Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy (Qualifi) Level 3

Introduction

Welcome to our new course, designed in alignment with QUALIFI’s rigorous standards to provide learners with a realistic, practical, and rewarding pathway for career and professional development. This programme is tailored to support individuals seeking to enhance their vocational skills, enterprise capabilities, and industry knowledge—enabling a direct link to meaningful employment opportunities and long-term success in their chosen sectors.

This course is more than just academic learning—it is a dynamic journey into the heart of how modern businesses operate, adapt, and grow. Grounded in national occupational standards, it equips learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and understanding to enter or progress within the workforce with confidence and competence.

Throughout the course, you will:

  • Explore the structure, strategy, and processes of diverse organisations.
  • Gain insight into the influence of external factors in a fast-evolving global business landscape.
  • Develop analytical and evaluative skills essential for decision-making and innovation.
  • Enhance your understanding of management and leadership principles in real-world contexts.
  • Strengthen your problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication abilities.
  • Reflect on your own development and build transferable skills to support lifelong learning and career progression.


Whether you’re beginning your professional journey or aiming to advance your existing career, this course provides a solid foundation and the flexibility to grow with your ambitions. It’s not just about gaining qualifications—it’s about unlocking your potential.

Course code

JCABQ

Location

Stranraer Campus

Duration

Fulltime attendance is required 2 – 3 days per week for 36 weeks

Entry Requirements

Three National 4 qualifications including English; OR

NPA Cosmetology; OR

Other equivalent qualifications or experience.

Information and Interview Session Requirements

Once we have received your application you will be asked to attend an informal information and interview session.

Learners will be required to attend a face to face interview or a interview on teams video to further discuss your application.You’ll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you’re interested in this subject area.

This is a key aspect of the application process. You must confirm your attendance should you be offered an appointment.

During the information and interview session, we will ensure the entry requirements and your aspirations and career plan are appropriate for the course and the level of course you have applied for. It is therefore important that you prepare well for this.

Course Content

What you will learn

Anatomy and Physiology 
Health, safety and hygiene 
Client consultation 
Manicure treatments 
Pedicure treatments  
Waxing treatments  
Facial skincare treatments  
Lash and brow treatments 
Makeup techniques 

This may be subject to Change.

Assessments

Key Points for Assessment 

Closed book Multiple choice questions paper for assessments for knowledge and understanding. 

Vocational Focus: Assessments are designed to support career progression by reflecting real-world, work-related tasks. 

Holistic Observation: Each unit will be assessed primarily through observations of practical activities, ensuring that the process is realistic and reflective of workplace scenarios. 

Knowledge Demonstration: Learners must demonstrate essential knowledge and understanding that supports their skills practice. This ensures they can deliver services or treatments safely and effectively. 

Action-Based Reflection: Where appropriate, learners will be asked to provide recommendations or action plans, reinforcing their ability to reflect and respond professionally. 

Intellectual Rigor: Assessment tasks will require critical thinking and analysis, with expectations aligned to the academic and professional level of the qualification. 

Progression

This qualification could lead to employment within the Beauty sector and as progression to further training within the chosen subject area within the college.


Explore your future career options. 

With additional qualifications this could include Salon Beauty Therapist/ Spa Therapist/ Self-employed Beauty Therapist/Salon Owner/ Beauty Therapist on board a cruise ship/ Beauty Therapist Trainer/Educator or Nail Technician.

Career Prospects

This course opens up a range of exciting career opportunities by equipping learners with both the practical skills and the professional insight needed to thrive in a dynamic industry environment. 

 Vocational and Technical Roles

Beauty Therapist / Spa Professional  (if linked to wellness/spa industry) 
Skincare Specialist or Massage Therapist 
Health and Wellness Consultant 
Salon or Spa Supervisor / Manager 
 
Transferable Skills for Diverse Sectors 

The course also develops highly transferable skills—communication, problem-solving, organisation, and reflective thinking—which are valued in: 

  • Training or mentoring roles
  • Retail and customer service
  • Hospitality and tourism
  • Health and fitness industries

Additional funding information

You may be eligible for Bursary or EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance) funding for this course. Please contact a member of the funding team for details.

Selling Points

This course is not just a qualification—it’s a launchpad for a thriving career, a stepping stone to leadership, and a platform for personal and professional success.

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