VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency Treatments
The VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency Treatments at York College is an advanced qualification designed for Level 3 qualified beauty therapy practitioners aiming to expand their expertise in non-medical aesthetic therapies.
The course encompasses four mandatory units: Principles and Practice of Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies, Advanced Consultation for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies, Advanced Skin Care for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies, and Provide Radio Frequency Treatments.
Students will deepen their understanding of anatomy and physiology, health and safety protocols, and client consultation techniques specific to radio frequency treatments. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, utilising York College's state-of-the-art beauty therapy salons and equipment.
Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped to offer professional radio frequency treatments, enhancing their service offerings in the aesthetic industry.
Entry requirements
Students should have completed a Level 3 beauty related qualification prior to undertaking this qualification, for example Level 3 Beauty Therapy or Level 3 Access to Aesthetics (both courses available at York College).
Course units
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency Treatments at York College comprises four mandatory units that equip learners with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for delivering advanced radio frequency treatments in a non-medical aesthetic context. These units are:
- Principles and Practice of Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies
This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of the foundational principles, ethical considerations, and regulatory frameworks governing non-medical aesthetic practices. - Advanced Consultation for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies
Focusing on client assessment, this unit trains learners in conducting thorough consultations, managing client expectations, and ensuring informed consent. - Advanced Skin Care for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies
This unit delves into advanced skin analysis and care techniques, emphasizing the selection of appropriate treatments based on individual skin conditions. - Provide Radio Frequency Treatments
The core practical unit where learners gain hands-on experience in administering radio frequency treatments, understanding equipment usage, and adhering to safety protocols.
These units collectively ensure that graduates are well-prepared to offer professional radio frequency treatments, aligning with industry standards and client care expectations.
Assessment
The VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency Treatments at York College employs a comprehensive assessment strategy to ensure learners acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical proficiency in non-medical aesthetic therapies. Assessment methods typically include:
- Practical Observations: Learners are evaluated through direct observation while performing radio frequency treatments, demonstrating their ability to apply techniques safely and effectively.
- Written Assignments: These tasks assess the learner's understanding of theoretical concepts, including anatomy, physiology, and health and safety protocols relevant to advanced aesthetic therapies.
- Case Studies: Students compile detailed case studies, documenting client consultations, treatment planning, and outcomes to showcase their analytical and reflective skills.
- External Examinations: Learners must successfully complete externally set and marked written exams, as well as graded practical exams, to demonstrate their competence in both knowledge and application.
These assessment components are designed to align with national occupational standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to deliver professional radio frequency treatments in the aesthetic industry.
Course fees
£738
Contact our Admissions team if you have any course fee-related questions regarding funding eligibility etc: info@yorkcollege.ac.uk
Course progression
Students may wish to widen their treatment offering and study other courses, including:
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Micro-Pigmentation Treatments
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling
VTCT Skills Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy (2025)
VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Treatments (2026)
Dates & course durations
16th - 20th February, 9.00am-5.00pm.
Study methods
The VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency 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. Our Hair & Beauty department features two large, fully equipped hairdressing salons and four professional-standard beauty therapy salons, providing real-world environments for students to refine their skills. A welcoming commercial salon reception area enhances the professional experience, while three dedicated media make-up workshops offer creative spaces for students to bring their artistry to life using industry-standard tools and products.
Beyond the Hair & Beauty department, all students can enjoy the wider College’s outstanding facilities, including the modern Learning & Research Centre, quiet study hubs, well-equipped computer areas, multi-function printers, and expert support from the on-site helpdesk team—ensuring the perfect environment for both practical learning and academic success.
Additional costs
Students will need to purchase uniform.
Please get in touch for further information.
Career progression
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Radio Frequency opens a range of career progression opportunities for qualified beauty and aesthetic professionals looking to advance in the industry. Upon completion, learners can:
- Offer Advanced Aesthetic Treatments – Work as a radio frequency specialist in salons, aesthetic clinics, or independently, providing chemical peel treatments to address concerns like acne, pigmentation, and skin aging.
- Progress to Higher-Level Qualifications – Enrol onto further Level 4 courses in aesthetic treatments see course progression.
- Work in Medical Aesthetic Environments – Collaborate with dermatologists or aesthetic doctors in medical clinics, particularly with further training or qualifications, providing pre- and post-treatment care or supporting more advanced procedures.
- Start or Expand a Business – Use the qualification to set up a self-employed aesthetic practice, or to expand an existing beauty business by introducing advanced skin services.
This qualification enhances professional credibility with students gaining a regulated (as opposed to an accredited) qualification and opens doors to a growing market in advanced skincare and non-invasive cosmetic treatments.
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