Choosing the right makeup school can be a difficult task. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure which is best. Lucky for you, we made a list of the best Canadian makeup schools organized by industry to help you make this important decision.
A top makeup school should offer a complete program that covers basic and advanced skills, with hands-on training from experienced teachers. It should also provide opportunities to specialize in different areas of makeup and encourage artistic development.
QC Makeup Academy – Online
As the top overall makeup school, QC Makeup Academy offers a wide range of programs. The Master Makeup Artistry course focuses on building a strong foundation with feedback from industry experts. Once students have taken this, they can further specialize in areas like bridal, Special FX, airbrush, and fashion makeup techniques, providing a comprehensive education for aspiring makeup artists.
Accessible online, this program allows students worldwide to learn from experienced instructors at their own pace. The course also emphasizes professional development and portfolio building, equipping students with the skills needed for success in the industry. QC Makeup Academy stands out for its flexible learning options and commitment to covering all aspects of makeup artistry, providing globally recognized makeup certification.
Best International Makeup Schools
Attending a top-rated international makeup school is key if you aspire to work in the international makeup scene. These schools offer courses that cater to different cultural trends and techniques, giving students a well-rounded education that prepares them for a global career.
Blanche Macdonald Centre – Vancouver, Canada
Located in Vancouver, Canada, this school offers a comprehensive International Makeup Program covering beauty, fashion, bridal, and editorial makeup. It includes special courses on cultural makeup techniques, ideal for aspiring global beauty professionals. Students learn diverse styles and methods, preparing them for various international markets.
Blanche Macdonald Centre boasts international instructors who have worked with top brands and celebrities. This global perspective exposes students to different industry standards and trends. The school’s strong connections with the global beauty industry offer excellent networking opportunities, internships, and potential job placements, making it a top choice for those aiming to excel in international makeup artistry.
CMU College of Makeup Art & Design – Toronto, Canada
As a leading makeup school in North America, CMU College focuses on international students and preparing them for success in the global beauty industry. Their International Makeup Program covers cultural makeup techniques, business, and marketing skills to help students thrive globally.
CMU also offers workshops and seminars with guest artists worldwide, providing valuable networking opportunities and exposure to diverse styles and trends. This makes it an excellent choice for aspiring international makeup artists.
Best Bridal Makeup Schools
Specializing in bridal makeup requires understanding how to create timeless, elegant looks that photograph beautifully and last all day. Top programs offer training on wedding day techniques, client consultation, and the latest bridal trends to ensure stunning results for every bride.
Institute of Makeup Artistry – Online
The Institute of Makeup Artistry provides advanced virtual modules tailored for bridal makeup enthusiasts. This comprehensive course covers both classic bridal techniques and airbrush makeup, setting it apart from the rest! You will learn the intricacies of different bridal looks, ensuring you can cater to a wide range of brides and their unique preferences.
This program also emphasizes the business side of bridal makeup, teaching students how to market themselves effectively and build a successful career in this niche industry. With a well-rounded program focusing on all aspects of bridal makeup—including the business side—you will leave feeling equipped to start and sustain your career.
The School of Professional Makeup – Toronto, Canada
With a dedicated Bridal & Beauty Makeup Artistry Program, the School of Professional Makeup offers specialized training for aspiring bridal makeup artists. This program focuses on creating flawless and timeless looks for weddings and other special events.
Students receive hands-on training using current techniques and trends that cater to different styles and cultural backgrounds. With an emphasis on business skills, students gain knowledge on building a successful career in bridal makeup artistry.
Best Everyday Makeup Schools
Everyday makeup should be versatile, easy to apply, and enhance natural beauty without looking overdone. Training focuses on practical techniques, efficiency, product knowledge, and tips for maintaining a flawless appearance throughout the day.
Canadian Beauty College – Toronto, Canada
Canadian Beauty College offers a comprehensive program for mastering everyday makeup skills. The curriculum focuses on enhancing natural beauty with straightforward techniques. Emphasizing product knowledge, students learn to choose and apply the right products for various skin types and tones for a flawless finish.
Additionally, hands-on practice with experienced instructors provides personalized feedback. This practical approach builds confidence and ensures graduates can create polished, everyday looks with ease. The strong focus on foundational skills and advanced techniques makes it an excellent choice for those specializing in daily makeup applications.
GD College – Mississauga, Canada
GD College’s Makeup Artist Diploma program offers a comprehensive education in everyday makeup techniques. Located in Mississauga, Canada, the school provides hands-on training with experienced instructors and the latest tools and products.
The program covers essential skills like skin care, color theory, and product knowledge for enhancing natural features. Students also learn about the business side of the industry through courses on client communication and building a professional portfolio. With its practical approach and thorough curriculum, GD College prepares students for success.
Best Fashion Makeup Schools
Fashion makeup takes a unique blend of artistry, trends awareness, and technical skills. Top fashion makeup schools prepare students to excel in high-pressure environments like photoshoots, runway shows, and editorial projects, equipping them with the techniques and creativity needed to make a statement in the fashion industry.
Glow College of Makeup – Vancouver, Canada
Glow College’s Fashion Makeup program is perfect for aspiring fashion makeup artists. Based in Vancouver, Canada, the program offers both online and in-person options, accommodating various learning preferences. The curriculum extensively covers high-fashion makeup techniques, creating striking editorial looks, and keeping up with industry trends.
What truly distinguishes Glow College is its strong focus on fashion makeup artistry. The program encourages students to push boundaries and explore their creativity while mastering essential technical skills. Furthermore, the school collaborates with major fashion events and brands, providing invaluable opportunities for hands-on experience in the fashion makeup industry.
Toronto Fashion Academy – Toronto, Canada
The High Fashion Makeup Workshop at the Toronto Fashion Academy is essential for aspiring fashion makeup artists. Located in Toronto’s fashion district, the school offers hands-on learning with industry professionals and renowned guest artists.
Students learn advanced techniques for creating editorial looks and transforming models into walking works of art. The program also covers skills like collaborating with photographers and stylists, perfect for those entering the high-fashion makeup world.
Best Television/Film Makeup Schools
Choosing the right television and film makeup school is crucial for mastering skills from natural makeup to complex special effects. Top programs offer hands-on training with industry-standard tools, emphasizing continuity and preparing students for the fast-paced world of entertainment.
JCI- Vancouver, Canada
The Makeup Artistry program at the John Casablancas Institute in Vancouver, Canada is a top choice for those interested in television, SFX, and film makeup. The intensive curriculum focuses on techniques like prosthetics application, aging effects, and creating looks for various genres and eras.
Additionally, students receive hands-on training with industry-standard tools and products from experienced instructors with extensive backgrounds in the entertainment industry. With its specialized focus and practical approach to learning, the JCI Makeup Artistry program prepares students to excel in the fast-paced world of television, special effects, and film makeup. Whether you want to work
VFS Makeup Design for Film + Television – Vancouver, Canada
VFS’s Makeup Design for Film + Television program is ideal for students aiming for a career in film and TV makeup. Located in Vancouver, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum on all aspects of makeup design for the entertainment industry.
VFS stands out with its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced instructors from the industry, and hands-on training with professional tools and products. The program also includes chances to collaborate with departments like acting, directing, and producing, providing valuable experience in a film and TV crew. It’s perfect for students seeking diverse creative environments
Choosing the Right Makeup School
Consider these 5 tips for choosing the right makeup school:
Overall, choosing the right makeup school is an important decision that can greatly impact your future career opportunities. Take time to thoroughly research and consider local regulations before making a decision. Good luck on your journey to becoming a successful makeup artist!
