The Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science (52320)

The Advanced Diploma of Dermal Science is a unique education combination of dermal science, enrolled nursing and medical assisting units, which have been contextualised to the field of cosmetic medicine and dermal therapies. The curriculum covers the key competencies required to work as a qualified Dermal Therapist within a cosmetic medical practice. Scope of work includes performing dermal therapy procedures, assisting medical personnel with cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures, assisting with practice and patient management, and performing administration duties.

Admission requirements

Completion of year 12 or mature-age entry. In addition, a 1000-word essay on the importance of achieving a formal qualification in dermal therapies. Candidates holding a minimum of a Certificate IV in a health or beauty-related field are exempt from the essay requirement.

Course duration and commitment

Full-time: 26 hours per week over three 16-week semesters (students have the choice to apply to fast-track over 2 semesters)
Part-time: 13 hours per week over six 16-week semesters
Single unit: 6 hours per week over one 16-week semester

Study modes available

On-campus (WA and QLD)
Online, with practical competencies in NSW, WA and QLD

Learning Pathways

On completion of the Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science, students will gain credit / advanced standing into Enrolled Nursing or Medical Assisting vocational courses. These learning pathways will enable graduates to further enhance their scope of practice within a cosmetic medical or other health environment.

The number of credit points depends on the delivery structure and level of the enrolled nursing course chosen. Most graduates will achieve between 7 and 10 units credit. This equates to approximately 35% of the course.

Course Structure

Contact hours per week do NOT include the addition self-guided study.

Semester One (16-week period)

Code Cluster Name
1.1 Dermal Science Theory
1.1A Dermal health: identification, referral and treatment
HLTCOM406B Make referrals to other health care professional when required
1.1B Epidermal resurfacing techniques
1.1C Light-Based Therapies, and IPL/Laser Safety Officer
1.2 Human Biology
(Includes HLTAP401A Confirm Physical Health Status)
1.3 Communications
HLTEN402A Communicate effectively in a nursing role
HLTHIR403B Work effectively with culturally diverse patients and co-workers
HLTHIR404B Work effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples
1.4 Practice Management and Administration
HLTCOM5A Manage a Practice
BSBFLM512A Ensure Team Effectiveness

Semester Two (16-week period)

Code Cluster Name
2.0 Working with a Cosmetic Medical Practice
HLTEN401A Work in the nursing profession
HLTEN509A Apply legal and ethical parameters to nursing practice
2.1 Cosmetic Science Surgical and Non-Surgical
2.3 Psychology
2.4 Cosmeceutical Science

Semester Three (16-week period)

Code Cluster Name
Pre 2.2 Preparation for Dermal Science Practical
HLTFA301B Apply First Aid
HLTIN301A Comply with infection control policies and procedures
BSBMED303A Maintain patient records
2.2 Dermal Science Practical
2.2A Perform Microdermabrasion
2.2B Perform Chemical Peels
2.2C Perform IPL Photo Rejuvenation and Permanent Hair Reduction
2.2D Perform Skin Needling

Prerequisite to Graduation

Code Cluster Name
3.0 Clinical Experience
Prior to graduation, a student must log a minimum of 300 hrs of clinical experience within the workplace.

Specialist Optional Unit: (Evidence of medical supervision required)

Code Cluster Name
3.3 Perform Photo Dynamic Therapy

Additional Information

If graduates of the Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science wish to work in a non-medical beauty clinic, they may be advised to complete some additional units from the Beauty Training Package. These units are delivered through TAFEs and private beauty colleges.

For details on course fees download the Enrolment Application Form.

Request Latest Course Prospectus

Contact AACDS

Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science
Head Office
Level 1, 22 Prowse Street
West Perth Western Australia 6005
T +61 8 9226 3366   F+61 8 9226 3233

Practical Training Rooms
Suite 1a Arcadia Chambers 1 Roydhouse Street
Subiaco Western Australia 6008
T +61 8 9382 4788   F +61 8 9382 4833

CRICOS Provider No. 02813B

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