Level 2 Diploma · Full-Time · 1 Year
The Level 2 diploma for make-up specialists. You'll cover make-up application, the art of photographic make-up, and instruction on make-up application across 11 units, all in the Salon at The Hub. Real client work, real technique, and real optional units in lash perming, tanning and nail art to broaden your scope.
11 units centred on make-up, including the art of photographic make-up.
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 Level 1 Certificate Introduction to the Hair & Beauty Sector VTCT – Beauty
Level 1 Level 1 Certificate in an Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector VTCT – Hair
Level 2 Level 2 Diploma Beauty Therapy Studies VTCT
Level 2 Level 2 Certificate in Women’s Hairdressing
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This is an 11-unit Level 2 Diploma that treats make-up as a specialism in its own right. You’ll cover make-up application, facial skincare (because good make-up sits on well-prepared skin), the art of photographic make-up, and instruction on make-up application. Health and safety and client care sit alongside as the professional foundations.
Your optional units let you broaden into lash perming, tanning, lash and brow treatments, salon retail (displaying stock), and nail art. Everything happens in the Salon at The Hub, our professional on-campus salon with real client treatments. By the end you’ll have the qualification and the portfolio to move into salon or freelance make-up work, or on to Level 3.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Formal examinations to test your knowledge and understanding under timed conditions.
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.
Beauticians and related workers give facial and body beauty treatments, apply cosmetics and dress wigs.
Complementary health associate professionals use non-mainstream treatments in support of conventional medical treatments.
The Salon at The Hub is our professional on-campus salon. Real treatments happen here 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.
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.
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 listThese qualifications lead to real jobs. Our courses are built around the skills that employers are actually hiring for — locally and nationally.
See career optionsOur tutors bring real industry experience into the classroom. They teach what's actually used in the world of work, and students consistently say this is what makes the course work.
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 infoLevel
Level 2
Duration
1 Year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Entry
GCSE in English or Maths
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Exams
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L2 Hair and Media Make-Up → L3 Beauty Therapy Treatments (broadening scope)
Route B: Work path: Salon or freelance make-up work
Route C: Self-employment / freelance: Bridal, events, editorial and photographic make-up are all real freelance markets for qualified specialists
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk