Beauticians and Related Occupations
Up to £22,780 /year
Beauticians and related workers give facial and body beauty treatments, apply cosmetics and dress wigs.
Admissions
Entry Requirements
What You'll Need
- GCSE Grade 3 in English or Maths
- A genuine interest in nail technology as a career
- Successful interview with our team
If you haven't yet achieved Grade 4 in Maths or English, you'll keep working towards them alongside your course.
Explore Related Courses
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 Level 1 Certificate Introduction to the Hair & Beauty Sector VTCT – Beauty
Level 2 Level 2 Diploma Beauty Therapy Studies VTCT
Level 2 Level 2 Diploma in Hair and Media Make-Up Studies
Level 3 Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology
View all Beauty and Make-up courses →
What You'll Learn
Real Nail Tech Skills. Real Client Work.
This course covers manicure treatments, nail enhancements, nail art, and the professional standards that hold it all together. You’ll start with health and safety and client care in a salon environment, then move into the practical treatments themselves. Everything is underpinned by real client work in the Salon at The Hub.
You’ll also cover lash and brow treatments as an additional area. By the end of the year you’ll have the qualification you need to move into a salon role, on to Level 3 Nail Technology, or to start building towards self-employment.
Mandatory units
- Follow health and safety practices in the salon
- Client care and communications in beauty related industries
- Provide manicure treatments
- Provide and maintain nail enhancements
- Provide nail art
Additional units
- Lash treatments
- Brow treatments
How You're Assessed
Assessment Methods
Coursework
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Practical Assessment
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Exams
Formal examinations to test your knowledge and understanding under timed conditions.
Career Destinations
Where This Course Takes You
Hairdressing and Beauty Salon Managers and Proprietors
Up to £46,823 /year
Hairdressing and beauty salon managers and proprietors plan, organise, direct and co-ordinate the activities and resources of hairdressing and nail salons, beauty treatment, pet grooming and similar establishments.
Complementary Health Associate Professionals
Up to £41,116 /year
Complementary health associate professionals use non-mainstream treatments in support of conventional medical treatments.
Your Progression Pathway
- Level 2 Level 2 Certificate in Nail Technology
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Salon at The Hub
As part of your course, you'll work in Salon at The Hub, our professional on-campus salon. Real treatments on paying clients, in a real working environment.
Salon at The Hub
professional on-campus salon with genuine treatments on paying clients.
Masterclasses from industry professionals
workshops and talks that connect your training to how the industry actually works.
Work placements
build confidence and experience in a professional setting.
Real Salon · Real Clients · Real Treatments
Student Voice
“
With the support and opportunities provided by staff and tutors, I developed valuable skills through interview preparation and guidance. This gave me the confidence to go self-employed and enter the beauty industry with assurance in my work.
For Parents & Carers
Supporting Your Child's Journey
Qualifications That Count
These are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listFinancial Support Available
Bursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.
Financial support infoGCSE Support Built In
If your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student support For Careers Advisers
Quick Reference Guide
Level
Level 2
Duration
1 Year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Entry
GCSE Grade 3 in English or Maths
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Exams
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L2 Nail Technology → L3 Nail Technology → Salon employment or self-employment
Ready to Specialise in Nails?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk