New Zealand Diploma in Beauty Therapy (Level 5)

Beauty & Personal Care

A course by

Otago Polytechnic

Extend your beauty skills and knowledge from beginner to advanced levels with Otago Polytechnic's Level 5 Beauty Therapy Diploma. Learn advanced treatments, use state-of-the-art technology, and study the science behind beauty with practical, hands-on experience.

NZ$26,565

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing

Otago Polytechnic

This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 5 Certification (120 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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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

This course requires 36 hours per week

Core skills this course teaches

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Apply advanced skincare techniques

Gain skills in advanced skin care using the latest beauty industry tools and technology.

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Perform advanced hair removal treatments

Learn and apply modern hair removal techniques, including electrical epilation.

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Provide specialist spa and massage therapies

Deliver results-driven spa and massage treatments for various client needs.

What You're Signing Up For

This advanced, practical diploma extends beauty therapy skills and knowledge from beginner to advanced, including state-of-the-art facilities and new technologies such as radio frequency, Mesowave, LED, and hydro dermabrasion. Students learn advanced skincare, hair removal, spa and massage therapy, anatomy and cosmetic chemistry, business management, and applied clinical practice. The programme is approved by ITEC (International Therapy Examination Council) and aims to prepare graduates for a range of industry roles or to run their own business.

Course Content

  • Beauty Therapy Science: Anatomy, physiology and basic cosmetic chemistry
  • Advanced Hair Removal: Electrical epilation techniques and current trends
  • Electrical Facial Therapy: Practical techniques and industry innovations
  • Advanced Skin Care: Practical skin treatments with a focus on current industry needs
  • Electrical Body Therapy: Application to client needs
  • Spa and Massage Therapy: Application of spa and massage techniques
  • Applied Beauty Therapy Practice: Business management and practical skills in a simulated salon

What you need to know first

New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4), or equivalent skills and knowledge

First Aid Certificate (US 6400, 6401, and 6402, or equivalent)

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Beauty Therapy

  • Personal Care

  • Spa Therapy

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Beauty Therapist

  • Spa Therapist

  • Skin Therapist

  • Electrologist

  • Resort or Cruise Liner Therapist

  • Beauty retail roles

  • Self-employed/Beauty Therapy business owner

Otago Polytechnic

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.