Diploma of Beauty Therapy (CRICOS course code 112051B) is a Diploma delivered by Gordon Institute of TAFE over 42 weeks (~10 months). This qualification (AQF Level 5, VET national code SHB50121) prepares students for professional roles in the beauty industry, covering advanced techniques in facial treatments, body therapy, lash and brow services, and salon business operations. Gordon Institute of TAFE (CRICOS 00011G) is a government-owned provider with a strong reputation for vocational education in Geelong, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. On HeadStart Academy, you'll find accurate course data directly from the CRICOS register (updated April 2026). This course is ideal for those wanting to study beauty therapy in Australia's vibrant personal services sector. Geelong offers a blend of coastal lifestyle and affordable living, with easy access to Melbourne. Read on for fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
The Diploma of Beauty Therapy falls under the field of Personal Services (110399). At AQF Level 5, students gain specialised knowledge and skills for professional beauty therapy practice. The curriculum typically includes advanced skin treatments, body massage, nail technology, and salon management. Graduates are prepared for roles such as beauty therapist, salon manager, or spa consultant. This qualification provides a pathway to higher-level studies in personal services or business. The course combines theoretical learning with practical training in simulated salon environments. While specific syllabi may vary, students can expect to develop expertise in client consultation, product knowledge, and industry standards. As with all programs at CRICOS-registered providers, the course meets Australian quality frameworks. HeadStart Academy sources this information from the official CRICOS register, ensuring you have reliable data to make informed decisions.
The Diploma of Beauty Therapy is delivered over 42 weeks (~10 months) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and is not a foundation studies program. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 42 weeks, which represents the standard full-time study period. Students are expected to commit to regular class hours and self-study. The course structure accommodates international students under the Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. There is no mandatory work component, though students may choose to work part-time within visa limits (48 hours per fortnight during term). For precise timetables and start dates, contact Gordon Institute of TAFE directly.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at Gordon Institute of TAFE is A$19,000. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, equipment, and student services) amount to an estimated A$5,000, bringing the total estimated cost to A$24,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. For current fee information, always check the provider's website. Below is a summary table of fees. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and you can trust the data we provide for planning your study budget.
General entry requirements for the Diploma of Beauty Therapy include an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent English proficiency test). Applicants are typically expected to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) and may need to demonstrate prior study in a related field. Some providers offer foundation or pathway programs for those who do not meet direct entry requirements. Gordon Institute of TAFE may have specific prerequisites, so it is essential to check their official admissions page. English language requirements can be waived for students from certain countries or those who completed previous study in English. Always confirm with the institution, as requirements are subject to change. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the provider directly for the most accurate entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students will not be required to complete work placement as part of the qualification. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain practical experience in the beauty industry while studying. If you are seeking a program with integrated work experience, you may want to explore other courses. Remember that working while studying can help with living costs and provide valuable Australian workplace exposure. For visa work conditions, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Diploma of Beauty Therapy is delivered at Gordon Institute of TAFE in Geelong, Victoria. Geelong is a vibrant regional city with a growing international student community. The city is approximately 75 km from Melbourne and offers a lower cost of living compared to the capital. Weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200 to A$350. Public transport includes buses and regional trains to Melbourne. Geelong has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a solid choice for vocational studies. The campus is well-equipped with beauty therapy facilities. Studying in Geelong provides a balance of quality education and affordable lifestyle. For more on living and studying in Victoria, see our state guide.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, so you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. OSHC covers medical and hospital costs; it is compulsory for all student visa holders. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and cannot provide visa advice. For personalised guidance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Geelong is an excellent city to study beauty therapy, offering a supportive environment for international students. The city's cost of living is lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly expenses of A$400–A$600 including rent, groceries, and transport. Geelong has a growing beauty and wellness industry, providing opportunities for part-time work while studying. Public transport is reliable, with buses and a train line connecting to Melbourne. The student community is welcoming, and Gordon Institute of TAFE has strong industry links. Studying here allows you to immerse yourself in Australian culture while pursuing a vocational qualification. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Geelong stands out as a practical and affordable choice. For more insights on study locations, browse our location guides.
Applying for the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at Gordon Institute of TAFE involves three simple steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered to guarantee quality and visa eligibility.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Gordon Institute of TAFE website to complete an application. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and identification documents. Deadlines vary, so check with the institution.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE from the provider. Then submit your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs, including your CoE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Remember, course fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always verify details directly with Gordon Institute of TAFE before proceeding.
Ready to start your beauty therapy journey? Explore your options with HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Gordon Institute of TAFE today.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Gordon Institute of TAFE. 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.