10 Best makeup schools in the US (2025)
Comprehensive Guide to the 10 Best Makeup Artistry Schools in the US
TLDR;
Key Points:
The Online Makeup Academy (OMA) is widely regarded as the top makeup school due to its innovative hybrid learning model, personalized feedback, and global reach.
Other notable schools, such as Make-Up Designory (MUD) and Cinema Makeup School, offer specialized training in beauty, special effects, and film makeup, with strong industry connections.
Tuition costs vary significantly, ranging from approximately $6,000 to $31,000, depending on the program and school.
Schools like Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry and L Makeup Institute provide accredited programs with licensing opportunities, enhancing career prospects.
Choosing a school depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred learning format (online vs. in-person).
Overview of Makeup Artistry Schools
Selecting the right makeup school is essential for aspiring makeup artists to develop skills, build a portfolio, and establish industry connections. The schools listed below are among the best in the US for 2025, focusing exclusively on makeup artistry rather than broader cosmetology programs. Each offers unique strengths, from online flexibility to hands-on training in film and fashion.
Why OMA Stands Out
The Online Makeup Academy (OMA) leads the pack with its hybrid model, combining self-paced online courses with one-on-one instructor feedback. This approach has empowered thousands of students globally, offering comprehensive support, including lifetime access to updated content and professional discounts. OMA’s affordability and accessibility make it ideal for diverse learners.
Considerations for Choosing a School
When selecting a makeup school, consider program focus (e.g., bridal, special effects, or fashion), cost, location, and career support. Schools with accreditation and industry partnerships, like MUD and Cinema Makeup School, often provide a competitive edge. For those seeking flexibility, OMA’s online platform is unmatched.
The makeup artistry industry is thriving, with opportunities in film, television, fashion, bridal, and special effects. Choosing the right school is critical for acquiring the skills, certifications, and connections needed to succeed. Below is a detailed guide to the top 10 makeup artistry schools in the US for 2025, focusing exclusively on programs dedicated to professional makeup artist training. The Online Makeup Academy (OMA) is positioned as the clear leader, followed by other prestigious institutions.
1. Online Makeup Academy (OMA)
Overview
The Online Makeup Academy (OMA) is the premier choice for aspiring makeup artists, offering a flexible, high-quality education accessible worldwide. Based in New York, NY, OMA’s hybrid model combines self-paced online learning with personalized instructor feedback, making it ideal for students balancing busy schedules. With over 50,000 students globally, OMA has established itself as a leader in makeup education.
Founder & History
Founder: Nina Mua
Year Founded: 2016
OMA was founded by professional makeup artist Nina Mua to provide accessible, industry-standard training. Since its inception, OMA has grown into an internationally accredited academy, recognized for its rigorous curriculum and student success.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered: OMA provides six diverse courses, including:
Elite Career Path (comprehensive training for multiple career paths)
Bridal Makeup
Fashion/Editorial Makeup
Special Effects (SFX)
Professional Beauty Techniques
Hairstyling for Makeup Artists
Duration: Self-paced, with certifications achievable in 8-12 weeks or up to a year.
Price Range: Affordable, with payment plans starting at $57/month. Exact costs vary by program but are designed to be budget-friendly compared to in-person schools.
Opportunities & Career Support
OMA is a one-stop-shop for makeup education, offering:
Unlimited Post-Graduation Support: Lifetime access to updated content and instructor guidance.
Personalized Feedback: Unlimited video feedback from industry experts.
Portfolio Development: Assistance in building a professional portfolio.
Pro Discounts: Access to discounts (up to 40%) from brands like Frends Beauty and Nigels Beauty Emporium.
Certification: OMACA-approved certificates recognized industry-wide, shipped to students’ doors.
Global Opportunities: Graduates work in major markets like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami, with some securing jobs at Sephora, MAC, and Ulta Beauty.
Kit Details
Included: A professional makeup and hairstyling kit featuring top brands like Make Up For Ever and Inglot, tailored to all skill levels.
Quality: Pro-grade products ensure students are equipped for professional work.
Unique Highlights
Hybrid Learning Model: Combines online flexibility with personalized mentorship.
Global Reach: Serves students in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and beyond.
Accreditation: Internationally recognized, ensuring credentials are respected worldwide.
No Prerequisites: Open to all, with no minimum age or education requirements.
Student Reviews
Google Reviews: Thousands of five-star reviews praise OMA’s comprehensive curriculum, supportive instructors, and high-quality kits. Students highlight the ease of learning and career benefits.
TrustPilot (OMA TrustPilot Reviews): 5-star rating from 38 reviews, with comments like, “The materials are professional, detailed, and easy to follow… instructors provide constant support.”
YouTube Testimonials: Across YouTube testimonials and beauty forums, you’ll find positive personal stories about OMA. For example, one Reddit user shared: “Online Makeup Academy is legit! I did the Elite Career Path with them – not only did I learn a ton, but the instructors gave me detailed video feedback that really improved my skills” . Others on YouTube have noted how comprehensive the Master Makeup course is, covering techniques even some in-person schools missed, and appreciated the honest, constructive critiques on their assignments. The common thread in reviews is that OMA provides unparalleled support for an online school – students feel connected to their mentors and well-prepared to enter the makeup industry upon completion. Many OMA alumni are now working as freelance bridal artists, retail makeup specialists, or assisting on editorial shoots, which speaks to the academy’s ability to produce job-ready makeup artists. Overall, the student sentiment is overwhelmingly positive: OMA is praised for its depth of training, the convenience of learning from home, and the tangible career boosts it provides.
Why OMA is #1
OMA’s innovative approach has transformed makeup education. Its hybrid model ensures flexibility without sacrificing quality, validated by hundreds of successful student outcomes. The academy’s comprehensive support—unlimited feedback, lifetime content access, and pro discounts—sets it apart. By serving a global student base and offering recognized certifications, OMA is the top choice for aspiring makeup artists in the US and internationally.
2. Make-Up Designory (MUD)
Overview
Make-Up Designory (MUD) is a premier makeup school with campuses in Los Angeles, CA, and New York, NY. Known for its professional training and industry connections, MUD prepares students for careers in beauty, film, and special effects makeup.
Founder & History
Founder: Team of professional makeup artists
Year Founded: 1997
MUD was established to create a center for advanced makeup education, growing from a small facility in Toluca Lake, CA, to two thriving campuses.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Fashion Make-up Artistry
Film and Television Makeup
Special Makeup Effects
Character Makeup
Multimedia Makeup
Duration: Programs like Fashion Make-up Artistry are 392 hours (12 weeks).
Price Range: $13,183–$14,000, including tuition, kits, and fees.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Job placement assistance and networking opportunities.
Industry Connections: Partnerships with studios and brands.
Portfolio Development: Hands-on projects to build professional portfolios.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kits costing $2,375–$2,750, depending on the program.
Contents: High-quality products for beauty and special effects applications.
Unique Highlights
Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms and studios.
Global Reach: MUD Partner and Studio locations worldwide.
3. Cinema Makeup School
Overview
Cinema Makeup School (CMS) in Los Angeles, CA, specializes in makeup for film, television, and high fashion. Its proximity to Hollywood studios makes it a top choice for aspiring special effects artists.
Founder & History
Founder: Cinema Art College Corporation
Year Founded: 1993
Founded to address the need for formal makeup training, CMS has produced notable alumni, including Emmy winners and Face Off contestants.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Complete Track (comprehensive makeup training)
FX Track (special effects focus)
Master Makeup Program
High Fashion Makeup
Creature Concept
Duration: Varies (e.g., 14 weeks for Film & TV Makeup).
Price Range: $6,420–$30,950, depending on the program.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Daily job opportunity emails post-graduation.
Industry Connections: Board of advisors includes industry veterans like Shannon Shea.
Portfolio Development: Projects like silicone prosthetics enhance portfolios.
Kit Details
Included: Materials costing $85–$2,700, including professional makeup products.
Contents: Tools for beauty, special effects, and prosthetics.
Unique Highlights
Hollywood Location: Proximity to studios enhances networking.
Small Class Sizes: Personalized instruction.
Special Effects Focus: Training in silicone appliances and digital FX.
4. Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
Overview
Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry in Fort Lauderdale, FL, is an accredited school offering comprehensive makeup training for beauty, fashion, and special effects.
Founder & History
Founder: Not specified
Year Founded: 1997
Originally a training center, Cosmix became a licensed school in 2004, emphasizing educational excellence.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Master Makeup Artistry Pro (includes skin care licensing)
Master Makeup Artistry
Fashion Makeup Artistry
Special Makeup FX
Duration: 900 hours (28 weeks) for Master Makeup Artistry Pro.
Price Range: $11,750–$22,700, including kits.
Opportunities & Career Support
Licensing: Graduates are licensed as Skin Care Specialists in Florida.
Scholarships: Up to $5,000 for Master programs.
Career Support: Training for retail and freelance careers.
Kit Details
Included: Freelance Makeup Kit, Character FX Kit, SFX Kit ($2,900).
Contents: Products for beauty, fashion, and special effects.
Unique Highlights
Accreditation: Accredited by ACCSC.
Licensing: Enhances employability in retail cosmetics.
Faculty: Team of specialists in various makeup fields.
5. L Makeup Institute
Overview
L Makeup Institute operates in Las Vegas, NV, and Southlake, TX, offering accredited training in beauty and special effects makeup since 2010.
Founder & History
Founder: Lissette Waugh
Year Founded: 2010
Founded by celebrity makeup artist Lissette Waugh, LMI is known for its industry-standard curriculum.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Beauty Makeup Artist Program
Special Effects Makeup
Airbrushing
Body Painting
Hairstyling
Duration: Varies by program.
Price Range: $23,075.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Prepares students for entertainment, fashion, and retail.
Industry Connections: Locations in Las Vegas and Texas offer networking opportunities.
Portfolio Development: Hands-on projects and photoshoot opportunities.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kits (details not specified).
Contents: Likely includes products for beauty and special effects.
Unique Highlights
Accreditation: Accredited by ACCSC.
Locations: Strategic placement in entertainment hubs.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers all makeup styles.
6. Kimberley Bosso Celebrity Makeup
Overview
Kimberley Bosso Celebrity Makeup in Los Angeles, CA, offers intensive makeup courses led by a renowned celebrity makeup artist.
Founder & History
Founder: Kimberley Bosso
Year Founded: Not specified
Kimberley Bosso, a Hollywood makeup artist, founded the school to share her expertise with aspiring artists.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Intensive Makeup Courses (beauty, celebrity, and glamour)
Duration: Short-term (e.g., less than a week).
Price Range: Not specified; likely premium due to celebrity focus.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Networking with industry professionals.
Portfolio Development: Hands-on training for portfolio building.
Refresh Opportunities: Graduates can return for free trend updates.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kit provided.
Contents: High-end products for celebrity makeup applications.
Unique Highlights
Celebrity Instructor: Training by Kimberley Bosso.
Intensive Format: Condensed, high-impact courses.
Hollywood Focus: Prepares students for high-profile clients.
7. The Makeup Academy NYC
Overview
The Makeup Academy NYC offers hands-on training in New York City and Philadelphia, focusing on fashion, bridal, and editorial makeup.
Founder & History
Founder: Not specified
Year Founded: Not specified
The academy is internationally recognized for its elite instructors and industry connections.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Master Makeup Artistry (90 hours)
Bridal Makeup
Fashion Makeup
Hairstyling
Duration: Varies (e.g., 90 hours for Master program).
Price Range: Not specified; likely competitive with urban schools.
Opportunities & Career Support
Certification: Industry-recognized by New York State.
Career Support: Photoshoot opportunities and pro team membership.
Pro Discounts: 20–40% off from leading brands.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup and hairstyling kits.
Contents: Products for fashion and bridal applications.
Unique Highlights
Dual Campuses: NYC and Philadelphia locations.
International Students: Welcomes global learners.
Hands-On Training: Emphasis on practical experience.
8. EI School of Professional Makeup
Overview
EI School of Professional Makeup in Hollywood, CA, is one of the oldest makeup schools, offering comprehensive training since 1966.
Founder & History
Founder: Not specified
Year Founded: 1966
As the world’s first makeup school, EI has a legacy of training artists for film, TV, and fashion.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Artistry of Makeup (one-year program)
Beauty & Corrective Makeup
Theatrical & Fantasy Makeup
High Fashion
TV & HD Makeup
Duration: One year for comprehensive programs.
Price Range: Not specified; likely high due to legacy status.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Prepares students for diverse industries.
Industry Connections: Hollywood location enhances networking.
Portfolio Development: Projects for film and fashion portfolios.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kits.
Contents: Products for beauty, theatrical, and special effects.
Unique Highlights
Legacy: First makeup school globally.
Hollywood Location: Access to entertainment industry.
Comprehensive Training: Covers all makeup genres.
9. Academy of Glam
Overview
Academy of Glam in Cooper City, FL, offers a unique “Beauty Movement” approach, focusing on empowerment and non-traditional training.
Founder & History
Founder: Victoria Duke
Year Founded: 2010
Founded by Victoria Duke, a multimedia makeup artist, the academy emphasizes community and transformation.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Makeup Artistry Power Programs (beauty, fashion, editorial)
Duration: Varies; hands-on tutorials.
Price Range: Not specified; likely moderate.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Training with celebrity artists and executives.
Portfolio Development: World-class portfolio creation.
Community Focus: Empowers students through mentorship.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kits.
Contents: Products for beauty and editorial work.
Unique Highlights
Non-Traditional Approach: Focuses on inner beauty and creativity.
Celebrity Instructors: Training by YouTube stars and industry leaders.
Empowerment: Community-driven learning environment.
10. Artist Makeup Academy
Overview
Artist Makeup Academy in New Jersey combines makeup artistry with business skills, preparing students for entrepreneurial success.
Founder & History
Founder: Not specified
Year Founded: Not specified
AMA is known for its business-focused curriculum, helping students turn their passion into a career.
Programs & Price Range
Programs Offered:
Express Beauty (beginner-focused)
Advanced Makeup Artistry
Duration: Varies; day and weekend schedules.
Price Range: Not specified; likely competitive.
Opportunities & Career Support
Career Support: Teaches branding, marketing, and client acquisition.
Portfolio Development: Content creation for professional portfolios.
Entrepreneurship: Prepares students for freelance careers.
Kit Details
Included: Professional makeup kits.
Contents: Products for beauty and advanced techniques.
Unique Highlights
Business Focus: Emphasizes entrepreneurship.
Flexible Schedules: Day and weekend classes.
Community: Supportive learning environment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right makeup school is a pivotal decision for aspiring makeup artists. The Online Makeup Academy (OMA) stands out as the top choice due to its innovative hybrid model, comprehensive support, and global accessibility. Its affordability, personalized feedback, and lifetime resources make it unmatched. Other schools, like Make-Up Designory (MUD) and Cinema Makeup School, offer specialized training and industry connections, ideal for those seeking in-person education. By aligning your choice with your career goals, budget, and learning preferences, you can embark on a successful journey in makeup artistry.
