DIPLOMA OF SCREEN & MEDIA
(SPECIALIST MAKEUP SERVICES) CUA51020
Our innovative Diploma structure blends the best of both worlds, offering students an on-campus makeup training experience alongside flexible, self-paced online study.
Campuses: Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney
Duration: 6.5 months
Delivery Mode: Blended (On Campus + Online)
Structure: Practical Sundays, optional Monday demos, open campus Tuesdays, self-paced study midweek.
Start Date: June 1, 2025
STUDY NOW, PAY LATER
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans are a government-supported way to study now and pay later. If you're eligible, your tuition fees can be covered upfront and repaid gradually through the tax system once you're earning above the repayment threshold.
There’s a government loan fee, and the loan stays with you until it's repaid—just like HECS-HELP.
We’ll take care of the application process for you once we have the required documents—no confusing forms or paperwork to worry about.
ABOUT THE DIPLOMA
Our Nationally Recognised Diploma of Screen & Media (Specialist Makeup Services) is the ideal course for those ready to launch a career as a professional makeup artist.
Whether you're changing careers, chasing a creative passion, or continuing from our Certificate program—this Nationally Accredited Qualification gives you the skills, confidence and hands-on experience to succeed.
Our innovative Diploma offers a flexible, modern pathway for aspiring makeup artists. Enjoy hands-on Sunday practical sessions, optional Monday demos (live or livestreamed), and Tuesday open studio days to practise, build your business skills, and connect with trainers.
Follow a clear weekly study plan with self-paced learning during the week—always knowing what to work on and what to prepare.
Structured, supportive, and designed for real life.
FAQ's
How often do I need to attend classes?
Just one day per week—Sundays from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM on campus. Mondays optional.
Do I have to study during the week too?
Yes, you’ll complete some online lessons each week at your own pace before class.
What if I need extra help with the online work?
Join the optional Monday demo class in person or via livestream for extra support.
What if I miss a Sunday?
You’ll be supported to catch up, but regular attendance is important to stay on track.
Do I need to bring a model?
Yes, if possible. Bringing your own model each week helps you complete all weekly techniques.
Is this the same qualification as the full-time course?
Yes, you’ll graduate with the same nationally recognised Diploma of Screen & Media (Specialist Makeup) CUA51020.
What do I get in the kit?
You’ll receive a FREE Makeup Kit & Brush Set valued at $1,298, perfect for class and starting your pro kit.
Will I still get industry experience?
Yes, the course includes 100 hours of work experience through our Academy program.
WHY FUTURE MAKEUP ARTISTS CHOOSE US
I’m now an Assistant Manager at MAC Cosmetics!”
– Shannen Nicholls
I studied the Diploma of Specialist Makeup at the Melbourne campus. Since graduating, I’ve worked my way up to Assistant Manager at MAC Myer and I’m aiming for the Events Team or a Trainer role.
“I opened my own salon after working around the world.”
– Lauryn Plummer
After graduating in 2008, I worked on fashion festivals, editorials, and model shoots. I later studied hairdressing, won awards, worked overseas, and now I’ve opened my own salon.
“I’ve built a cruelty-free freelance makeup brand.”
– Charada
I specialise in vegan and cruelty-free makeup. My freelance career has led me to work with Australian and international conscious beauty brands.
“You’ll find me behind the scenes at Channel 7!”
– Kayla Elefsen
I work at Channel 7 Brisbane and run a freelance business. I’ve done makeup for shows like Married at First Sight, Sunrise, and live AFL games
“I was published in two international magazines within 5 months!”
– Charleigh Bennett
Since graduating, I’ve been featured in magazines and The Courier Mail, launched my own freelance business, and now work at Sephora Chermside.
WHY STUDY WITH US?
Our Academy has trained over 8,150 successful makeup artists across Australia—and now it’s more accessible than ever.
✔️ Learn in a flexible format that fits your lifestyle
✔️ Study your theory online, then apply it in class each Sunday
✔️ Maintain the same fast-tracked pace—graduate in just 6.5 months
✔️ Optional Monday demo day available on-campus or via livestream
✔️ Bring your own model on Sundays for the most hands-on experience
✔️ No airbrush kit required—trainers demonstrate techniques for you
✔️ Learn from passionate, industry-connected trainers
✔️ Access our 100-hour Work Experience Program
✔️ VET Student Loans available to eligible students
✔️ Gain a Nationally Recongised Qualification
DIPLOMA OF MAKEUP OVERVIEW
Our nationally recognised Diploma of Screen & Media (Specialist Makeup) is designed for aspiring makeup artists who want comprehensive, practical training—without sacrificing their work-life balance.
Delivered over approximately 6.5 months, this course combines weekly self-paced online study with one on Campus class each week, giving you the structure, support, and flexibility to build a creative career on your terms.
Optional trainer-led additional demonstration sessions are available in-person or via livestream for students who want extra guidance.
We have uniquely designed our Diploma course to include the most sought after topics that all Makeup Artists must learn. Our course has over 94, information-loaded classes on everything you must learn to become a successful Makeup Artist. This means that when you graduate from our college, you’ll be job-ready and confident to launch your career.
We’ve also collaborated with award winning Australian Makeup Artists to develop our curriculum, and implement a ground-breaking teaching method, that no other school is using. This method is unknown by many others, but it makes it super easy for our students to understand and learn much faster.
The Diploma of Screen & Media can lead you into so many Brilliant Careers, including:
- Special effects makeup artist
- Professional makeup artist
- Film, TV and stage makeup
- Retail makeup artist
- Salon/Spa makeup artist
- Sales representative for beauty brand
- Freelance makeup artist
- Bridal makeup artist
- Prosthetic artist
- Editorial makeup artist
- Face/body painter
- Social media influencer
- Educator
FEES AND START DATES
$16,221
Includes a FREE Starter Makeup Kit & Brush Set (valued at $1,298)
Flexible payment options are available:
- Upfront Payment (10% discount)
- VET Student Loan (available to eligible students)
- Interest-Free Payment Plan
- Scholarship opportunities (limited availability)
Not sure which option suits you best?
Contact our Course Advisor:
Call or text 0428 217 285
Email: courseadvisor@makeuptraining.com.au
START DATE CLICK HERE
2025 Intakes
Melbourne – 1st June 2025
Sydney – 1st June 2025
Brisbane – 1st June 2025
COURSE STRUCTURE
Teaching Method
This course includes approximately 94 lessons, delivered over 6.5 months via our flexible Sunday Studio Pathway:
Self-paced online: Each week, you’ll complete 3-4 guided lessons with videos, exercises and self-assessment questions.
On-campus Sundays: Join us weekly (9:30 AM – 4:30 PM) to complete practical training with the support of your trainer.
Optional Mondays: Attend trainer-led demos (same time) either on-site or streamed online to help you prepare for the week ahead.
Supportive Learning Environment
We recommend students bring their own models to Sunday classes to ensure they complete all looks efficiently.
CAREER PATHWAYS
Graduates of this course have gone on to work across:
Film & TV
Bridal
Fashion & Editorial
Theatre & Performing Arts
Special Effects & Body Art
Freelance & Brand Work
Retail & Product Companies
This course is ideal for both emerging artists and professionals looking to upskill. And with this flexible delivery model, you can study without giving up your weekday work or family commitments.
HOW TO ENROL
Ready to get started?
Apply online, or contact our team to discuss your goals and eligibility. Our Enrolments Team can also guide you through applying for a VET Student Loan (if eligible).
MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE
Class Days:
Practical Classes – Sundays (9:30 AM – 4:30 PM)
Optional Demos – Mondays (9:30 AM – 4:30 PM, in-person or livestreamed)
Duration: Approx. 6 months
Location: Melbourne, Brisbane or Sydney Campus
Delivery Mode: Sunday Studio Pathway (Flexible Weekly Structure)
Funding: VET Student Loans available for eligible students
ASQA
Our courses are approved and regulated by ASQA, the national authority for vocational education and training. This ensures your qualification meets all government standards.
RTO
We’re a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #21399), which means our training is nationally recognised and held to high quality standards. The Academy of Makeup has proudly been delivering accredited courses since 2002.
DIPLOMA UNITS OF COMPETENCY CUA51020 - Diploma of Screen and Media
CUA51020 - Diploma of Screen and Media
CUAIND412 – Provide freelance services
Learn how to promote yourself, manage finances, and plan for success as a freelance makeup artist.
CUAIND512 – Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge
Build your professionalism through research, industry insight, and creative collaboration.
CUAPPR411 – Realise a creative project
Design and deliver a personal creative makeup project from concept to completion.
CUAPPR515 – Establish and maintain safe creative practice
Understand key health and safety protocols to protect yourself and others in makeup environments.
CUAMUP411 – Design, apply and remove make-up
Master beauty makeup fundamentals, client consultation, and application techniques.
CUAMUP412 – Maintain make-up and hair continuity
Learn how to maintain consistent looks for film, TV, and performance settings.
CUAMUP413 – Style hair for productions
Create a variety of professional hairstyles using styling tools, products, and techniques.
CUAMUP512 – Design and apply specialised make-up
Apply advanced techniques for editorial, film, fashion, and live performance briefs.
CUAMUP513 – Design and apply special make-up effects
Learn to create special effects and apply prosthetics for screen and entertainment industries.
SHBHDES004 – Create classic long hair up-styles
Design and complete long hair up-styles for formal, bridal, and editorial settings.
CUAPPR415 – Develop and discuss ideas for own creative work
Refine your ability to develop creative concepts and share them confidently with others.
CUAPPR512 – Develop sustainability of own professional practice
Set achievable goals and learn how to build a long-term, sustainable creative career.
CUARES412 – Conduct research
Learn to research visual ideas and translate design briefs into practical creative outcomes.
SHBBMUP012 – Apply airbrush makeup
Explore airbrush techniques for beauty, body art, and special effects applications.
SHBBMUP010 – Design and apply makeup for photography
Design and apply makeup for various lighting styles, angles, and photographic environments.
CUADES412 – Interpret and respond to a design brief
Learn to interpret makeup design briefs, explore trends and techniques, and build a portfolio that showcases your creative process and ability to respond to industry needs.
* Eligible VSL students