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Vocational & T Level

Hair & Media Make-up Certificate/Diploma Level 2

Subject Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Start Date
September 2026
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
1 year
Level
Level 2

The VTCT Level 2 qualification in Hair & Media Make-up is a dynamic course designed for individuals looking to develop creative skills in both hair styling and make-up artistry. Perfect for aspiring hairdressers and make-up artists, this qualification covers a range of techniques, including fashion and photographic make-up, basic hair styling, and the application of basic special effects make-up.

Students will gain hands-on experience working with industry-standard products and tools, while also learning the fundamentals of client care, health and safety, and consultation techniques. Whether you’re aiming for a career in salons, or freelance artistry, this course provides the essential skills and knowledge to start your journey in the hair and make-up industry.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 3 GCSE subjects at grade 3 and Maths or English at a grade 4 or above, or have a Level 1 qualification in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy/Media Make-up.

What will I study?

Topics you will study include:

  • Health and Safety
  • Client Care and Communication in the Beauty-related Industry
  • Apply Make-up
  • The Art of Photographic Make-up
  • The Art of Dressing Hair
  • Create an Image Based on a Theme within the Hair and Beauty Sector
  • Theme Face Painting
  • Body Art Design
  • Colour and Lighten Hair
  • Cut Women’s Hair
  • Shampoo and Condition the Hair and Scalp


Additional costs
All students are required to purchase a practical kit and uniform, details of which will be provided during your advice and guidance discussion and induction.

Method of delivery

This course is predominantly a practical-based course. This means that the majority of your training will be delivered in one of the College salons or workshops. You’ll be expected to complete theoretical knowledge through homework activities and directed learning, although some theory work will also be embedded into practical sessions. Tests and assignments will also be used to check and test your knowledge and understanding. 

A variety of enrichment activities will be scheduled throughout the year to extend skills and knowledge. You will also take part in competition work to showcase advanced techniques.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment consists of practical observations on paying clients (hairdressing skills), demonstrating professional skills and effective client care and communication. You may often be required to find some of your own models for assessment, particularly for the make-up aspects of the course.

Oral and written questioning, assignments, projects and tests online are used to test knowledge and understanding.

You will need to produce a portfolio showing examples of your work.

Good course combinations

This is a full-time course. It is not possible to combine this course with other Vocational, T Level, Apprenticeship or A Level programmes.

Your next steps

Career possibilities following Level 2 could include working as a hairdresser or as a make-up artist/consultant. Students with a keen interest in media hair and make-up are advised to continue with their training and education and complete Level 3 Media Make-up (and potentially Levels 4, 5 (Foundation degree) and Level 6 (BA Hons degree).

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