Beauty Therapy HND
(SCQF level 8)
Beauty and Complementary Therapies, Hospitality and Leisure
Mode of Study
Full-time
Start Date
24th Aug 2026, 2 years
Location
City Campus
Applications from International Students Welcome
Overview
The course offers a high-level beauty qualification that will provide you with knowledge of current beauty treatments, product ranges and techniques. An employment driven focus throughout all aspects of the course ensures that you are employment ready and have great success in developing careers within the ever-expanding beauty sector.
You'll be taught by a highly motivated and versatile team with an excellent range of industrial expertise who deliver world-class student focussed learning.
You will gain hands on expereince by working with real clients, practicing treatments to build confidence, skill and industry level expertise.
Please note, prior beauty knowledge is not essential.
This course is offered with 2 different pathways – one for those with a qualification at NCGA Beauty Care Level 6 and the other for those with no prior beauty but have 2 Highers or equivalent.
You'll receive an HND Beauty Therapy award on successful completion of the course.
This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8.
Entry requirements
Minimum entry requirements
No prior beauty qualification pathway
- Two Highers at Grade C or above; OR
- NC Level 6 or HNC/D in any subject area; OR
- Other equivalent qualifications or experience.
NCGA Beauty Care Level 6 pathway
- NCGA Beauty Care Level 6; OR
- NVQ/SVQ Level 3 Beauty.
If you have an HNC Beauty Therapy, you may be considered for direct entry into HND 2nd year. This will be dependent on the units you hold and places being available.
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 or we'll make an offer based on your application form.
It is important to write a strong personal statement showcasing individuality, suitability and an interest in the beauty inductry. You will be invited to attend an information session to find out more about the course.
ESOL entry requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.
What you study
During your two years, you'll learn:-
- Facial Treatments and chemical peels.
- Body Massage.
- Face and Body Electrotherapy both traditional and advanced taught over 2 years including microdermabrasion, high frequency, microcurrent and light therapy.
- Depilation and Advanced Depilation (including Brazilian and Hollywood wax treatments).
- Manicure & Pedicure.
- Spa Treatments.
- Make-up skills.
- Eyelash and eyebrow artistry.
- Contemporary aesthetic treatments - the treatments change yearly depending on industry trends, but examples of possible treatments are lash lifting treatments, nail techniques, gua sha facial, russian volume lashes, etc.
- Product Knowledge using Thalgo products.
All students must be happy to have the treatments taught within the curriculum carried out on themselves, as well as performing the beauty treatments on others in the class.
After the course
Careers
This course prepares you for a career in the beauty industry, including roles in salons, health spas, cruise ships, or self-employment. A number of senior or managerial posts may also be available to HND qualified therapists.
Continuing Study
Successful students may progress to degree courses in related areas, eg BSc Integrative Healthcare.
Teaching
How the course is taught
This is a full-time course with class and home study, theory and practical assessments, research projects and presentations, self-directed study and group work. It is essential that you plan time in your week for studying.
Committed to helping you achieve your full potential, the 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. You will work on each other during the initial stages of teaching and will then move on to work with clients to improve your practical ability and increase confidence as a beauty therapist. All students must be happy to perform and receive all treatments in the curriculum.
Assessment methods
Practical observations, case studies, assignments, presentations, research tasks, record cards, restricted response questions and reports. You will work on live clients during your time at college and will also be required to model for treatments yourself. Additional study and practice at home will be required.
Additional Information
Materials
A beauty kit and uniform must be purchased for this course, details are given at interview.
Dress code
A kit and uniform are required for this course. Information will be provided once successful students have accepted their place and pre-enrolled.
Dress code - for all practical classes, the college-approved uniform must be worn, with suitable footwear (details will be supplied).
Longer hair must be tied back, no jewellery on hands or arms, and nails must be short and unvarnished.
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Mode of Study:
Full-time
Full-time
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Start Date:
24th Aug 2026, 2 years
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Location:
City Campus
Applications from International Students Welcome