Free Level 2 Beauty Therapy Course in Birmingham – University College Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Beauty Specialist Techniques Course in Birmingham. Classes run at University College Birmingham, full-time during the day, over one year. You'll cover core beauty techniques including skincare, manicure, pedicure, and waxing, learning in the college's training salons which are open to the public. A work placement is included, giving you hands-on experience in the industry alongside your studies. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.

Who this course is for

Fascinated by fashion and the latest trends? Do you love the idea of making people look great and feel their best? Beauty therapy is a glamorous and booming business, and our Beauty Therapy college course will equip you with the skills you need to launch a thriving career in the industry.

Available over two levels, this course will give you the practical grounding you need to enter a career in the sector or move on to further study. Beauty Therapy Level 2 provides you with the skills to work with confidence in a beauty salon, covering essential techniques such as facial skincare, manicure/pedicure and waxing. Beauty Therapy Level 3 then advances your skills and knowledge for higher-level work, with opportunities around the world such as on cruise ships, luxury spas and resorts.

Throughout the course, you will be learning in a practical working environment within our superb training/commercial salons at University College Birmingham. You will also have the chance to put your skills to the test in the real world by attending a work placement in the industry, providing a real boost to your career prospects once you complete your studies.

Entry requirements

Please refer to the University College Birmingham course page for specific entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll practise skincare treatments including facial techniques
  • You'll carry out manicure and pedicure services to a professional standard
  • You'll perform waxing treatments safely and correctly
  • You'll develop client consultation and communication skills
  • You'll learn health, safety, and hygiene standards for a salon environment
  • You'll apply your skills in a commercial salon setting during your work placement

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in the college's training salons. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course and includes practical observations, where an assessor watches you carry out treatments, alongside written assignments and knowledge tests. Your work placement also forms part of the overall assessment.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University College Birmingham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Beauty therapist: carry out skincare, waxing, and nail treatments in a salon
  • Nail technician: specialise in manicure, pedicure, and nail art services
  • Salon assistant: support therapists and build experience in a professional setting
  • Spa therapist: work in hotel or day spa environments delivering beauty treatments
  • Waxing specialist: focus on hair removal services in a salon or clinic

What you could study next

  • VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy: the natural next step, covering advanced treatments and opening doors to roles in luxury spas, cruise ships, and resorts worldwide.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy: if you want to specialise in body treatments.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training: if you'd like to teach beauty therapy in the future.

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