Degrees in makeup artistry will focus on applying makeup for fashion, theatrical, and special effects, and will also cover the process of using and applying prosthetics.įor fashion, theatrical, and special effects makeup artists, taking internships and apprenticeships in the field can be a great way to get your foot in the door and start gaining professional experience after college. While general theater or art degrees may be sufficient, you may be better served to find a bachelor’s degree program that caters to your career goals. While cosmetology school is a great place for general makeup artistry, you’ll likely need a more specialized degree to work as a fashion, theatrical, or special effects makeup artist. You’ll want to focus your studies on makeup application while in school.
Many states require makeup artists to be licensed to work in their field, and the process of becoming licensed requires completion of a cosmetology program at a trade or vocational school. If your goal is to do general makeup for weddings or other special events, you may need to earn a degree from a cosmetology school. The process of becoming a makeup artist depends substantially on the type of makeup artist you want to become. Others work for department stores, in salons or spas, for photographers, for magazines, for TV or film producers, or for theater troupes/organizations. Some makeup artists are self-employed and take on clients on a freelance basis. Special effects makeup artists specialize in applying transformative makeup and prosthetics for TV shows and movies.