Performance Makeup Artist Program

Take your talent to the highest level. Our Performance Makeup Artist Program immerses you in 2,100 hours of hands-on training, preparing you for careers in theater, opera, ballet, TV, film, and more. You’ll build advanced skills in makeup artistry, special effects, wig & hair, and costume design—guided by industry pros and real-world productions.

All-in-one training for stage & screen

Performance Makeup Artist Program

Master beauty, character, FX, wigs, and costume in a 2,100-hour diploma. Build a hire-ready portfolio on 30 live productions while learning from Emmy-winning artists, and tailor your track with wig or costume electives to fit your career goals.

Program at a Glance

What You’ll Learn

Art Foundations – design theory, drawing, color studies, and sculpture that ground every creative decision you’ll make.
Makeup Artistry I & II – progress from beauty and corrective looks to complex character, period, and HD applications for stage and screen.
Special-Effects Makeup I & II – move from out-of-the-kit injuries to multi-piece prosthetics, creature builds, and advanced paint work that meets union-set standards.
Wig & Hair Design I & II – ventilate, hand-tie, and style wigs (deep fronts, fully hand-tied, period & contemporary) -- or swap these for advanced Costume courses if you’d rather focus on garment work.
Intro to Costume – backstage etiquette, wardrobe workflow, and the fundamentals of patterning and construction.
Business & Portfolio Development – pricing, contracts, branding, and a polished portfolio that showcases up to 30 class projects.

Student Work

Student Testimonial

See what our clients have to say

Without a doubt, the best school there is. AMUA gives you all the tools to succeed in the industry, and has mentors and instructors that actually care about you and your work on a personal level. You gain so much more than just a unique education here; you gain colleagues, friends, and life-long family. Walking in the door is like coming home.

AMUA is more than just a school—it’s a place where passion turns into expertise. From day one, I felt supported by mentors who genuinely cared about my growth. The hands-on training, industry insights, and real-world experience I gained here prepared me for success. The best part? The lifelong friendships and professional connections.

Choosing AMUA was the best decision I ever made. The instructors are not just teachers; they are mentors who guide you at every step. The curriculum is designed to give you real industry exposure, ensuring that you graduate with confidence and skills that set you apart Beyond education.

Ready to level up?

Consumer Information

Academy of Make Up Arts is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, a Division of Postsecondary Education. This authorization is renewed annually based on evaluations of education quality, ethical business practices, and financial responsibility. For detailed job placement and graduation information, visit the official Tennessee Higher Education Commission website.