Become a PRO Makeup Artist in 5 weeks.
Welcome to The Makeup Academy NYC, where passion meets purpose and artistry transforms into a thriving career. Our academy is more than a school—it’s a launchpad for creative dreams, empowering aspiring makeup artists with hands-on training, industry connections, and real-world opportunities. From fashion runways to bridal teams and editorial shoots, our graduates are shaping the beauty industry around the world. Let us help you turn your passion into a profession.
Campuses located in New York City and Philadelphia
Professional Career Program
Master Makeup Artistry
Our premier Master Makeup Artistry Program is your all-in-one pathway to success—covering everything from beauty and bridal makeup to creative editorial, high fashion, TV and film, stage makeup, men’s grooming, and more. This comprehensive program will take your passion to the next level and prepare you for a dynamic career in makeup artistry.
Professional Career Program
Beauty and Bridal Program
The Beauty and Bridal program will equip you with the in’s and out’s of the bridal industry, teaching you not only how to create stunning bridal looks but also how to thrive while working with private clients and bridal teams.
Personal Lessons
Personal Makeup Program
Our personal makeup classes in New York City are for every person wanting to add a little spice and sparkle to their personal makeup routine. During the personal makeup class, your instructor will show you how to perfect a natural everyday makeup look, flawless foundation, contouring, wing liner, the smokey eye, and everything in between.
THE MAKEUP ACADEMY
At our internationally recognized makeup artist school, hands-on, in-person classes are taught by elite, in-demand instructors that are MUA’s in New York City and Philadelphia.
Graduates of our makeup academy earn industry-recognized certification backed by New York State.
Our makeup academy in New York City has been designed for makeup artists in all stages of their careers. Whether you’re new to the industry or have been practicing as a makeup artist for some time, you could benefit from our hair and makeup classes. If one of the following descriptions fits you, you’re ready to enroll in our makeup artist school.
Launch: Students who are new to the makeup industry and/or straight out of high school
Maintain & Advance: Students who have some experience, already work within the industry, or have completed cosmetology school
Enhance: Students who are already accomplished makeup artists and want to take their skills to the next level and/or add a new skill set to their resume.
At our international makeup academy, we are proud to offer a range of hair and makeup classes to help students excel in their freelance makeup artist careers. As a student at our international MUA school, you will develop a number of skills, including applying makeup in different styles, selecting products and materials for your makeup kit, working with creative professionals, and networking with industry professionals to generate business. Whether your ideal clients are brides, models, or actors/actresses, you’ll feel fully prepared to showcase your artistry after our courses for makeup artists and hairstylists.
Personalized Courses: Our courses for makeup are personalized to ensure you have hands-on training as a makeup artist. We believe in giving you the opportunity to learn from well-established professionals in the field so that you have much-needed exposure to the business.
Elite Instructors: We thrive on knowing that our instructors are able to give you one-on-one attention throughout the program to warrant your success and understanding of our curriculum. This is why we keep our classes for makeup artists small. You will never see a class bigger than eight students per instructor.
Tools Supplied: We provide all our students with the tools they need to excel in their education and jumpstart their careers. Our professional makeup contain items handpicked by the professionals at our international beauty academy, so you can rest assured you’ll have the latest products and tools in your makeup arsenal.
Alumni Support: We continue to provide support even after you graduate. We will work with you throughout your time in school to ensure we have a clear understanding of your career goals. Through our agency partnerships, we will connect you with opportunities like New York Fashion Week, the United States Olympic Team, amazing bridal teams, major beauty brands, and much more.
INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
During your classes at a makeup school for national and international students, you’ll learn the fundamentals of makeup application — from color blending, shading, and contouring to analyzing skin types and the basics of skincare.
Once you have a firm foundation under your feet, you can build on these techniques with the support of seasoned professionals at our international beauty school. You’ll have the opportunity to learn the technical aspects of makeup application as well as hairstyling so that you can thrive as a professional makeup artist.
Schools for makeup artists serve as the perfect place to experiment and discover your distinctive edge. No judgment will be placed on your work as you adapt the techniques you learned into styles that are uniquely yours. In fact, your instructors will push you out of your comfort zone, so you’ll be able to develop your creativity. Once you graduate from an international HMUA school, you’ll be ready to let your creativity shine as you create stunning new looks.
Makeup artistry is a service industry, which means it’s not enough to simply master the fundamentals of makeup application. You also need to know how to manage your business, build a client base, and market your skills. The best makeup schools will teach you how to succeed as a freelance makeup artist.
Stand out from the crowd with a certificate from one of the best makeup schools. It’s not simply a piece of paper; it’s a recognition of your mastery of makeup artistry from a school of makeup licensed by the New York State Education Department. It shows you’re dedicated to your art and you have the experience to perform well. This certificate also earns you the ability to get up to 40% off makeup with your PRO discounts!
ELITE INSTRUCTORS & AWARD WINNING PROGRAMS
The Most Comprehensive Classes For Makeup Artists In NYC and Philadelphia
PRO PERKS
Upon graduation, we provide alumni with resources to apply for PRO Card Applications. As a professional makeup artist, gaining access to PRO Cards opens the door to exclusive discounts and perks from top beauty brands. These cards are designed to support industry professionals by providing reduced prices on makeup, tools, and products essential for your kit. Many leading brands offer discounts ranging from 20% to 40% (decided by each brand) as a way to invest in the artistry community.
Enrolling in a reputable makeup academy and building a strong portfolio can help you qualify for these valuable programs, giving you the tools you need to stay stocked with high-quality products while saving money.
Launching Careers For 10 Years
Join the $550 billion beauty industry
Enroll at our internationally recognized school for makeup artists
OUR GRADUATES WORK WITH THE LIKES OF
LICENSED BY
The New York State Education Department
WINNER OF
Best makeup artists in New York City 2016 – 2022
Our Brands
Do What You Love.
Love What You Do.
THE ESSENTIAL MAKEUP ACADEMY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN NYC OR PHILADELPHIA
We are not just your average makeup academy in New York City. We are a highly recognized international makeup academy with makeup and hairstyling for makeup artist classes that allow makeup artists to excel in various MUA industries . Students join us from all over the world to take our programs. Whether you want to be a fashion makeup artist, a retail makeup artist, or somewhere in between, our makeup academy curriculum will get you where you want to go.
With a certification from our makeup school for international students, you can rest assured that you’ll be prepared for a diverse clientele. You’ll have a firm grasp on everything from the basics of blending colors to creating glamour looks. You’ll also have a solid foundation in working with clients, mixing up your creativity, performing on-set, and running your own business. After graduating from our international HMUA academy, you can enjoy an exciting and rewarding career as a freelance makeup artist!
ENROLL IN THE MOST INNOVATIVE MAKEUP & HAIRSTYLE CLASSES IN NYC OR PHILADELPHIA
Students can learn the finer details of makeup artistry and launch their careers in any of the fast-paced career paths for artists including fashion. We are the lead hair and makeup team for many New York Fashion Week, Brooklyn Fashion Week, NY Swim Week shows and many other fashion shows throughout the year. Take advantage of our industry connections and work with major designers, photographers from major publications like Vogue and Glamour, and feel the excitement backstage networking with the industries elite.
Film and Television
This includes being on the set of films, television shows, and commercials. Even if actors do not need any special effects makeup, makeup artists are still needed to help the director shape the appearance of the characters and make their vision a reality.
Print
There are different fields under the umbrella of print. Like film and television, print advertisements and commercials go for a more subtle and natural look. In the case of shooting for fashion, because you would be selling a lifestyle or brand image, you’re also focusing on the mood and the feel of the brand/product itself. While working in print, you may be required to follow the direction of the director.
Bridal
A career as a bridal makeup artist requires you to not only have the necessary skills in makeup application but also the business skills to manage schedules, trials, and contracts. The booming bridal industry is a great place for makeup artists to start as it can be very lucrative and rewarding. Plus, you can build up your clientele quickly by word of mouth or by joining or starting your own bridal team.
Theater and Performance
Stage and theater can cover anything from the makeup used in actual stage performances to special effects makeup in movies. Local theaters — and, of course, Broadway — need theater artists. What would The Lion King be without the makeup artists!
Recent Updates
BRIDAL BEAUTY IS BIG BUSINESS! 💍
From NYC’s non-stop wedding scene to destination “I do’s” around the world, bridal makeup is one of the most lucrative and rewarding paths in the industry. And guess what? You could be the artist behind the next dream bridal look! 👰💕
These STUNNING bridal glam moments? Just a few of the looks created by our talented students in the Beauty & Bridal and Master Makeup Artistry Programs!
Our students don’t just learn makeup—they master long-wear techniques, global bridal trends, and business strategies to thrive in the bridal industry.
🚨 April classes are enrolling now! 🚨 Whether you need weekday, weekend, or weeknight options, we’ve got you covered—giving you plenty of time to graduate and start booking 2025 brides! 💰👑
📢 If you’ve been dreaming of a career in bridal beauty, now’s the time! DM us or hit the link in bio to secure your spot! 💌✨
#BridalMakeupArtist #MakeupSchoolNYC #MUAInTraining #WeddingGlam #BridalBeauty #brides #bridalmakeup #bridalmakeupclass #nycwedding #nycweddinghairstylist
Models and artists comment for a tag!
Photography @natureofportraits @emilkovich
April and May photoshoot model and grad registration dates are open at the Model Registration Link in our bio!
#makeup #model #modelsearch #modelcall #nycmodel #nycmodels #nycmodelsearch #actorcall #nycactor #nycsfx
We couldn’t wait to see the final images from @yewandelawalofficial portfolio shoots!
“As a makeup artist who recently moved from nigeria to the United States I wanted to expand my skills beyond brown skin and become confident working on every skin tone. To take my artistry to the next level, I enrolled in the Makeup Academy Master Program in NYC — and it was hands down the best decision ever! From mastering makeup techniques and sanitation to learning the history of beauty, the experience was incredible. The instructors were fantastic, my classmates became amazing friends, and I felt truly welcomed. I’m so proud of this journey and couldn’t be happier with the decision to invest in my growth!” - Yewande
We are so proud of Yewande and look forward to our next success story! Will it be you?!
Call to learn more 332-334-8848
#makeuplover #makeupschool #nycmakeupartist #nycmua #newyorkmakeupacademy #makeupschoolnyc
Julianna is a beauty and special effects makeup artist from Colorado Springs, CO, with over six years of experience in the makeup industry. She attended Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles, CA, where she honed her craft and graduated in 2019. Known for her versatile skills and artistic vision, she has had the privilege of working on high-profile projects for clients such as LA Times Today, Bape Clothing, Comedy Central, Tommy Hilfiger, and Rocky Mountain Bride.
In addition to her freelance work, she spent five years as both a makeup artist and educator with The Day Colorado, a well-respected bridal hair and makeup company, where she honed her skills in creating flawless bridal looks while sharing her knowledge with others in the industry.
Her passion lies in transforming people into their most beautiful or even most grotesque versions of themselves. Whether she’s enhancing natural beauty or creating hauntingly realistic special effects, Julianna thrives on pushing the boundaries of makeup artistry and bringing her clients’ visions to life. With a deep love for both glamour and gore, she continues to inspire and elevate the industry.
We are thrilled to have Julianna with us as our newest educator. Her passion and creativity add so much to the student experience and we look forward to seeing her grow our FX program and continuing to teach in our Makeup courses!
Join us in saying 👋 to @juliannacmakeup and if you had her class already, share your fav memories @makeupschoolnyc
Congrats to this group of PRO Makeup Artists who graduated and showcased all they learned in their photoshoot last night! We couldn’t be more proud!
Thanks @oslaywemua @juliannacmakeup @zully.nycbeauty @makeupkweenk for leading this group and @natureofportraits!
@saramarie_beauty @tylermua1 @ruthaal @amandasky30_mua @the_artist_josh.mua
UNLEASH YOUR PASSION
Become a PRO Makeup Artist
At The Makeup Academy, our aim is first and foremost to help our students achieve their personal career goals. There’s nothing we love more than to see our students succeed! Whether you’re looking to enhance your beauty fundamentals, learn advanced skills, or enhance your portfolio, The Makeup Academy’s many programs offer a world of knowledge at your fingertips!
Campuses located in New York City and Philadelphia
Professional Career Program
Master Makeup Artistry
Learn More
Professional Career Program
Beauty and Bridal Program
The Beauty and Bridal program will equip you with the in’s and out’s of the bridal industry, teaching you not only how to create stunning bridal looks but also how to thrive while working with private clients and bridal teams.
Personal Lessons
Personal Makeup Program
Our personal makeup classes in New York City are for every person wanting to add a little spice and sparkle to their personal makeup routine. During the personal makeup class, your instructor will show you how to perfect a natural everyday makeup look, flawless foundation, contouring, wing liner, the smokey eye, and everything in between.
BRIDAL BEAUTY IS BIG BUSINESS! 💍
From NYC’s non-stop wedding scene to destination “I do’s” around the world, bridal makeup is one of the most lucrative and rewarding paths in the industry. And guess what? You could be the artist behind the next dream bridal look! 👰💕
These STUNNING bridal glam moments? Just a few of the looks created by our talented students in the Beauty & Bridal and Master Makeup Artistry Programs!
Our students don’t just learn makeup—they master long-wear techniques, global bridal trends, and business strategies to thrive in the bridal industry.
🚨 April classes are enrolling now! 🚨 Whether you need weekday, weekend, or weeknight options, we’ve got you covered—giving you plenty of time to graduate and start booking 2025 brides! 💰👑
📢 If you’ve been dreaming of a career in bridal beauty, now’s the time! DM us or hit the link in bio to secure your spot! 💌✨
#BridalMakeupArtist #MakeupSchoolNYC #MUAInTraining #WeddingGlam #BridalBeauty #brides #bridalmakeup #bridalmakeupclass #nycwedding #nycweddinghairstylist
Models and artists comment for a tag!
Photography @natureofportraits @emilkovich
April and May photoshoot model and grad registration dates are open at the Model Registration Link in our bio!
#makeup #model #modelsearch #modelcall #nycmodel #nycmodels #nycmodelsearch #actorcall #nycactor #nycsfx
We couldn’t wait to see the final images from @yewandelawalofficial portfolio shoots!
“As a makeup artist who recently moved from nigeria to the United States I wanted to expand my skills beyond brown skin and become confident working on every skin tone. To take my artistry to the next level, I enrolled in the Makeup Academy Master Program in NYC — and it was hands down the best decision ever! From mastering makeup techniques and sanitation to learning the history of beauty, the experience was incredible. The instructors were fantastic, my classmates became amazing friends, and I felt truly welcomed. I’m so proud of this journey and couldn’t be happier with the decision to invest in my growth!” - Yewande
We are so proud of Yewande and look forward to our next success story! Will it be you?!
Call to learn more 332-334-8848
#makeuplover #makeupschool #nycmakeupartist #nycmua #newyorkmakeupacademy #makeupschoolnyc
Julianna is a beauty and special effects makeup artist from Colorado Springs, CO, with over six years of experience in the makeup industry. She attended Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles, CA, where she honed her craft and graduated in 2019. Known for her versatile skills and artistic vision, she has had the privilege of working on high-profile projects for clients such as LA Times Today, Bape Clothing, Comedy Central, Tommy Hilfiger, and Rocky Mountain Bride.
In addition to her freelance work, she spent five years as both a makeup artist and educator with The Day Colorado, a well-respected bridal hair and makeup company, where she honed her skills in creating flawless bridal looks while sharing her knowledge with others in the industry.
Her passion lies in transforming people into their most beautiful or even most grotesque versions of themselves. Whether she’s enhancing natural beauty or creating hauntingly realistic special effects, Julianna thrives on pushing the boundaries of makeup artistry and bringing her clients’ visions to life. With a deep love for both glamour and gore, she continues to inspire and elevate the industry.
We are thrilled to have Julianna with us as our newest educator. Her passion and creativity add so much to the student experience and we look forward to seeing her grow our FX program and continuing to teach in our Makeup courses!
Join us in saying 👋 to @juliannacmakeup and if you had her class already, share your fav memories @makeupschoolnyc
Congrats to this group of PRO Makeup Artists who graduated and showcased all they learned in their photoshoot last night! We couldn’t be more proud!
Thanks @oslaywemua @juliannacmakeup @zully.nycbeauty @makeupkweenk for leading this group and @natureofportraits!
@saramarie_beauty @tylermua1 @ruthaal @amandasky30_mua @the_artist_josh.mua
Get Involved
Submit Your Model Portfolio Today
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Jumpstart Your Hair & Makeup Artist Career
Student Benefits
Pro Cards & Discounts
Upon graduation, we provide alumni with resources to apply for PRO Card Applications. Any discount percentages are at the sole discretion of the brand vendors alone. The Makeup Academy has no authority or responsibility regarding anything beyond.
The Makeup Academy NYC has created a convenient checklist of brands that offer pro memberships. If you find a brand that you really love and see that it’s not on this list, please let us know! In addition, feel free to contact us for a digital copy.
