This course is subject to validation. You can still apply for this course while it is being approved.
University College Birmingham has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
OVERVIEW Our Aesthetics degree offers a comprehensive exploration of the theories and principles underpinning the rapidly evolving field of non-surgical aesthetics, making it ideal for both therapists and non-therapists alike. Designed to equip you with a broad range of transferable skills, this programme will deepen your understanding of the scientific, cultural, and ethical frameworks shaping the aesthetics industry. As demand for a qualified, knowledgeable workforce in the non-surgical aesthetic market continues to rise, this degree presents a unique opportunity to engage with the theoretical foundations of aesthetics in a dynamic academic environment at UCB. Throughout the course, you will examine core theoretical concepts in areas such as the science of skincare, skin health, ageing theories, and the physiological processes that inform cosmetic interventions. While practical applications, such as laser and light technologies or chemical peels, are integrated into the curriculum, the emphasis is on developing a critical understanding of the science, ethics, and principles behind these procedures. The programme encourages you to reflect on the socio-cultural implications of aesthetic practices and their impact on individual identity and well-being. In addition to theoretical study, you will engage with industry professionals and experts through conferences, guest speakers, mentorship opportunities, and networking events, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the sector. You will also have the chance to participate in educational trips, including an exclusive visit to the Mesoestetic laboratory and production facility in Spain, further enriching your academic and professional development. WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?
- Specialise your studies – Our course is designed with two pathways – training or business – with optional modules based on your choice of pathway
- Industry links – We work closely with leading brands including Lynton, Mesoestetic, Neostrata, Canfield VISIA and Observ to ensure our course content is up-to-date
- Residential visit – Learn first-hand about the industry on a visit to the Mesoestetic production facility in Barcelona, Spain
- Enrichment – Explore the industry through competitions, guest speakers and additional training programmes
- Practical application – Gain experience and expertise by participating in clinic sessions, case studies, practical workshops and demonstrations, as well as developing showcase portfolios
- Work placement (BA only) – Put your training into practice on an optional paid 48-week work placement, with no tuition fees during your placement year
- Award-winning university – Study at the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023)
- Business development manager
- Brand trainer
- Global education and training manager
- Area sales manager
- Aesthetic clinic manager
- Academy manager
- For updates please refer to our website www.ucb.ac.uk
Modules
YEAR 1
- Chemical Peeling for Skin Rejuvenation
- Aesthetic Principles and Consultation
- Laser and Light Technologies
- Non-Invasive Interventions
- Venture Incubator
- The Coaching Concept
- The Aetiology of Aging
- Empowering Leadership
- Interventions for Skin Rejuvenation
- Critical Approaches to Research Methods in Aesthetic Practice
- Science of Skincare
- The Training Cycle
- Venture Concept and Planning
- Aesthetic Identity
- Global Wellness
- Sustainability in Aesthetics
- Dissertation
- Venture Creator
- Digital Skills and Social Media Marketing
Assessment method
Note: Indicative information only. Actual timetables and assessment regimes will be issued at your induction. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to our website: www.ucb.ac.uk 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 – 3 - 6 hours
- Tutorials –1 - 3 hours
- Coursework – 68%
- Practical assessment – 23%
- Written examinations – 9%
How to apply
29Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- W210
- Institution code:
- B35
- Campus name:
- University College Birmingham
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
Entry requirements for advanced entry (i.e. into Year 2 and beyond)
Transferring from another university At University College Birmingham, we consider applications from students who have studied, or are currently studying, a Higher Education course and now wish to transfer universities. What do I need to do? To make an enquiry about studying at University College Birmingham, you will need to complete our online enquiry form -> https://portal.ucb.ac.uk/#/admissions/ucb-direct-apply Consideration for advanced entry will be dependent on the modules of your previous course, and how well this matches to the content of the course you wish to transfer to at University College Birmingham. Additionally, the process will be dependent on the number of credits achieved on your current course. Where similar study is apparent, it may be possible for us to award Recognition of Previous Learning (RPL) and, therefore, advanced entry onto a course at UCB will be permitted. Please note; due to the nature of this process, all applications are considered on an individual basis.
International applicants
All non-EU international students can apply directly via our online application forms: https://portal.ucb.ac.uk/#/admissions/direct-application/intro Undergraduate applicants can also apply via UCAS, if they wish to apply to more than one university. The International Admissions team aim to respond to any new application made directly via the online application form within 5 working days of receipt. However, this can vary during peak application periods (particularly January-March) or if the team require additional information to process your application. Applicants who apply to transfer to University College Birmingham on to a second year or final year of a course will have their previous course matched for entry. Each application is considered individually and careful consideration is given to all information on your application form. We may also need to contact you regarding your immigration status or previous studies in the UK.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 80 - 96 points
A level - CCC - CDD
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMM - MMP
Access to HE Diploma - D: 15 credits
Scottish Higher
HNC (BTEC) - P
HND (BTEC) - P
T Level - P
Year 1 Entry: Students who are studying a combination of different qualification types will receive an offer that will be inclusive of all Level 3 qualifications. Advanced Entry: If you are unsure if your previous higher education qualification is suitable please contact us before completing an application, you can call us on 0121 604 1040 or email: [email protected]
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge English Advanced | Level B2 | BA/BSc - Minimum 170 with no less than 160 in any skill FdA/FdSc - Minimum 160 with no less than 150 in any skill |
| IELTS (Academic) | BA/BSc - Overall score of 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in each component FdA/FdSc - Overall score of 5.5 with no less than 5.0 in each component | |
| Institution's Own Test | BA/BSc - Overall score of B2 with no less than B2- in in each component FdA/FdSc - Overall score of B2- with no less than B1+ in in each component |
To apply for all undergraduate degrees, if your first language is not English, you will need to sit an approved test in English.
UCB English Language Requirements
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Republic of Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| EU | £13500 | Year 1 |
| International | £13500 | Year 1 |
| England | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9250 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
UK:
If you are a UK student enrolling on a Foundation Degree or a BA/BSc at University College Birmingham in 2021/22, your fee for this academic year will be £9,250. A half year tuition fee is £4625.
This is a yearly fee, and will increase with inflation in subsequent years (in line with the government’s permitted rise).
If you are an English student studying your first higher education qualification, you can apply for a tuition fee loan from the Student Loans Company. You will not start repaying this loan until you leave the course and are earning over £25,000 a year.
If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you should apply to Student Finance Wales, Student Finance Northern Ireland, or SAAS. The loans and grants available to you will differ from those available from Student Finance England.
UCB does not charge for 24 or 48 week placements.
More information about UK Fees please go to our website here -
https://www.ucb.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/undergraduate-fees/
EU and International:
More information about International Fees please go to our website here - https://www.ucb.ac.uk/our-courses/international/tuition-fees-and-scholarships.aspx
Provider information
University College Birmingham
Summer Row
Birmingham
B3 1JB