INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP ESSENTIALS CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
3.5 OR 7 WEEKS | 140 HOURS

CERTIFICATE PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Our International Makeup Essentials Certificate Program features the same award-winning teaching methods and instructors as our extended programs, immersing you in the world of makeup and equipping you with fundamentals skills and knowledge. Due to the shorter course length, a Study Visa is not required. International Students can attend this course if they are travelling on holiday or on a Work Visa, or hold a Study Permit and are studying at another college or university and wish to take this Program during their scheduled breaks. This option is perfect for International Students who love makeup but are unable to commit to a longer program.

This program is perfect for Domestic students who wish to learn essential foundational skills in the Beauty Makeup Industry. With a shorter schedule, it allows you to start a career in the promptly.

In our hands-on classes you will learn professional makeup artistry techniques, developing your technical ability through practical application. Upon graduation you will earn a Certificate in Makeup.

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Highly interactive classroom environment and professional photoshoots, with an emphasis on practical hands-on learning.
• Students are working on each other as models on a continual rotation; students must be comfortable having makeup applied on them and applying makeup on others.
• The International Makeup Foundations Certificate Program does not offer the Co-op Work Experience Program.
• Our Career Services are available for all students and graduates, connecting them with Industry Professionals, volunteer and career opportunities.

SCHEDULE

The International Makeup Essentials Certificate Program is full-time. There are two scheduling options to choose from:

1. Full-Time, Regular: Mon to Wed or Wed to Fri schedule options, 20 hours per week = Program length of 7 weeks
2. Full-Time, Accelerated: Monday to Fridays, 40 hours per week = Program length of 3.5 weeks

PROGRAM LEVELS

LEVEL 1: Makeup Artistry 1 = 80 hours
LEVEL 2: Bridal Makeup = 40 hours
LEVEL 3: Bridal Hair = 20 hours
TOTAL HOURS = 140 hours

Note: the order of these Program levels may vary

CONTINUING YOUR STUDIES

As a graduate of the International Makeup Essentials Certificate Program you can transfer all of your credits to the International Makeup Studio Diploma Program.You will be able to learn elevated makeup for the fashion industry, airbrushing and more advanced business development. It’s the perfect path for students who wish to add to their professional portfolio.

LEVEL 1: MAKEUP ARTISTRY

Develop a solid foundation of skills and knowledge to build upon throughout the program. Gain the essentials of makeup application as you work with different skin types, tones, ages and ethnic groups. Our instructors will share their winning techniques for blending, contouring, shading and highlighting. Learn about face shape, eyes, lips, brows and skin care. Perform practical applications in daytime and evening makeup, classic, natural, glamour and dramatic styles. At CurliQue, our Beauty Boutique, you will develop hands-on product knowledge with Industry Pros.

LEVEL 2: BRIDAL MAKEUP

Learn the creative and business sides of the lucrative bridal industry. Our instructors will teach you how to conduct a bridal makeup consultation, build client relationships and negotiate a contract. Create and apply traditional, contemporary, ethnic and avant-garde bridal makeup styles. Learn the secrets of flawless, sheer and natural bridal makeup. We’ll show you how to work with different skin types and styles, and incorporate bridal gowns and accessories into your makeup designs. Learn to work with a hairdresser and photographer on a professional bridal photo shoot, and begin compiling your portfolio images.

LEVEL 3: BRIDAL HAIR

Learn fundamental hairstyling skills so that you can create a total look from head to toe. Our industry expert instructor will train you in styling techniques including roller setting, blow-drying, backcombing and finishing, and updos including scrunching, teasing, braiding and easy buns. Learn to create vintage looks and contemporary styles as you begin to integrate hairstyling trends and current fashion looks into your designs. Upgrade your skills with a range of bridal hairstyles including the French twist, French roll, back bun, Spanish bun, knot tying, easy beehive and top head bun. We’ll show you how to position bridal hair accessories and incorporate twists and knots for contemporary styles.

LEVEL 4: INTRO TO ART & TECHNOLOGY

Learn how to capture your work through effective photography, and create eye-commanding visuals to project your makeup talent in the digital realm. With a professional photographer as your guide you will execute an industry-standard photoshoot. Discover how to maximize your digital camera to produce high quality results, select effective backdrops and lighting, and learn the essentials of photoshoot etiquette. You will produce industry standard shots of your work, receive professional feedback from a photographer, and learn first-hand the relationship between makeup and photography. We’ll identify the key features of a great portfolio, and help you choose personal design elements to create your own.

LEVEL 5: FASHIONS IN MAKEUP & PHOTOGRAPHIC MAKEUP

Explore the history of makeup as we study different eras of the 20th century and examine current makeup trends. You’ll create face charts and perform practical applications for runway and fashion show looks, model tests and actor headshots. Develop corrective and camouflage techniques and discover how lighting impacts makeup. Working with a creative team – hairstylist, fashion stylist, photographer and model – you will collaborate on a makeup look for a professional fashion photo shoot. Learn the role of a Makeup Artist in runway and print environments as you develop etiquette for working with production teams, clients and agencies.

LEVEL 6: AIRBRUSHING

Turn air into an artform as you learn how to clean, assemble, load and operate an airbrush. Design character charts and experiment with patterns and textures. Learn to use masks, shields, templates and friskets and apply beauty, glamour, fashion and fantasy makeup with an airbrush. Your instructors will teach you how cover tattoos and skin discolourations, and create airbrush tattoos. Then, design and perform an airbrush makeup application on the face, body and hair for a professional photo shoot.

LEVEL 7: FASHIONS IN MAKEUP: HIGH FASHION & CUTTING-EDGE MAKEUP

Fashion makeup meets the cutting edge as we explore contemporary makeup and avant-garde looks. We’ll explore the fashion trends in makeup that are on the cutting-edge of style and show you how to forecast future makeup trends. Discover how art, music, high fashion and street culture influence makeup, and analyze high fashion runway looks through discussions, visuals and video. As you continue to develop your skills and confidence in makeup application, you’ll take your talent into the future as you design, develop and apply a futuristic hair and makeup look for a professional photoshoot.

LEVEL 8: COSMETIC RETAILING & RESUMÉ

In this hands-on career-coaching intensive, we’ll help you polish your professional style and develop your skills in business communications, career awareness and job search. Learn how to write a standout cover letter, produce an industry CV and conduct a winning interview. You’ll develop the tools and confidence to network, build relationships, and identify and communicate with prospective employers. Since many professional Makeup Artists begin their careers in retail, we’ll cover the essentials of “counter culture,” including the language of retail, sales and marketing techniques, customer service and client consultations. At CurliQue Beauty our Talent Team will guide you through their winning “Art of the Sale” technique and coach you on sales and customer care.

LEVEL 9: ART & TECHNOLOGY

Combine your creative talents with technology as you learn how to promote yourself as a Makeup Professional using digital graphic design tools. Create your own digital portfolio presentation with Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft PowerPoint, and produce finished images for your portfolio. Optimize your photo shoot images for different media and learn how to synthesize your work with other digital content. Design a business card, retouch your images and produce a multimedia presentation. We’ll give you a portfolio masterclass so you can design and compile a professional portfolio for marketing your talents and developing industry connections. These tools will create impact and results as you begin your Makeup career.

PLEASE NOTE:

The order of modules that each student receives may vary due to instructor scheduling needs. Each student receives the exact same modules and total amount of training but the order of some modules may vary for certain groups.

The college reserves the right to change course offerings, course content, kit contents, facilities, faculty, tuition fees, and course schedules without notice.

If you are planning to study in a program in Canada that lasts six months or less, you do not need a Study Permit. That means you can take our three-month accelerated Program without having to worry about getting extensive documentation. However, you must complete the course or program within the period authorized for your stay in Canada.

Even if you do not need a Study Permit, it is a good idea to apply for one before you come to Canada. If you decide that you want to continue your studies in another program after you complete your short-term course or program, and you do not already have a Study Permit, then you must apply for one through a Canadian visa office outside Canada.

There are many benefits to having a Study Permit. Study Permit holders are legally allowed to work “off campus” for the same number of hours per week as their studies. For example, if you are taking our program 20 hours per week, you can also work 20 hours per week while you are studying. This is an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the Canadian Makeup Industry. It will help you prepare for your career while funding your studies and living expenses.

As a Study Permit Holder you could also choose to take our Co-op Work Experience Program.

WHO WE ARE

Since 1960, the Blanche Macdonald Centre has offered the highest quality training in Makeup Artistry. We have a rich heritage, and a history of educational excellence. Yet we remain on the cutting edge by constantly innovating our programs with the latest technology and techniques. Today we are recognized as the leading Makeup College in Canada.

The Blanche Macdonald Centre is a hub of creativity. We are a globally renowned college with three campuses–and yet we maintain a welcoming, family atmosphere. We provide the guidance, networks and tools required for a professional makeup career. We embrace diversity, and encourage excellence by nurturing and supporting each one of our students throughout their education–and beyond.

GLOBAL REPUTATION, GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Blanche Macdonald is recognized globally for producing top industry professionals. Our Faculty and Graduates have received international accolades and awards including Emmy, Gemini and Leo Awards for Outstanding Makeup. They have worked with prestigious global brands including MAC, Make Up For Ever, Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs, Rick Owens, Top Shop, Nike and Adidas. Their work has been featured in major international films and television programs, on the runways of Paris, New York and Milan, and on the covers of global magazines including Vogue and Elle.

Many students who have graduated from our International Makeup Studio Program are now successfully working around the world as top Makeup Artists. They have built their own careers in Fashion and Wedding Makeup, in TV & Film, or as business entrepreneurs. Some have stayed in North America. Others have returned to their home countries, or have travelled the world doing what they love.

OUR PROMISE TO YOU

Moving to a new place, or exploring a new path is one of the most exciting things you can do. It also takes a lot of courage. Your journey will be filled with new experiences, new friends, new adventures and new challenges. But don’t worry. We are here to support you throughout your experience.

At Blanche Macdonald we will welcome you with open arms. We celebrate your courage, and we honour your commitment to your future. We will offer our advice and assistance as you settle into life in Vancouver. If you need someone to talk to, someone to help you, or someone to be by your side, we’ll be there for you every step of the way.

As a student here, you will gain more than an education. You will become part of a global family.

1. WE ARE A GLOBAL FAMILY

Students can get lost in the shuffle, but not here. We care about you, and we prove it day in and day out. You’ll always find someone here to connect with and to help. Our circle of support extends to the classroom and beyond. Once you are part of the Blanche family, you are part of our global network for life. We will always be here for you.

2. OUR FOCUS IS ON CREATIVITY – NOT PERFECTION

There is no need to worry or feel insecure about your language skills. We focus on practical skills and visual learning, not theory and written tests. Our emphasis is on group projects, professional mentoring, networking and sharing. You will be graded on your work, attitude, creativity and work ethic – not your English. Our instructors anticipate that you may have language challenges. They are patient and kind, and will take the time to ensure you understand all program material.

3. YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE BEST THAT CANADA OFFERS

We are a Canadian College. When you are a student here you will learn about North American beauty, style, social media, techniques and technology. You will also have the opportunity to meet the best of North America’s Makeup Industry. We often invite global beauty leaders to the College for speaking events, master classes and demonstrations. Past VIPs have included Dany Sanz, the founder of MAKE UP FOR EVER; Oscar winners Ve Neill and Howard Berger; and Emmy winners Eve Pearl and Todd McIntosh, our Makeup Director.

4. YOU WILL HAVE ACCESS TO THE WORLD’S BEST PRODUCTS

We bring the best global and local brands into your Makeup Kit. With our school + salon + store, our students are exposed to thousands of products and continual product knowledge. This is only possible because of our in-house Pro Beauty Boutique, CurliQue. You’ll learn about prestige brands, cult brands, organic, paraben free, vegan, clean/ethical beauty, and all the latest trending products.

Note: The College reserves the right to change Kit contents and brands as needed.

5. WE ARE A UNITED NATIONS

We are proud of our diverse mix of students from around the globe, united in a passion for makeup. We don’t just teach you “our style” of makeup – it’s a sharing experience. Each student has the opportunity to express their cultural heritage and interests through the creative process. That way, we learn from each other. We encourage you to build on our training to express your own vision and tap into your heritage. Our International Students are a great resource. You bring your culture, your character and your experience. You already have creativity within you – we are here to help you express it in your own unique voice.

Vancouver is truly an international city. Often voted as one of the world’s most livable cities, it is a safe, clean metropolis of diverse cultures. Located on the Pacific Ocean, it is surrounded by water, forest and the beautiful Coast Mountains. The world-renowned ski resort of Whistler is within two hours of downtown. Vancouver Island, home to spectacular natural beauty and the provincial capital city of Victoria, is just a ferry ride away. Our welcoming coastal city also offers an unparalleled quality of life, excellent shopping and world-class dining. It’s a wonderful place to live, and we are proud to call it home.

Blanche Macdonald graduates consistently rise to the top of the makeup business, bringing their artistry to every corner of the industry and garnering international recognition. They’re winning Emmy Awards and creating looks at global Fashion Weeks. They’re jet-setting from blockbuster film sets to exclusive red carpet events, gracing the covers of Vogue magazine and commanding makeup and special effects departments on major TV shows. They’re our grads, and they’re leading lights of the makeup world. We have thousands of successful makeup alumni. And we want you to reach these same heights. So we have lovingly crafted a Program that will train you for the industry, coach you in professionalism, and prepare you for a successful career in Makeup once you graduate.

Career Services

The Makeup Industry offers endless opportunities for rewarding, creative and flexible careers. The skills that you develop on our Program can be transferred anywhere in the world – so there’s no limit to where you can go. Whether your focus will be on Fashion, Bridal or Beauty, there’s a place for you in this industry.

Our full-time Career Services Team have powerful connections in the Makeup Industry. They will connect you with volunteer, internship and employment opportunities. You will be invited to join an exclusive web page where Career Directors will post opportunities in wedding, fashion and retail events to help you build your experience, network and portfolio.

Our Career Directors are dedicated to you and your success. They will support you in finding your perfect career fit, assist you in building your network, and help you in developing your confidence. Their guidance is good for life. It starts on your very first day and continues throughout your career.

Industry Overview

FASHION

On red carpets and runways, Blanche Macdonald graduates are finding success in the Fashion Makeup world. Their work is featured on the stages of global fashion events and the pages of top fashion magazines. From Vancouver to Taipei, New York to Tokyo, London to Seoul, Mexico City to Beijing, our students are transforming their makeup passion into fashion careers.

Our graduates and faculty have worked for some of the world’s most influential designers, including Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Rick Owens, Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. They have collaborated with globally renowned artists, photographers and megabrands like MTV and Nike, and worked at high profile events including global Fashion Weeks and the Oscars.
                        

WEDDING

Flawless glamour, timeless grace: here comes the Bridal Makeup Artist. Many of our graduates have become successful wedding makeup artists, winning awards and building lucrative businesses. Constantly in demand, their calendars are filled year-round. They can choose their clients and decide their own schedule, enjoying creative freedom and flexible schedules.

Wedding Makeup is a global business. It’s also an opportunity to express your creativity and draw from your heritage. With diverse styles from Indian Bollywood to Asian Glamour, many artists travel around the world to work at destination weddings. It’s not just a rewarding career – it’s a chance to connect with people from different cultures, and make their celebratory day truly special.

RETAIL LEADERSHIP

Many successful Makeup Artists begin their professional careers in Retail. Starting at a major retailer or cosmetic counter, they advance to Account Executive, Manager, District Manager, Area Supervisor, and even Regional and National Director. Others choose to focus in on one brand, training fellow Makeup Artists locally or on an international platform, educating about specific products, performing demos and giving presentations.

SOCIAL MEDIA

In this fast-paced digital age, Social Media is where makeup stars are created. Many of our graduates are high-profile Social Media Influencers who have thousands of followers, leading them to professional success and lucrative careers. They channel their creativity through blogs, images and video to attract subscribers from across the world. Makeup careers are made on Instagram and YouTube, making Social Media one of the fastest-growing fields in the Industry.

Career Opportunities

Create couture looks for editorial, the runway or the red carpet as a Fashion Makeup Artist.

Provide the precious and personalized service of wedding makeup as a Bridal Makeup Artist.

Connect with customers, curate product and demonstrate your technique as a Retail Beauty Specialist, Retail Manager or Freelance Demo Artist.

Share the story, vision and concept of a brand with other makeup professionals as a Trainer or Pro Educator.

Curate product as a Makeup Purchasing Coordinator, using your skills for inventory control, buying, purchasing and negotiating to ensure the best mix for your market.

Promote your passion, build a brand and influence the makeup world as a Social Media Professional.

Share your insights and ideas as a Beauty Blogger or Vlogger, and build a subscriber base that will tune in to follow your creative journey.

Join an established brand or work independently as a Social Media Influencer, combining your makeup expertise with a keen sense of trends and an ability to engage an audience.

Tell compelling makeup stories as a Beauty Writer, captivating readers with reviews and editorial.

Go on a world tour with a band or performer, or create makeup looks for the stars, as a Celebrity Makeup Artist.

Use your eye for colour, design and form to advise shoppers, private clients and celebrities as a Beauty Consultant.

Develop your own makeup line and mix essences, compounds and colour as a Brand Creator.

Open your own business: start a mobile makeup biz, pop up a shop, or use your creativity to fill a unique niche in the makeup market as an Entrepreneur.

Share your passion and knowledge with the next generation of Makeup Artists as an Educator or Instructor.

Master the art of the Airbrush and paint your ideas to life as an Airbrush Artist.

Create living works of art for events, performances, ads, editorial and competitions as a Body Painter.

INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP STUDIO

Full-time Diploma program (400 hours)
Duration: 3 or 6 months

There are two scheduling options available:

1. Accelerated: 3 months (12 weeks), 5 days/week, 40 hours/week (Monday to Fridays schedule)
2. 6 months (24 weeks), 3 days/week, 20 hours/week (Mondays to Wednesdays or Wednesdays to Fridays schedule)

For Domestic Students: the lowest Tuition payment plan option is $8,300 for the entire program length.

Following your program acceptance, the following fee payments totaling $950 (exclusive of tuition) are required on the day of enrollment:

1. An assessment fee of $150
2. A non-refundable registration fee of $250
3. An administrative fee of $550

Professional Makeup Kit: $3,100 + GST/PST (exclusive of tuition)

For International Students: the lowest Tuition payment plan option is $13,900 for the entire program length.

Following your program acceptance, the following fee payments totaling $1,700 (exclusive of tuition) are required on the day of enrollment:

1. An assessment fee of $150
2. A registration fee of $1,000
3. An administrative fee of $550

Professional Makeup Kit: $3,100 + GST/PST (exclusive of tuition)

INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP STUDIO CO-OP

Full-time Diploma Program with Work Experience
Co-op Work Experience is only available for the 6 month International Makeup Studio option.
Duration: 1 year – International Makeup Studio Program (6 months) + 6 months of Co-op Work Experience

Co-op Tuition is $2,000 (in addition to International International Makeup Studio program tuition)

To view Tuition for International Makeup Essentials (3.5 week or 7 week Makeup Certificate Program for International Students), please click here.

Tuition Grants may be available for specific programs and start dates. Please ask your Admissions Advisor about any available Tuition Grants.

Class sizes are very limited. Early registration is required to guarantee a seat in a class.

To learn more about our various payment plan options and upcoming start dates, please fill out our info-request form or connect with your Admissions Advisor.

Making an Application is simple and easy. This is our way of getting to know you. Please fill out the Application form and then an Admissions Director will arrange a time to connect with you. This is a wonderful way for us to share information and insights about the program, the industry, career development, job opportunities, potential tuition grants and financial aid options. And this is our time to learn about you, what your career goals are, what you would like to achieve with your career training, what questions and concerns we can help you with. There is no enrollment deposit made until you have been formally accepted into the program. Please submit your Application here.