How Long Does a Makeup Course Take?
CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College
A makeup course can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 12 months, depending on the course type, delivery method, and your learning pace. At Bela Beauty College, most students complete their online certification within 10 to 12 weeks, with access to course materials for up to 24 months for flexible learning.
What Is the Average Makeup Course Duration?
The time it takes to complete a makeup course varies based on:
- The type of course (beginner, certificate, diploma, advanced)
- Whether it’s online, in-person, or self-paced
- Your availability (full-time vs. part-time)
But let’s get straight to the point:
At Bela Beauty College, our most popular online makeup courses are designed to be completed in 10–12 weeks, with extended access for up to 24 months to study at your own pace.
Factors That Influence Makeup Course Duration
Course Type & Level
Different levels of makeup education come with varying timelines:
- Beginner Courses
Basic foundational Course. Ideal for those just starting out. - Certificate Courses
Offers essential makeup skills, often completed within 2 to 3 months. - Diploma & Advanced Diploma Courses
These programs are more in-depth, often taking 4 to 12 months to complete. - Specializations
Bridal, editorial, theatrical, or special effects makeup — these often require additional training.
Delivery Method
- Online Makeup Courses
Flexible and self-paced. Typically 8–12 weeks, but depends on your schedule. - In-Person Classes
Often faster-paced. Some full-time programs wrap up in 6 to 8 weeks, but require strict attendance. - Hybrid Learning Models
A blend of both worlds — online theory with in-person practical sessions.
Your Learning Schedule
- Full-Time Students
Can complete most courses quickly — within 6–12 weeks. - Part-Time Students
Spread learning over several months, ideal if you’re working or raising a family.
Self-Paced Learners
Take longer if needed. At Bela Beauty College, you get up to 24 months to finish your course.
How Long Is a Makeup Course at Bela Beauty College?
Our online makeup certification programs are designed with flexibility in mind.
- Standard Course Duration: 10–12 weeks
- Extended Access: Up to 24 months to review lessons and practice
- Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience required
- Includes Makeup Kit: Full professional makeup kit delivered to your door
Why Choose Bela Beauty College?
- Study anywhere, anytime
- Pay-as-you-go options (as low as $37/week)
- Industry-qualified educators
- Real feedback from real trainers
- Lifetime access to support and community
How Long Does It Take to Become a Certified Makeup Artist?
If you’re aiming to become certified, you’ll need to complete a course that includes:
- Practical assessments
- Theoretical lessons
- Portfolio development
Most certified makeup artists are qualified within 8 to 16 weeks through online programs like the ones offered at Bela Beauty College.
Note: Self-teaching via YouTube or TikTok won’t give you a certification, which is required to work professionally in many salons or freelance roles
Pros and Cons of Different Course Durations
Short-Term Courses (2 days – 2 weeks)
Pros:
- Quick upskilling
- Lower cost
- Focused on 1–2 techniques
Cons:
- Not usually accredited
- Limited in scope
- Less career value
Medium-Term Courses (4 – 12 weeks)
Pros:
- Balanced learning
- Covers fundamentals + hands-on skills
- Ideal for aspiring professionals
Cons:
- Requires weekly commitment
- May need more time to master advanced skills
Long-Term Courses (6 – 12 months)
Pros:
- Deep technical training
- Opens doors to specialisations (film, bridal, fashion)
- Recognised qualifications
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Greater time investment
- Not always flexible
How Long Is Makeup School?
Makeup school can last anywhere from 6 weeks to over a year, depending on whether it’s part-time, full-time, or advanced-level training. At Bela Beauty College, our online certification fits comfortably into a 3-month schedule.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Makeup Artist?
With consistent study and practice, you can become a certified makeup artist in 10 to 16 weeks. That includes completing all assessments, building your portfolio, and receiving feedback from trainers.
Can I Become a Makeup Artist Online?
Yes. Bela Beauty College specialises in online makeup education. Our digital platform lets you:
- Learn at your own pace
- Access content 24/7
- Submit video assessments
- Connect with trainers for feedback
How Many Hours Is a Makeup Course?
Most standard online programs require:
- Around 100–120 hours of study
Including practical and theoretical components
What Happens After You Complete Your Makeup Course?
Completing your course is just the beginning. Here’s what comes next:
- Start Your Freelance Career
Offer services for weddings, events, photoshoots. - Apply for Salon or Studio Work
Use your certificate to apply for professional roles. - Specialise
Go deeper into bridal, editorial, or special effects makeup. - Build Your Portfolio
Start with friends or models, photograph your work, and grow your client base. - Join a Community
At Bela Beauty College, you gain access to our alumni group and industry networks.
How to Choose the Right Makeup Course for You
Ask yourself:
- What are my career goals?
- Do I need flexibility?
- Do I want to work full-time or part-time?
- How soon do I want to start earning?
Key Things to Consider:
- Course Content: Does it include theory and hands-on?
- Support: Will I get trainer feedback?
- Accreditation: Is it recognised by the industry?
- Cost: Does it offer payment plans?
- Tools: Are kits and materials included?
Ready to Start Your Makeup Journey?
Becoming a certified makeup artist doesn’t have to take years. With the right training, tools, and support, you can launch your beauty career in just a few short months.
At Bela Beauty College, we’re proud to help aspiring makeup artists gain real-world skills, confidence, and certification — all from the comfort of their home.
