Diploma of Beauty Therapy (CRICOS course code 111236A) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This nationally recognised qualification (SHB50121) prepares students for a career in the beauty industry, covering advanced techniques in skin treatments, body therapies, and salon management. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 03020E) with over 140 years of experience in vocational education, offering this course across six campuses in Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this Diploma under the Student visa (Subclass 500) and benefit from Australia's ESOS Act protections. The indicative tuition fee is A$28,800, with no mandatory non-tuition fees. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, entry requirements, delivery locations, and application process to help you make an informed decision.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (CRICOS course code 111236A) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. The qualification is classified under the field of education 110301 (Beauty Therapy) at AQF Level 5. It is designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in beauty therapy, including facial treatments, body massage, lash and brow services, and salon management. TAFE Queensland is one of Australia's largest vocational education providers, with government backing and a strong reputation for practical training. With six locations offering this course, from Cairns in the north to Toowoomba in the south, students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle and budget. The course duration of 51 weeks is typical for a Diploma-level program, allowing for comprehensive skill development and hands-on practice.
This Diploma covers a range of beauty therapy skills aligned with the national SHB50121 VET code. Students learn advanced techniques in skin analysis, facial treatments, body treatments, and makeup services. The curriculum also includes salon management, client communication, and retail sales. Graduates are prepared for roles such as beauty therapist, salon manager, or spa consultant. While the course focuses on practical skills, theory components include anatomy, physiology, and hygiene standards. The field of education (110301 Beauty Therapy) emphasises both technical competence and professional conduct. Upon completion, graduates may pursue further studies in specialised areas or enter the workforce directly. Note that this is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual qualification options.
The course runs for 51 weeks (~12 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (Diploma) with no additional certifications included. The full-time study load typically involves around 20 hours per week of classroom and practical training. TAFE Queensland may offer flexible timetables, but international students must maintain a full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. No work component is built into this course, meaning students are not required to undertake mandatory work placements. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$28,800 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, uniform, and equipment. The estimated total is A$28,800, but this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application charges. For example, OSHC costs approximately A$600 per year, and living costs in Queensland average A$1,300–A$2,000 per month depending on the city. Always confirm current fees and inclusions directly with TAFE Queensland at www.tafeqld.edu.au, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
International students must meet academic and English language requirements. For this Diploma level, TAFE Queensland typically expects completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. The recommended IELTS score is 5.5-6.0 overall, with no band less than 5.0. Other equivalent English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) are accepted. No foundation studies are offered as part of this course, but TAFE Queensland may provide pathway options for students who do not meet the requirements. Contact the provider directly for detailed entry criteria. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some beauty therapy courses offer work placements, this program focuses on classroom and simulated salon training. Students may arrange voluntary work experience outside of study hours, but this is not required for completion. For student visa holders, work rights are limited to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, as per Subclass 500 conditions.
This course is delivered at six TAFE Queensland campuses across the state: Cairns (Manunda, QLD), Ipswich (Bundamba, QLD), Mooloolaba (Mountain Creek, QLD), Robina (Robina, QLD), South Bank (South Brisbane, QLD), and Toowoomba (Toowoomba, QLD). Each location offers access to TAFE Queensland's industry-standard facilities. Cairns is a popular destination for international students due to its tropical climate and lower living costs. Ipswich and South Bank are close to Brisbane, with extensive public transport. Mooloolaba and Robina are on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast respectively, known for their lifestyle and tourism. Toowoomba is a regional city with a growing student community. For context, Queensland has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, and the cost of living varies by location: Brisbane is more expensive than regional areas. Students should consider campus amenities, accommodation options, and transport when choosing a location.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. All CRICOS-registered courses comply with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which protects your rights and ensures quality education. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Beauty Therapy at TAFE Queensland: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) offers this course. 2. Apply directly to TAFE Queensland — Check entry requirements, arrange English language testing, and submit your application before deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For detailed guidance, visit the TAFE Queensland international page.
Start your beauty therapy journey with TAFE Queensland. Use HeadStart Academy to explore this course and apply today.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.