications Awarded 

• New Zealand Diploma in Arts & Design Level 5

Career Opportunities

On graduation you may seek employment as a special effects makeup artist in film, television, theatre or advertising production industries. You will also be qualified for contract or freelance employment as a SFX production makeup artist and sculptor for TV, film, stage and screen productions.