VTCT (iTEC) Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies at York College is a part-time course designed for individuals seeking to progress into advanced aesthetic training at Level 4 and beyond.
Combining Level 2 and 3 units, the program provides essential knowledge in anatomy and physiology, skin analysis, health and safety, science, and client consultation. Delivered through a blended learning model, it offers a flexible learning schedule for adult learners. Prior experience in facial skincare is mandatory. This qualification serves as a stepping stone to advanced aesthetic courses, such as the VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Treatments.
Dates & course durations
September 2026, specific date tbc.
Evenings, 6.00pm-9.00pm.
Entry requirements
Clear interest in the beauty industry (prior experience is an advantage). Students must be capable of conducting their own research and revision outside of set College hours. Students also need a clear understanding of the English language and be able to communicate effectively. Performing a professional facial requires a high level of dexterity and fine motor skills to ensure client comfort, safety and treatment efficacy.
Course units
Maintain Health and Safety in the Salon – This unit focuses on understanding and implementing health and safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for both clients and practitioners.
Skin Analysis and Facial Skincare – Learners need to be able to demonstrate skills knowledge and understanding of this prior to starting the course.
Consultation and Client Care – This unit emphasizes effective communication and consultation techniques to ensure client needs are met and appropriate aftercare advice is provided (as above).
Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology – Students gain comprehensive knowledge of the human body's structure and functions, which is essential for understanding how aesthetic treatments affect different body systems (blended learning).
Electrical Science – This unit introduces the principles of electrical science relevant to beauty therapy equipment, preparing learners for advanced treatments involving electrical modalities (blended learning).
Throughout this qualification, learners will develop their knowledge and understanding of relevant health and safety requirements, anatomy, physiology, and pathology and electrical science, alongside skin analysis and safe practice treatment protocols for facial skin care. Learners will also develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required to consult with clients, and provide specific aftercare and home care advice.
Assessment
The assessment process for the VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies at York College is designed to ensure learners are fully prepared for progression into advanced aesthetic training.
Assessment is ongoing throughout the course and includes:
Theory examinations - externally set and externally marked examination.
The examinations assess knowledge and understanding from the theoretical content of the mandatory units, at the end of the period of learning.
Assessed treatment evidence - externally set and internally marked. Subject to external quality assurance monitoring.
Practical assessment of treatments on clients in the salon.
Course fees
£1500
Contact our Admissions team if you have any course fee-related questions regarding funding eligibility etc: info@yorkcollege.ac.uk
Course progression
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies at York College opens the door to a range of advanced career opportunities within the aesthetics and beauty industry.
Upon completion, students are eligible to progress to higher-level qualifications such as:
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Treatments
This qualification is ideal for those looking to expand their treatment portfolio, work in high-end salons or skin clinics, or eventually open their own aesthetic practice. It also provides a strong foundation for further specialization in non-medical cosmetic procedures.
Study methods
The VTCT Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetics is delivered through a blend of practical and theoretical learning to ensure students develop both the technical skills and underpinning knowledge required for professional practice.
Study methods include:
Practical Training Sessions: Hands-on learning delivered in professional salons and workshops, where students practise techniques under the expert guidance and supervision.
Classroom-Based Theory: In-depth classroom sessions covering consultation techniques, anatomy and physiology, health and safety, and aftercare procedures.
Client Case Studies: Real client consultations and treatment planning to build confidence and competence in providing tailored services.
Independent Study: Assignments and research tasks completed outside of class to reinforce theoretical understanding.
Assessment: Continuous assessment through practical observations, written assignments, and portfolio development.
This structured, hands-on approach prepares students to deliver safe, effective, and personalised treatments in real-world settings.
Facilities
York College offers outstanding facilities designed to support and inspire students in the Hair, Beauty, and Media Make-up industries.
The Hair & Beauty department includes two large, fully equipped hairdressing salons and four professional-standard beauty therapy salons, providing realistic commercial environments for students to refine their skills. Due to the success of higher-level Beauty Therapy qualifications, an additional advanced clinic will be introduced in September 2026.
A welcoming commercial salon reception area enhances the professional experience, while three dedicated media make-up workshops provide creative spaces equipped with industry-standard tools and products.
Beyond the department, students benefit from the wider college’s excellent facilities, including the modern Learning & Research Centre, quiet study hubs, well-equipped IT areas, multi-function printers, and expert on-site support services—creating an ideal environment for both academic and practical success.
Additional costs
Students will need to purchase the salon Inspired T shirt – cost to be confirmed (approximately £15). They will need to wear their own plain, smart black trousers and flat black shoes that fully support the foot (not trainers, boots or sandals).
Career progression
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies at York College opens the door to a range of advanced career opportunities within the aesthetics and beauty industry.
Upon completion, students are eligible to progress to higher-level qualifications such as the VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Treatments, Micropigmentation, Skin Needling, Skin Peeling and Radio Frequency.
This qualification is ideal for those looking to expand their treatment portfolio, work in high-end salons or skin clinics, or eventually open their own aesthetic practice. It also provides a strong foundation for further specialization in non-medical cosmetic procedures.
VTCT Level 2 NVQ Award in Providing Manicure Services
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Evening
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
13 Weeks
Level
Level 2
VTCT Level 2 Award in Facial Massage & Skincare
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
April 2027
Duration
14 Weeks
Level
Level 2
VTCT Level 2 Award in Eyelash & Eyebrow Treatments
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Evening
Start Date
January 2027
Duration
12 Weeks
Level
Level 2
Beauty Therapy Diploma VRQ Level 3
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
36 Weeks
Level
Level 3
Beauty Therapy VRQ Level 2
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 2
VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy
University Centre
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 4
VTCT (iTEC) Level 5 Certificate in Non-surgical Aesthetic Procedures for Skin Rejuvenation
University Centre
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
October 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 5
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
February 2027
Duration
17 Weeks
Level
Level 4
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency Treatments
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
May 2026
Duration
5 Days
Level
Level 4
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Treatments
University Centre
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 4
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
5 Days
Level
Level 4
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
10 Weeks
Level
Level 4
City & Guilds Level 3 VRQ Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 3
Level 2 City & Guilds Diploma in Hairdressing
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Evening
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 2
Level 2 City & Guilds Certificate in Barbering
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 2
City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate Hairdressing & Barbering
Courses for Adults
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Evening
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
35 Weeks
Level
Level 1
BA (Hons) Media Make-up, Special Effects & Hair Design (Top-up)
University Centre
Courses for Adults
York School of Art
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
1 Year (2 days per week)
Level
Level 6
Foundation Degree (FD) Media Make-up, Special Effects & Hair Design
University Centre
Courses for Adults
York School of Art
Curriculum Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
2 Years (2 days per week)
Level
Level 5
