New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4)
Beauty & Personal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain a solid foundation to begin your career in beauty therapy by studying a broad range of beauty treatments, cosmetic services, and essential professional topics.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Otago Polytechnic Dunedin Campus, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Apply a broad range of beauty treatments and cosmetic services
Demonstrate proficiency in delivering facial, make-up, cosmetic, nail, waxing, and massage treatments to clients.
Understand anatomy and physiology related to beauty therapy
Gain foundational knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as related to the practice of beauty therapy.
Demonstrate professional practice and client care
Apply professional standards, manage appointments, and deliver customer service in a clinic setting.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4) provides learners with the practical and theoretical skills required to work in the beauty industry. The programme covers facial treatments, make-up, cosmetic enhancements, nail care, waxing, massage, anatomy and physiology, professional practice, and in-clinic experience with real clients. Optionally, students can sit ITEC examinations for international qualification recognition. Graduates will be qualified to work as Registered New Zealand Beauty Therapists, cosmetic representatives, or mobile beauty therapists.
Course Content
- Anatomy and physiology
- Facial treatments
- Make-up services
- Cosmetic enhancements
- Massage treatments
- Professional practice
- Nail services
- Waxing services
- Clinic experience
What you need to know first
At least 18 years old by programme end (November).
Applicants under 20 years: NZ Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) OR NCEA Level 2 (English and Science credits preferred) OR NZ Certificate in Makeup and Skin Care (Level 3) OR equivalent.
No minimum requirements for students over 20 years.
Non-native English speakers: New Zealand University Entrance OR Academic IELTS 5.5 (no band below 5.0), or equivalent evidence accepted.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Beauty
Cosmetics
Personal Care
Future employment opportunities might be
Registered New Zealand Beauty Therapist
Cosmetic Representative
Mobile Beauty Therapist
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.