Makeup Artist Schools in Oklahoma

Welcome to our site! On this page, we'll take a look at the places in Oklahoma--that is, the types of schools--where you can learn makeup artistry skills, either as a hobby, or as the start of a makeup artist career.

Makeup Artist Schools are an incredible option if you want to truly learn the ins-and-outs of makeup. Classes don't focus on any other aspect of beauty--just makeup. You'll learn how to determine the best look for a model or bride or actor; how to pair colors using color theory; how to make sure clients look good for flash photography (this is actually difficult, and VERY important); how to develop your professional portfolio and use it to get new work; and, of course, application methods for every type of makeup. Makeup schools are a FANTASTIC way to start a career in makeup.

Cosmetology Colleges (aka, Beauty Schools) provide a less-detailed-but-more-"generalist" education. Instead of diving into makeup and *only* makeup, you'll learn how to style hair in different ways; how to change the shape, curliness, and/or straightness of hair; how to perform manicures and take care of cuticles; how to set up skin care routines for clients, and how to properly clean the skin; and how to apply makeup to different skin tones and facial shapes.

Makeup Classes from Professional Makeup Artists. If you're not up for full-time or part-time classes, here's a marvelous option: contact one or two local makeup artists, and ask for personal lessons. In a one-on-one coaching scenario, you'll be able to ask for any kind of instruction you want (ie, want to learn about the details of doing bridal makeup? Just ask!), AND you'll be able to get the insider scoop on what it's like to be a makeup artist in your area. We always recommend formal training, but private classes are a great way to learn about the career aspect of being a makeup artist.

One-Off Courses. There are plenty of one-day or two-day classes offered by professional makeup artists. These usually take place in a conference room at a hotel or a convention center, or even at a local community college or salon. You'll find beginner topics and advanced topics, and you'll be able to sign up for whatever course seems interesting. Check sites like Meetup and Yelp for upcoming classes. Most of the classes will be in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, but you may also find some classes in Broken Arrow, Norman, Lawton, and other metropolitan places.

There's one other option which shouldn't be overlooked, and that's online tutorials/online how-tos. We're not kidding when we say that there are thousands of online instructional videos out there. Some of them really, really bad, but some of them are fantastic, and can help you dramatically. To help you out, we've written some "Best Of" posts to help you find the best tutorials.

Which Is Your Best Option?​

There are pros and cons to each of the above options, and different types of classes suit different types of people. Let's go into the details, and see what kind of class might be right for you.

Makeup Schools: If you want to become a real-deal makeup artist, they're a great option. They can be very expensive, though, and because there aren't too many of them in the United States, you may need to relocate for a little while if you want to attend one. It's important to note, also, that makeup artist schools don't enable you get an Oklahoma license after you graduate (and we'll discuss that further in a minute).

Cosmetology Schools: The only negative aspect of beauty schools is that you won't develop a deep understanding of makeup. However, these are a tried-and-true method of gaining entry into the beauty business, and after you graduate, you WILL be able to apply for a cosmetologist license. Also, having a cosmetology degree can help set you apart from other artists who don't have any formal degree.

Classes from Makeup Artists: These are a lot of fun! They won't fully prepare you for work as a makeup artist, but they are a great way to develop new skills. And, if you get all of your friends together for a class, they can be a social event, as well as a learning event.

Workshops: Also a lot of fun! Just like private classes, they're not a great substitute for formal training, but they're a great way to supplement the skills you are already have, AND they'll allow a few day trips into your nearest city.

Should You Get A License?​

In the section above, we talked about licensing. Here's what you'll need to keep in mind:​

Before making any career decisions, we would advise you to check with the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology at (405) 521-2441. They are, ultimately, the agency that enforces Oklahoma laws related to the beauty industry, so you'll want to make sure you're level with them before moving ahead in any career.

Training in Oklahoma​

There are two makeup artist schools in Oklahoma.

They are:​