Diploma of Beauty Therapy
Diploma · 1.5–2 years
Coded SHB50121, the Diploma of Beauty Therapy is the most advanced beauty qualification under the personal services training package. It covers advanced facials, body treatments, electrical aesthetics, makeup, lash and brow services, and the business skills needed to manage a salon.
What’s covered
- Advanced facial treatments, including peels and microdermabrasion
- Body treatments and massage techniques
- Electrical aesthetics and equipment
- Makeup, lash, and brow services
- Skin analysis and consultation
- Salon operations and small-business management
Visa and migration pathway
Beauty Therapist appears on regional skilled-migration occupation lists in some states. The Diploma is the qualification level that supports professional registration with most industry associations.
Career outcomes
Diploma-qualified beauty therapists typically work as senior therapists in day spas, clinics or salons, with a meaningful number eventually opening their own business given the salon-management content built into the course. The advanced treatment scope (electrical aesthetics, peels, microdermabrasion) qualifies graduates for a wider range of client services than a Certificate-level qualification alone, which generally translates into higher earning potential and more senior positions within a salon. Since beauty therapist only appears on certain regional skilled-migration lists rather than the national list, students specifically targeting migration outcomes should research the current regional lists carefully for their intended state, rather than assuming eligibility applies everywhere.
How to choose a provider
Look at how much hands-on client-facing practice each provider offers, since this qualification is built on a large volume of practical treatment skills. TAFE NSW runs on-campus client clinics where students treat real paying customers under supervision, which builds genuine confidence and a portfolio of real client work. Holmesglen’s industry-led model weaves in sales and salon-business modules alongside treatment skills, useful if you’re aiming to eventually run your own business rather than just work as an employed therapist. If migration is part of your plan, discuss your target state’s specific regional occupation list with the provider’s international student office before enrolling. Confirm current tuition fees directly with whichever provider you shortlist.
Entry requirements
- Year 11 or equivalent
- IELTS 5.5 (or institute equivalent)