MA Wigs, Hair and Make-up for Fashion and the Arts

Why study this subject?

Push the boundaries of hair and make-up design, using existing skills such as period hairdressing, fashion, SFX and film make-up, we will support and teach you how to extend your knowledge to create Avant Garde designs with a strong emphasis on design.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with traditional, new and innovative materials, exploring wig making, hair and make-up techniques as an art form. You’ll also explore sustainable and recyclable options to reduce the carbon footprint of the industry.

Everything you learn on this postgraduate course will be able to be applied to real-working life in the industry. Making you an employable graduate on completion of the course.

This course is designed for students with an undergraduate degree in hair and make-up or relevant experience working in Film/Television/Fashion Hair and Make-up Industries.

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Our history of delivery expert craft, art and design education for more than 130 years, means Buckinghamshire New University is the perfect place to start your creative career.

If you choose to study MA Wigs, Hair and Make-up for Fashion and the Arts, you'll have plenty of great opportunities to help you excel in your future career. At BNU we offer small classes across the board, meaning you gain a close-knit community and plenty of one-on-one contact and support with your tutor.

Throughout your time studying with us, you’ll be supported by our industry-experienced lecturers and tutors, who will be able to give you an insight into working-life. You’ll also have the chance to take part in a range of workshops delivered by sector guest speakers and industry-visits.

Split between our High Wycombe campus and BNU base at Pinewood Studios, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the skills and knowledge you need for your future, all whilst studying right in the heart of the famous creative hub.

And with London on our doorstep, you’ll be near the world’s best cultural centres, such as theatres, museums and galleries, where you can find a range of inspiration.

What facilities can I use?

On this course you’ll have access to a range of state-of-the-art facilities to help build your creative portfolio. Get hands on in our Hair and Make-up department at our High Wycombe campus and BNU teaching base at Pinewood.

You may also find yourself collaborating with students across a range of courses, such as Costume Design and Making and Film and TV Production. With these students you will be able to bring your ideas to life at our Red Shed and our TV and film studios.

As well as this you’ll also have access to our photography studios, where our specialist technicians can help you capture your creations and designs.

What will I study?

During your time studying this course you’ll cover a range of topics in detail, so that upon graduation your skills and knowledge are well-rounded, and you’re ready to step into the industry.

We will delve into the art of wig making, looking at traditional lace front wigs, wefts and cage work. You’ll learn how to work with a range of materials such as human hair, mohair, synthetic hair, recyclable materials and thermo plastics. You’ll also explore texture/body paint and art to create exciting hair and make-up creations which can be used across various media platforms.

You’ll learn specialist skills which are sought after in today’s ever-growing industry.

You will also benefit from our industry links and have days where you visit exhibitions and industry tradeshows. As well as the chance to take part in workshops, guest speaker event and networking opportunities.

How will I be taught and assessed?

The course is delivered with a strong emphasis on design and innovation, utilising traditional methods and modern techniques.

You’ll be taught on this course through practical demonstrations and workshop sessions, supported by professional lecturers and technicians. This will be accompanied by independent learning and practice.

Assessments will usually involve the completion of a practical assignment accompanied by a development portfolio and evaluative essay. Theoretical elements of the course will usually be completed through a research project/essay.

You’ll also gain a feel for what working in a fast-paced studio environment is like through our BNU Pinewood teaching base.

Placements Plus

BNU is a Placements Plus university. So, whatever degree you do, you can be sure there’ll be plenty of industry-relevant opportunities on offer, to help you get into your chosen field.

We’ll also prepare you for work beforehand, with special skills for work training, further boosting your CV, and building skills employers will value. In recognition of the value we place on these skills we have incorporated this experience into your study time.

Placements Plus is all about helping you get some valuable experience under your belt while you’re a student, to increase your choices later, and help you get the graduate-level job you want.