Bachelor of Health Science in Aesthetics

What is a Bachelor of Health Science in Aesthetics?

A Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) course equips you with a diverse range of clinical knowledge and skills, focusing on preventative skin health and anti-ageing dermal therapies. Supported by a theoretical foundation in health science, this in-depth aesthetic course covers advanced skin health protocols and appropriate applications of techniques and therapies using the most up-to-date aesthetic technology and products.

With a foundation of biology knowledge and communication skills, this degree develops your understanding of a range of aesthetic principles, technologies and innovations, and teaches you to incorporate them into professional practice. The practical elements of this course will take place in our collaborative student-led clinic on the Brisbane campus, offering clients a range of treatments so you can confidently begin work in the beauty therapy industry.

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Learning outcomes

Perform and co-ordinate various dermal treatments to meet industry standards.
Develop treatment plans aligned to clients specific needs and expectations.
Understand skin health protocols and how they impact different skin types and conditions.
Stay on the frontline of innovative industry developments.

ASDC accredited

This course is accredited by the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians.

Download course guide Start online application

Study mode

On campus, Blended

Campus locations*

Brisbane, Online

Student

Domestic

International

Course duration

3 years full time, part-time options available

Start date

20 Feb 2023

19 Jun 2023

View all key dates

Fees

View Fees

This is an AQF Level 7 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

*For more details on international student study options.

Tap into our knowledge

Our heritage with Australian National College of Beauty ensures you’re learning from years of specialised experience.

The highest level of practical experience

Develop clinical skills, access the latest technology and improve client wellbeing at our student-led clinic.

Learn from specialists in their field

Our academics understand where the industry is heading and will guide you on your learning journey.

Hear from student Charlotte Ralph, who is currently studying our Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics).

Career opportunities

This course will set you up to confidently work in the beauty industry. Upon graduation you can find work in beauty salons, day spas and other facilities which promote health and wellness.

Potential career paths

Dermal Therapist
Average salary: $58,000 - $60,000
Clinic Practice Manager
Average salary: $85,000 - $110,000
Industry Influencer
Average salary: $60,000 - $195,000

Learn more about careers in Health

Subjects and units

Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising 3 hours of facilitated study and 7 hours self-directed study.

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Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Electives

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Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

Counselling & Communication Skills | CCS103

Counselling & Communication Skills encompasses counselling skills commonly needed by health professionals for effective communication. This subject comprises a practical approach to a variety of communication skills and best practice strategies including promoting change, compliance, obstacles to change, transition and self-care. Sessions facilitate the development of effective listening and responding skills, increased personal awareness and insight in order to assist the building of a professional relationship for interactions with clients, colleagues and members of the community.
Foundations of Aesthetics | FAS102

The subject focuses on the foundations of professional ethics of the Aesthetic professional, including the concept, history, importance and principles of the profession. It focuses on the professional avenues in which the Beauty/Aesthetic professional works and highlights professional communication and integration with the other areas of health and wellness. This subject examines the professional career, and the history of Beauty/Spa and Aesthetics education, and discusses their role in society. It also discusses the professional associations and regulatory bodies relevant to the Beauty/Spa and Aesthetics industry.

This subject also focuses on Salon and Business Fundamentals relevant to the professional workplace in the Beauty/Spa and Aesthetics industry. In addition, this subject addresses the basic fundamentals in a practical treatment scenario including Occupational Workplace Health & Safety, organisation of the work station, client consultation, treatment planning and professional conduct when addressing client concerns.
Structure and Function of the Human Body | SHB102

This subject introduces the basic concepts and terminologies required to study and understand the structure and function of the human body. The interaction and organisation of cells, tissues and organs will form a basis to study the physiological integration of key body systems. The maintenance and regulation of the internal environment by homeostasis at a system level and by hormonal and neural influence will be key to students understanding disruption to homeostasis and disease in later subjects. Key physiological and functional processes such as movement, metabolism, oxygenation, protection, elimination and reproduction will be discussed in relation to the body systems. This subject will provide evidence based foundational knowledge in the biological sciences to guide nursing practice.
Cosmetic Chemistry | CCH104

This subject addresses the complexities of cosmetic chemistry in relation to Aesthetics and how cosmetic preparations physiologically interact with the skin. It develops theoretical knowledge relating to the chemical study of raw cosmetic materials, organic and inorganic cosmetic format, product formulation, application method and how common chemical substances interact with the skin to promote health and positive aesthetic impact. It outlines the main differences between Cosmetology and Pharmacology and analyses the relevant legislation associated with these areas of study.
Biological Foundations | BFD105A

Biological Foundations explores the biological building blocks which make up the human body from the chemical level up to the cellular level. These essential chemistry concepts will assist with building relevant links to the study of human physiology in later subjects. The subject then explores the foundational studies in biochemistry which includes the structure and function of carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, lipids, DNA and RNA. The concepts of gene expression and regulation are discussed in addition to the cellular membrane structure and transport through the membrane. The study of the biology of the human cell concludes this subject and upon completion equips students to commence study at the tissue level of structure and physiology subjects.
Manual Aesthetic Techniques | MAT106

This subject addresses the foundation and development of manual aesthetic techniques in interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary forms. It develops the practical skills associated with the application of aesthetics treatments of lymphatic drainage of the face and body, and addresses the technical knowledge surrounding client consultation and assessment, contraindications, treatment protocols and planning based on individual client characteristics and variables.
Aesthetic Practice with Technology I | APT107

This subject addresses the basic skills of aesthetic facial techniques. It addresses the use of equipment, basic technology and cosmetic preparations associated with electro-aesthetic facial treatments. It enables facial procedures to be conducted which include cleansing the skin, skin analysis, treatment of skin disorders such as acne and application of products based on identified skin conditions and type. This subject is a pre-requisite to Aesthetics Practice with Technology II (included in the Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics).
Aesthetic Electrotherapy I | AET108

This subject addresses the basic theoretical concepts related to the physical and fundamental aspects of electrical, mechanical, sound and thermal equipment used in aesthetics procedures for the face and body. This subject provides foundational knowledge that allows the learner to understand the physiological effects of each related body system, created through electrical and mechanical aesthetic treatments. This subject is a pre-requisite to Aesthetic Electrotherapy II.

Requirements

These six core subjects must be completed. Additionally you're required to select two electives from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Foundations of Human Nutrition | FHN201

This subject provides students with fundamental nutrition knowledge through examining the relationship between food, nutrition and human health. Students will learn about macro and micro-nutrition, dietary guidelines, role of nutrition in metabolism, health maintenance and disease, nutrient rich food sources, and the specific nutritional requirements throughout the lifespan. Students will also learn how to identify and construct a healthy diet according to specific dietary guidelines, and know the impact of nutritional deficiency and excess as they relate to health and disease.
Biosafety in Health | BSH202

The learning unit addresses aspects of biosafety, from the organisation of the workplace to the identification and mitigation of risks, as well as accident prevention in teaching and research laboratories, and in health services. Reduction of operational risk, cross-infection and transmission of infectious diseases. This includes infection control guidelines and prevention, sterilisation, risk management surrounding invasive procedures and skin penetration.
Cultural Diversity in Aesthetics | CDA204

The subject discusses Lifestyle, Health and the Environment as complex objects. It addresses cultural and ethnic-racial diversity, and discusses how this impacts on health, lifestyle, well-being, beauty, functionality, body image, quality of life and the environment. This subject explores how cultural diversity in lifestyle, health and the environment impacts the individual, Aesthetics industry as a whole and how this shapes the individual practitioner and their approach to their professional role.
Professional Clinic Practice I | PCP206

This subject places the future Beauty/Spa professional into a clinical work environment (practical clinic or work placement). Students experience the day-to-day practice of Beauty/Spa environments in clinics, salons, spas and/or other healthcare institutions, with emphasis on beauty/spa treatments for the face and body.
Aesthetics Practice with Technology II | APT207

This subject addresses the complex physical aspects and foundations for the application and operation of advanced aesthetics equipment using electrical, electromagnetic and phototherapeutic resources used in procedures in face and body aesthetics. It includes both theoretical and practical application of skills and knowledge using modern aesthetic technologies.
Aesthetics Electrotherapy II | AET208

This subject addresses facial techniques associated with cosmetic products with acids and state-of-the-art active ingredients, and advanced facial aesthetic technology. It enables facial techniques to be performed, such as treatment of dyschromia, periorbital melanosis, and procedures to prevent ageing.

Requirements

These six core subjects must be completed. Additionally you're required to select two electives from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Aesthetics and Dermatological Changes | ADC301

This subject addresses the most prevalent dermatological diseases of the skin in the area of Aesthetics within an integrated approach. This subject combines complex theoretical knowledge of the integumentary system and its associated diseases and conditions, and contextualizes this with the practical skill of clinical skin analysis. This subject also addresses the evaluations of the skin and body, as tools for identifying and resulting in a diagnostic hypothesis.
Advanced Body Aesthetics Techniques | ABA302

This subject addresses the basics of body aesthetic techniques. It promotes the study of cosmetics products, manual resources and aesthetic technology used in procedures on the body, for active treatment of conditions such as gynoid hydrolipodystrophy and localised lipodystrophy.
Advanced Dermal Aesthetics Practice | ADA303

This subject addresses the knowledge and skills required to design and safely apply non-ionising radiation treatments employing intense pulsed light and laser technologies. In this subject, students acquire the high level technical skills and knowledge required to make independent judgements in the consultation of clients, analysis of skin and hair characteristics, creation and assessment of intense pulsed light and hair reduction treatment plans, selection and application of the appropriate technology for a hair reduction treatment. Students also address the fundamentals of design, operational and technical management functions in a variety of contexts relevant to intense pulsed light and laser treatments.
RERP307 Entrepreneurship Professionalism and Business Skills in Health

Entrepreneurship, Professionalism & Business Skills in Health will introduce students to the concepts of small business management, entrepreneurship and how to identify the professional requirements of their healthcare discipline. This subject will explore the topics necessary to establish and run a successful healthcare practice and maintain their professional status in the healthcare sector. Students will also explore their professional identity to support the understanding of the ethical conduct, liability, legal and regulatory requirements that are pertinent to their specific modality. This subject will initiate the development of a Business plan using entrepreneurial practices and innovative design thinking. This will include exploring business strategies such as operating policy and procedures, marketing and branding, networking strategies, leadership, administration and financial issues necessary for the operation and management of a contemporary healthcare practice.
Professional Clinical Placement II | PCP307

This subject places the future Aesthetics professional into a clinical work environment (e.g. in a Medi-Spa). Students experience the day to-day practice of Aesthetics in clinics, surgeries and/or other healthcare institutions, with greater emphasis and experience in aesthetic treatments for the face and body.
Critical Literature Review | CLR308A

This subject builds on established knowledge of literature search methods and critical appraisal skills to culminate in a review that conforms to publication standards. You will have an opportunity to critically examine the current literature to answer a chosen research question that will inform clinical decision-making. You will write a literature review that appraises the current knowledge base, highlighting strengths, weaknesses and omissions in existing literature.

Requirements

Choose two elective subjects below in year two and choose two elective subjects below in year three.

Elective subjects

Social and Emotional Wellbeing | HWEL2006

This subject covers the principles of social, emotional and psychological health, as well as how they relate to health behaviours. You will analyse the role of capacity building and the promotion of wellbeing through mindfulness, positive behavioural change and resilience.
Healthcare in the Digital World | HDW204

Digital competence is an essential part of any career in the contemporary health sector. This subject will develop your digital fluency and introduce you to current and emerging health care technologies and data science, the role of telehealth, health applications for mobile phones, wearable technology, social media and the internet of things. You will cover the use of health informatics, such as telemedicine in rural communities and developing countries, and managing and monitoring information technology operations. You will also discuss the legal and ethical issues of using of these technologies in your practice as a health professional, and create an ethical and professionally appropriate online presence.
Medi-spa in Aesthetics Practice | MSP304

This subject addresses the design and application of wellness programs offered in Medi-spas that combine the following dermal therapies in a spa and wellness context - clinical microdermabrasion, chemical peels, light based therapies, skin needling, fat cavitation, radiofrequency and other body contouring modalities. It addresses the classifications of Medi-spas giving details of their technical, administrative and physical structure. This subject conceptualizes and classifies the impact of stress on quality of life, associating the practical application of Aesthetic therapies and their physiological effects to overall well-being.
Aesthetics in Surgical Practice| ASP306

The curricular unit addresses, in interdisciplinary form, the application of aesthetic procedures before and after plastic surgery and in skin care following dermatological and aesthetic medicine procedures.

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. Please note that due to COVID-19, authorities have provided exceptions to the usual face-to-face learning requirements. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

Industry partners and work placements

Work placements and Work-Integrated Learning programs provide a valuable resource for you to develop hands-on practical experience to ensure you graduate confident and job-ready.

Work-Integrated Learning hours

You’ll be able to gain 65 hours clinical experience at an external organisation of your choice, and you'll also undertake 50 hours of Work-Integrated Learning at our student-led clinic The Practice Wellbeing Centre.

Entry details

Domestic
International

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

If you are truly passionate about health, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of health scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the health industry:

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Year 12 (Australian secondary school certificate) or equivalent.

Vocational qualification (AQF Level 4), or above

OR

Successful completion of a Higher Education qualification.

The below is an alternative option
Work and life experience that demonstrates skills and knowledge gained through paid or unpaid employment, formal learning and/or non-formal learning (presented on a current resume with attached cover letter).

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a international student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Australian Year 12 or equivalent; AND

Academic IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) or equivalent.

OR alternative entry requirement may be available. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for a course?

Domestic students:
Check the entry requirements for the course you’re interested in and submit your initial application form online to begin your journey at Torrens University Australia.

If you have any difficulty, please contact our Future Student Advisors, who can talk you through the process.

ALL SA/SACE and Victorian high school students must apply through SATAC and/or VTAC. Search for Torrens University Australia, Billy Blue College of Design or Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School.

International students:
If you are an international student hoping to begin your studies in Australia, study online, or transfer from another university, you may choose to do so through our Education Agents. Our agents are located throughout the world and will make sure the enrolment process runs smoothly. View the full list of International Education Agents. You can also apply online. For anything else, please contact our International team.
Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available for most courses upon application and academic approval (excluding Higher Degree by Research programs). 

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Review our Course Credits page or chat to our Future Student Advisors.
What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?

Recognition of Prior Learning is an assessment process that recognises experience, previous study and qualifications, and other forms of informal and non-formal learning, to determine if you meet course requirements.

If you have relevant qualifications or experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course and a reduction in tuition costs.

Please speak to our Future Student Advisors to discuss your prior learning experiences.

For more information, please visit Course credits.
How do I apply for a scholarship?

Torrens University has a wide range of scholarship options to support new, returning, international and Australian students. They all include a reduction in tuition fees, and some scholarships include a mentoring component with our industry partners.

Domestic students

When you speak to our Future Student Advisors, let them know you wish to be considered for a scholarship in your application form. They will show you how to apply for a scholarship.

International students

Please contact your Education Agent for further information. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 575 803 or by email.

For more details, explore our range of scholarships.

What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?

Torrens University Australia no longer considers ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) as our primary entry requirement. We have removed ATAR as the key admissions criteria for applicants aiming to study at Torrens University Australia. We strongly believed an alternative to the ATAR system should be found, which more broadly assesses students, especially when soft skills are emerging as important employability attributes. So, students with a recent secondary school education are now considered for admission if they have a Year 12 (Australian secondary school) certificate. Exceptions may apply to some courses.
What if  I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has a range of application pathways to help you gain entry into our degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study Pathways or contact our Future Student Advisors.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
If you are a domestic student attending university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

You are eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for a unit of study (i.e. subject) if you:

Undertake study with an approved provider.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements:

An Australian citizen or a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency criteria and who will undertake, in Australia, at least one unit of study contributing to your course; OR

A permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be a resident in Australia for the duration of your unit; OR

Are a permanent visa holder who is undertaking bridging study for overseas-trained professionals, and will be a resident in Australia for the duration of the study.

Enrolled in an eligible unit of study by the census date for the unit.

Have not exceeded the FEE-HELP limit.

For full details, visit the Australian Government website Study Assist.

If you are still unsure, please contact our Future Student Advisors who can talk you through the information.

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Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics)