Entry requirements
A level
UCB will accept A Level in General Studies for this course and will also take into consideration applicants who are studying an extended project.
You will need a minimum of 56 UCAS Tariff points
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
This can be achieved from either an Extended Diploma or a combination of smaller BTEC qualifications.
You will need a minimum of 56 UCAS Tariff points
UCAS Tariff
Non-electrotherapy - You will have previously studied electrotherapy as part of a Level 3 qualification. Level 3 qualifications are accepted at UCB for entrance, a minimum of 96 UCAS Tariff points will be required. If you are unsure if your qualification is accepted call us on 0121 604 1040 or email [email protected]
About this course
**Course snapshot**
As non-surgical and non-invasive aesthetic treatments have grown ever more popular in the UK, demand for qualified practitioners has risen to an all-time high. University College Birmingham's Aesthetic Practitioner foundation degree course opens the doors towards a range of reputable and lucrative careers in this fast-growing industry. You will learn and practise a range of techniques in our commercial Aspire Aesthetics clinic on campus, while you will also have the opportunity to network with industry experts.
**Who's the course for?**
Open to therapists and non-therapists alike, our course is ideal for anyone keen to pursue a career in the aesthetics industry, including roles such as laser practitioner, cosmeceutical skincare specialist or clinic director.
**Why should I study this course?**
- **PRACTICAL APPLICATION** – Work with real clients in our state-of-the-art clinic, using the latest equipment from cryotherapy machines to high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)
- **WORK PLACEMENT** – Develop your professional network and gain vital real-world experience on placement during your course
- **ENRICHMENT** – Meet a range of top guest speakers and engage with industry professionals at events such as ACE Conference and Professional Beauty North
**Great! Tell me more**
Our foundation degree course allows you to get hands-on with real paying clients working in our Aspire Aesthetics clinic on campus, enabling you to put your training into practice using the latest technology and equipment. The clinic features cutting-edge technology including Motus AY and Lumina lasers, Observ 520 and a range of multi-platform, non-surgical and non-invasive face and body equipment, as well as the latest UV and ultrasonic sterilisation technology. We have three clinically-controlled laser rooms and three consultation rooms operating comprehensive client management software, while we use a variety of cosmeceutical product ranges and treatments from leading brands such as Mesoestetic.
Demonstrating best in practice and providing reassurance to students and clients alike, University College Birmingham adheres to Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) and Cosmetic Practice Standards Authority (CPSA) guidelines.
**What skills will I gain?**
You will master a variety of non-surgical and non-invasive procedures including laser treatments, intense pulsed light, chemical peeling and skin needling.
You will also learn how to use the latest highly-specialised equipment, from cryotherapy machines (fat freezing) to high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).
By undertaking a placement, you will not only gain essential work experience, but also improve your confidence and depth of knowledge as well as your professional networking skills.
**What about the future?**
This course is an ideal stepping stone towards a range of careers in the flourishing aesthetics and cosmeceutical industry. Potential roles you could explore after graduating include:
- Aesthetic practitioner
- Laser practitioner
- Cosmeceutical skincare specialist
- Treatment or training coordinator
- Business development manager (aesthetic devices)
- Patient treatment coordinator
- Clinic director
Upon completion of the foundation degree, you can also progress onto the final year of our full BA (Hons) degree.
Modules
**YEAR 1**
- Academic Skills
- Physiology of Ageing
- Chemical Peels and Needling
- Aesthetic Technologies in Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation
- The Aesthetic Consultation
Plus one pathway module from:
- Electrotherapy in Aesthetic Practice
- Non-Invasive Aesthetic Procedures
**YEAR 2**
- Aesthetic Business Operations
- Work Based Practice in Aesthetics
- Science of Skincare
- Clinical Aesthetic Procedures
- Advancements in Technologies
- Critical Approach to Research Methods in Aesthetic Practice
Assessment methods
**Note:** Indicative information only – actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction.
**Teaching**
Example of a typical teaching week (up to 16 contact hours):
- **Large group teaching** – 4-6 hours
- **Smaller group teaching** – 2-3 hours
- **Hands-on learning in the clinic** – 4-8 hours
- **Tutorials** – 2-3 hours
You will also need to commit around 20 hours per week for individual study time.
**Assessment**
Estimated breakdown of assessment for this degree course:
- **Coursework** – 68%
- **Practical assessment** – 23%
- **Written examinations** – 9%
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2015-2020.
Tuition fees
Select where you currently live to see what you'll pay:
The Uni
University College Birmingham
School of Sports and Creative Studies - FdA/FdSc
What students say
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Most popular A-Levels studied (and grade achieved)
After graduation
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Complementary and alternative medicine
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Top job areas of graduates
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Allied health
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£19k
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