Bolton Graduates Create Hollywood Films

It takes a lot of ability to be a successful special effects make-up artist and even more to create impactful looks for the big screen. But where do these highly talented artists come from? You might just see the names of Bolton University graduates in the credits of some of the biggest releases and cult classics from the last few years.  

Our graduates have contributed their skills to create some of the biggest films and series of the last few years, like Black Widow, No Time to Die, Fast and Furious 9, Last Night in Soho, The French Despatch, The Jungle Book, Peaky Blinders, The Two Popes, Baby Driver, and The Midnight Sky. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Why not check out the complete list of Hollywood blockbusters, Netflix, and Amazon Prime shows here? 

There is no getting away from it; becoming a special effects make-up artist for film and TV is a sort-after role. Special effects make-up artists are in super high demand as the popularity of shows and movies that require their skills continues to grow. 

Luckily, the University of Bolton offers a course that will give you the skills, confidence, and experience you need to become a successful special effects make-up artist. Our BDes (Hons) Special Effects Make-Up for Film and TV course focuses on preparing students for a fulfilling career by creating exciting special effects looks for film and television. 

What is Special Effects Make-up for Film and TV? 

It's a good question, what's so special about special effects make-up? Special effects make-up uses prosthetics, waxes, hair, and other materials to create an illusion or change a person's appearance. It's used extensively in the film and television industry to help develop aliens, monsters, injuries, and much more. 

To succeed, special effects make-up artists must be highly skilled and experienced in many different areas. They need to understand anatomy and physiology well to create believable-looking injuries and wounds.  

They also need excellent sculpting skills so they can create custom-made prosthetics, as well as be able to apply make-up flawlessly. 

The University of Bolton's special effects make-up course covers these areas and more. You'll learn from experienced professionals who have worked on some of the biggest films and TV shows in recent years. 

The Aims of Special Effects Make-up Course at Bolton University 

The special effect make-up course aims to provide students with a stimulating programme of study that prepares them for a career in special effects make-up in film and television. The course also aims to develop a student's understanding of special effects make-up concepts and techniques and a broader knowledge of the special effects industry and practices. 

But more than aiming high, we strive for the stars. Our special effects make-up course will give you the skills and experience you need to become a successful special effects make-up artist.  

Read more about the programme here. 

Becoming the next Dick Smith or Ve Neill 

Do you have the passion and commitment it takes to become a special effects make-up artist? If so, the stimulating and supportive learning environment we provide at Bolton University could be the ideal place for you. 

Why Study at the University of Bolton? 

The University of Bolton is the perfect place to study special effects make-up for film and TV. We have a long-standing relationship with the special effects make-up industry; including our Visiting Professor of Special Effects, multi-award-winning artist/designer, and founder of the world-renowned Millennium FX company, Neill Gorton. This means that we offer our students unparalleled opportunities to gain experience and build their portfolios. 

Our course is one of the most comprehensive available. You'll cover everything from sculpting and mould-making to wig-making and airbrushing. By the end of all that learning, you'll have a detailed portfolio that will showcase your skills and help you stand out to potential employers. 

To get started on your journey with Bolton University, you’ll need a minimum 104 UCAS points. You should also have five GCSEs at grade C or above or grade 4 to 9 (or equivalent), including English language and mathematics You may be required to provide a portfolio of work or attend an interview. 

But more than that, you’ll need passion and commitment. We urge you to follow your dreams if considering a career in special effects make-up.  

If you're passionate and creative about make-up special effects and want a career in the industry, then the University of Bolton could be for you. With our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced teaching staff, we are here to support your career ambitions.