Course Options
5th Jan 2027 - 11th Jun 2027
Mode of study: Full-time
Years: 1
Location: City Campus
What if All My Course Choices Are Full?
If one of your course choices is full, we'll put you on the waiting list and progress your second choice.
If all your course choices are full and you want to be considered for something else or need advice, please contact us.
Email: applications@cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk
Telephone: 0141 375 5191
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If you have any questions about applying for our courses, please contact our Application Team at
Email: applications@cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk
Telephone: 0141 375 5191
Overview
This beginner-level, fast track course, is designed to introduce you to the essential skills and knowledge required to start a career in the beauty industry. You’ll gain hands-on experience in key beauty therapy treatments while developing an understanding of professional standards, client care, and workplace readiness.
Minimum entry requirements
Three National 4 qualifications; OR
NPA Cosmetology; OR
Other equivalent qualifications or experience.
Due to European Directive you must be 16 years of age by 5 January 2027 to undertake this course. You must provide a strong personal statement on your application.
Additional selection requirements
- 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
What you study
- Make-Up Fundamentals & Face Painting: Learn basic make-up techniques, product knowledge, skin preparation, and natural look application, progressing on to bridal and evening looks. Creative face painting skills using colour, symmetry & blending and delivering simple character and festival designs.
- Manicure, Gel Polish & Nail Art: Shape, file, prepare the nail, and apply polish wet and gel polishes as well as basic nail art, while maintaining hygiene and client comfort.
- Skin Care: Develop core facial skills, including double cleansing, skin analysis and mask application.
- Health & Safety in the Salon: Understand hygiene practices, safe working methods, and compliance with industry standards.
- Influences on Mental Health & Wellbeing: Gain insight into client wellbeing, communication, and creating a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Preparing to Progress: Build confidence, explore career pathways, and develop the study and employability skills needed for further training.
You’ll also study units designed to support you in the salon and will work on live clients. College-certified taster courses in massage and spa treatments are also included in the course. You must be willing to take part in all treatments taught on the course. Through treatment practice sessions, you'll gain experience and confidence working with clients.
After the course
This course prepares you with an excellent range of skills for a career in a junior role within the ever-expanding beauty sector.
Continuing Study
Students can apply for NQ Beauty Therapy (SCQF Level 6), NQ Complementary and Spa Therapies (SCQF Level 6), NQ Make-up Artistry (SCQF Level 6).
How the course is taught
The course is a blend of both theory and practical subjects. Committed to helping you achieve your full potential, the teaching team employ a wide range of blended teaching methods to ensure that you are engaged at all levels of study and are supported in every aspect of your educational experience.
Students undertaking this course must be keen to learn about the beauty industry and have treatments done as well as deliver them. All practical skills are taught and practiced on each other prior to clients being provided for treatments.
This is a full-time, fast track course with additional home study, it runs 5 days a week from January to June. Excellent attendance is required and keenness to both deliver and receive treatments is essential.
Materials
A kit and uniform is required for this course. Information will be provided once successful students have accepted their place and are pre-enrolled. All other materials for the course will be provided.
Dress code
For practical class, the College approved uniform must be worn, with suitable footwear - details will be supplied. Longer hair must be tied back, no jewelry on hands or arms, and nails must be short and unvarnished.