Love beauty? Turn your passion into a rewarding career as a Beauty Therapist. With this Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy, you’ll build the practical skills and knowledge needed to qualify as a job-ready Beauty Therapist!
During the course, you’ll learn everything from massage treatments and facials through to lash and brow treatments, waxing, make-up and nailcare.
This course provides you with everything you need to get started in Beauty Therapy – and you’ll even get a free professional, industry-standard, beauty kit to use while you study.
Better still, you’ll also be able combine the flexibility of online studies with 110 hours of practical work placement, allowing you to put your skills to the test. If you want to become a successful beauty therapist, this course’s combination of online learning and real-world experience means you can study anywhere, anytime on a phone, tablet, desktop or laptop.
This course is superseded by SHB40121 – Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy. For now, you may still enrol in this course, and we will transition you to the new course at no additional cost once it is available. We’ll be in touch closer to our launch date to give you more information about what this means for you. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, as our friendly Enrolment Consultants are always happy to help.
As an Open Colleges beauty student you will also gain access to a number of high quality and in-demand professional industry kits that allow you to practice and perfect your skills. The kits include:
If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.
| Course number | E1192 |
| Qualification name | SHB40115 Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy |
| Course duration | Maximum 18 months |
| Delivery Method | Online with Work Placement |
| Recognition | Nationally Recognised  |
| Assessments | Case studies, Interviews, Journal, Knowledge tests, Label the diagram questions, Portfolio of evidence, Practical assessments, Reports, Scenario-based questions, Short-answer questions, Visual diary, Written reports |
| Awarded by | Open Colleges Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90796) |
You will need to have completed Year 12, or equivalent. Equivalency can be demonstrated by one of the following:
A qualification at Certificate III level or higher, OR
Two years of industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication.
You will need to be at least 18 years old.
This course involves reading learning content and undertaking a range of written assessments and engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 12 level.
If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 12 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:
Successful completion of a Nationally Recognised Training qualification at Certificate III level or higher; or
3 years relevant industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication
Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided to by Open Colleges.
The unit SHBBBOS003 - Provide body treatments, requires the use of Galvanic and high-frequency devices. This type of equipment will need to be utilised to complete the required treatments during your work placement. If your nominated host work placement does not have these devices, you may need to find another host work placement that has this equipment available to you or source the equipment independently. The cost of these units’ range between $50 and $150, below are some examples of suitable devices that can be purchased if required.
You will need access to a computer and the internet and have basic computing skills. Minimum specifications for your computer are:
Microsoft Office 2010 or equivalent
Broadband internet connection
2GB of RAM
CD-ROM or DVD drive
Adobe Reader XI or equivalent
Adobe Flash Player 10 or higher
Access to printer and associated software
Access to scanner and associated software
Digital imaging software
File compression software
Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 8 recommended)
1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
Mac OSX v10.5 or higher (Mac OSX v10.6 recommended)
1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:
Creating, saving and editing Microsoft Office documents.
Accessing and searching the internet.
Downloading and saving documents from websites.
Uploading documents through websites.
Participating in online discussions.
Compressing image files.
Connecting digital cameras and downloading and storing images.
Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.
Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.
Tan-tastic provides you with an introduction to the beauty industry. You also learn the art of perfecting spray tanning applications.
| SHBBBOS001 | Apply cosmetic tanning products |
Manicure and pedicure treatments are highly popular salon treatments. Here, you learn how to perform spa manicure and pedicure treatments using both coloured and French polish, as well as learning the importance of health and hygiene in the salon.
| SHBBNLS001 | Provide manicure and pedicare services |
| SHBBINF001 | Maintain infection control standards |
| SHBXWHS001 | Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices |
The beauty industry is an ever-changing industry. New treatments, products and equipment are constantly being introduced. Therefore, it is always best practice to keep your knowledge up-to-date. Having a thorough understanding of the organisational requirements for working in a salon is imperative for a Beauty Therapist to provide safe and effective treatments.
| SHBXIND001 | Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment |
| SHBBRES001 | Research and apply beauty industry information |
Master the art of creating the perfect lashes! You will learn about eyelash extensions and the skills you need to perform them. You will also gain an understanding of providing salon services to clients and how to process financial transactions.
| SHBBMUP001 | Apply eyelash extensions |
| SHBXCCS002 | Provide salon services to clients |
| SHBXCCS001 | Conduct salon financial transactions |
Gain the skills and knowledge required to perform safe and effective waxing and lash and brow services in a salon. You’ll also learn about hair growth patterns.
| SHBBHRS001 | Provide waxing services |
| SHBBFAS001 | Provide lash and brow services |
Learn how to provide the perfect massage and body treatments to clients in the salon whilst gaining an understanding of how the body works.
| SHBBBOS002 | Provide body massages |
| SHBBBOS003 | Provide body treatments |
Lymphatic massage helps with toxin and waste removal. Learn the skills and knowledge to provide superficial lymph massage treatments in a salon to help detoxify the body.
| SHBBBOS006 | Provide superficial lymph massage treatments |
Learn up-to-date techniques for applying make-up to allow clients to always look and feel their best.
| SHBBMUP002 | Design and apply make-up |
| SHBBMUP004 | Design and apply remedial camouflage make-up |
Skin is the largest organ of the body so we need to ensure it stays healthy. Here, you will learn how the skin works and the best ways to maximize skin health and minimize damage. You’ll also learn how to perform facial treatments to suit each clients’ skin.
| SHBBFAS002 | Provide facial treatments and skin care recommendations |
Learn the skills and knowledge needed to provide intimate waxing services on female clients.
| SHBBHRS002 | Provide female intimate waxing services |
Learn how to truly relax your client – gain the skills to perform aromatherapy massages with a personalised blend of aromatic oils.
| SHBBBOS004 | Provide aromatherapy massage |
Pay in Full
You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo
You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan. When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Payment Plan
You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.
Zip Money Payment Plan
If you need a little more flexibility with your finances and would like to pay off your course fees over a longer period of time, we can assist by organising Zip Money to pay your course fees directly to us on your behalf, and you pay this loan back to Zip Money over an agreed period of time. Zip Money provides you flexible options of selecting a 24, 36 or 48 months interest-free, payment plan (dependant on which course you’re enrolling into) to suit your lifestyle, giving you more flexibility than ever before.
BPAY®
With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more.
BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.
Ellena has over 15 years' experience in the beauty and cosmetic industry, which started after achieving a Diploma of Beauty Therapy, working in salons, cosmetic clinics, running her own beauty business (specialising in brow-shaping, nails and tanning), supervising work placement students, as well as lecturing experience. Ellena is motivated by helping others to feel better about themselves, being able to pass on her knowledge to students (and seeing them develop and enhance their confidence and skills), and being part of an industry that is continuing to grow and allow therapists to have flexible work arrangements.
Her favourite treatments to teach includes stone therapy massage, nail treatments, brow shaping, lash treatments (including extensions), and tanning.
Kristie has over 10 years’ experience working in salons and day spas combined. She is a highly trained therapist and is motivated by her love for the business. She moved into Education where she can pass on her knowledge to students.
As a trainer Kristie is approachable and patient which makes her classroom and online environment a fun place to relax and learn treatments. She believes Beauty is an ever-evolving industry that will never go out of fashion, and it is important to teach rising therapists or technicians, new and innovative techniques. Tanning, waxing, facials and body massage are Kristie’s favourite treatments to teach and perform in the salon.
This course includes course materials from:
Beauty therapists world wide insist upon Caronlab Australia's superior salon waxes and accessories. Based in Geelong, Australia, the brand had its beginnings in 1979. With a wealth of knowledge and dedicated research and development, Caronlab Australia is the best choice in professional hair removal products and accessories.
Caronlab Australia partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
As an expert in all-natural marine skin care products, Algologie offers a unique and exclusive method based on mineralization, re-balancing the vital functions of the body.
Algologie partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Specialising in unique and intensive skin treatments for a variety of skin problems, Fleur De Mer is proudly Australian made and owned. Its cosmeceutical products are formulated with unique technology to provide quick, visible results so as to satisfy the huge demand for non surgical skin care.
Fleur de Mer partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Hawley is celebrating over 75 years of manufacture and distribution in the nail and beauty industry at both professional and retail level. Hawley strive for a reputation of excellence built on a foundation of quality, innovative products at competitive prices and a high level of friendly, professional service.
Hawley International partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Crown Brush Australia is a leader within the professional make up industry and can offer a number of different products from Pro Brushes, Makeup Palettes, Student Kits and a wide range of cosmetic items.With over 30 years of brush making tradition in the USA and worldwide markets, Crown Brush Australia can offer you the largest range of professional makeup brushes with over 700 different styles.
Crown Australia partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Open Colleges students may be eligible to receive discount cards, which will allow them to restock their kits and network with professional suppliers.
The workplace will need to provide beauty treatments and have access to a full comprehensive range of professional products for each practical treatment performed. Examples of suitable workplaces include beauty salons and beauty/retreat spas.
You may be required to complete work placement in multiple salons if your chosen salon does not provide all of the required services.
All costs of work placement including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or OC), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation and uniforms are the responsibility of the student.
Selected course fees when you pay upfront.
Voucher code: AUGUST21
Offer ends on Sunday 21st August 2022 at 11:59pm AEST.
Course at a Glance
Online with Work Placement
Flexible payment options available
Nationally recognised
Course at a Glance
Online with Work Placement
Flexible payment options available
Nationally recognised
Selected course fees when you pay upfront.
Voucher code: AUGUST21
Offer ends on Sunday 21st August 2022 at 11:59pm AEST.
Love beauty? Turn your passion into a rewarding career as a Beauty Therapist. With this Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy, you’ll build the practical skills and knowledge needed to qualify as a job-ready Beauty Therapist!
During the course, you’ll learn everything from massage treatments and facials through to lash and brow treatments, waxing, make-up and nailcare.
This course provides you with everything you need to get started in Beauty Therapy – and you’ll even get a free professional, industry-standard, beauty kit to use while you study.
Better still, you’ll also be able combine the flexibility of online studies with 110 hours of practical work placement, allowing you to put your skills to the test. If you want to become a successful beauty therapist, this course’s combination of online learning and real-world experience means you can study anywhere, anytime on a phone, tablet, desktop or laptop.
This course is superseded by SHB40121 – Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy. For now, you may still enrol in this course, and we will transition you to the new course at no additional cost once it is available. We’ll be in touch closer to our launch date to give you more information about what this means for you. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, as our friendly Enrolment Consultants are always happy to help.
As an Open Colleges beauty student you will also gain access to a number of high quality and in-demand professional industry kits that allow you to practice and perfect your skills. The kits include:
If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.
| Course number | E1192 |
| Qualification name | SHB40115 Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy |
| Course duration | Maximum 18 months |
| Delivery Method | Online with Work Placement |
| Recognition | Nationally Recognised |
| Assessments | Case studies, Interviews, Journal, Knowledge tests, Label the diagram questions, Portfolio of evidence, Practical assessments, Reports, Scenario-based questions, Short-answer questions, Visual diary, Written reports |
| Awarded by | Open Colleges Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90796) |
You will need to have completed Year 12, or equivalent. Equivalency can be demonstrated by one of the following:
A qualification at Certificate III level or higher, OR
Two years of industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication.
You will need to be at least 18 years old.
This course involves reading learning content and undertaking a range of written assessments and engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 12 level.
If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 12 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:
Successful completion of a Nationally Recognised Training qualification at Certificate III level or higher; or
3 years relevant industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication
Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided to by Open Colleges.
The unit SHBBBOS003 - Provide body treatments, requires the use of Galvanic and high-frequency devices. This type of equipment will need to be utilised to complete the required treatments during your work placement. If your nominated host work placement does not have these devices, you may need to find another host work placement that has this equipment available to you or source the equipment independently. The cost of these units’ range between $50 and $150, below are some examples of suitable devices that can be purchased if required.
You will need access to a computer and the internet and have basic computing skills. Minimum specifications for your computer are:
Microsoft Office 2010 or equivalent
Broadband internet connection
2GB of RAM
CD-ROM or DVD drive
Adobe Reader XI or equivalent
Adobe Flash Player 10 or higher
Access to printer and associated software
Access to scanner and associated software
Digital imaging software
File compression software
Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 8 recommended)
1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
Mac OSX v10.5 or higher (Mac OSX v10.6 recommended)
1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:
Creating, saving and editing Microsoft Office documents.
Accessing and searching the internet.
Downloading and saving documents from websites.
Uploading documents through websites.
Participating in online discussions.
Compressing image files.
Connecting digital cameras and downloading and storing images.
Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.
Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.
Tan-tastic provides you with an introduction to the beauty industry. You also learn the art of perfecting spray tanning applications.
| SHBBBOS001 | Apply cosmetic tanning products |
Manicure and pedicure treatments are highly popular salon treatments. Here, you learn how to perform spa manicure and pedicure treatments using both coloured and French polish, as well as learning the importance of health and hygiene in the salon.
| SHBBNLS001 | Provide manicure and pedicare services |
| SHBBINF001 | Maintain infection control standards |
| SHBXWHS001 | Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices |
The beauty industry is an ever-changing industry. New treatments, products and equipment are constantly being introduced. Therefore, it is always best practice to keep your knowledge up-to-date. Having a thorough understanding of the organisational requirements for working in a salon is imperative for a Beauty Therapist to provide safe and effective treatments.
| SHBXIND001 | Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment |
| SHBBRES001 | Research and apply beauty industry information |
Master the art of creating the perfect lashes! You will learn about eyelash extensions and the skills you need to perform them. You will also gain an understanding of providing salon services to clients and how to process financial transactions.
| SHBBMUP001 | Apply eyelash extensions |
| SHBXCCS002 | Provide salon services to clients |
| SHBXCCS001 | Conduct salon financial transactions |
Gain the skills and knowledge required to perform safe and effective waxing and lash and brow services in a salon. You’ll also learn about hair growth patterns.
| SHBBHRS001 | Provide waxing services |
| SHBBFAS001 | Provide lash and brow services |
Learn how to provide the perfect massage and body treatments to clients in the salon whilst gaining an understanding of how the body works.
| SHBBBOS002 | Provide body massages |
| SHBBBOS003 | Provide body treatments |
Lymphatic massage helps with toxin and waste removal. Learn the skills and knowledge to provide superficial lymph massage treatments in a salon to help detoxify the body.
| SHBBBOS006 | Provide superficial lymph massage treatments |
Learn up-to-date techniques for applying make-up to allow clients to always look and feel their best.
| SHBBMUP002 | Design and apply make-up |
| SHBBMUP004 | Design and apply remedial camouflage make-up |
Skin is the largest organ of the body so we need to ensure it stays healthy. Here, you will learn how the skin works and the best ways to maximize skin health and minimize damage. You’ll also learn how to perform facial treatments to suit each clients’ skin.
| SHBBFAS002 | Provide facial treatments and skin care recommendations |
Learn the skills and knowledge needed to provide intimate waxing services on female clients.
| SHBBHRS002 | Provide female intimate waxing services |
Learn how to truly relax your client – gain the skills to perform aromatherapy massages with a personalised blend of aromatic oils.
| SHBBBOS004 | Provide aromatherapy massage |
Pay in Full
You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo
You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan. When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Payment Plan
You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.
Zip Money Payment Plan
If you need a little more flexibility with your finances and would like to pay off your course fees over a longer period of time, we can assist by organising Zip Money to pay your course fees directly to us on your behalf, and you pay this loan back to Zip Money over an agreed period of time. Zip Money provides you flexible options of selecting a 24, 36 or 48 months interest-free, payment plan (dependant on which course you’re enrolling into) to suit your lifestyle, giving you more flexibility than ever before.
BPAY®
With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more.
BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.
Ellena has over 15 years' experience in the beauty and cosmetic industry, which started after achieving a Diploma of Beauty Therapy, working in salons, cosmetic clinics, running her own beauty business (specialising in brow-shaping, nails and tanning), supervising work placement students, as well as lecturing experience. Ellena is motivated by helping others to feel better about themselves, being able to pass on her knowledge to students (and seeing them develop and enhance their confidence and skills), and being part of an industry that is continuing to grow and allow therapists to have flexible work arrangements.
Her favourite treatments to teach includes stone therapy massage, nail treatments, brow shaping, lash treatments (including extensions), and tanning.
Kristie has over 10 years’ experience working in salons and day spas combined. She is a highly trained therapist and is motivated by her love for the business. She moved into Education where she can pass on her knowledge to students.
As a trainer Kristie is approachable and patient which makes her classroom and online environment a fun place to relax and learn treatments. She believes Beauty is an ever-evolving industry that will never go out of fashion, and it is important to teach rising therapists or technicians, new and innovative techniques. Tanning, waxing, facials and body massage are Kristie’s favourite treatments to teach and perform in the salon.
This course includes course materials from:
Beauty therapists world wide insist upon Caronlab Australia's superior salon waxes and accessories. Based in Geelong, Australia, the brand had its beginnings in 1979. With a wealth of knowledge and dedicated research and development, Caronlab Australia is the best choice in professional hair removal products and accessories.
Caronlab Australia partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
As an expert in all-natural marine skin care products, Algologie offers a unique and exclusive method based on mineralization, re-balancing the vital functions of the body.
Algologie partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Specialising in unique and intensive skin treatments for a variety of skin problems, Fleur De Mer is proudly Australian made and owned. Its cosmeceutical products are formulated with unique technology to provide quick, visible results so as to satisfy the huge demand for non surgical skin care.
Fleur de Mer partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Hawley is celebrating over 75 years of manufacture and distribution in the nail and beauty industry at both professional and retail level. Hawley strive for a reputation of excellence built on a foundation of quality, innovative products at competitive prices and a high level of friendly, professional service.
Hawley International partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Crown Brush Australia is a leader within the professional make up industry and can offer a number of different products from Pro Brushes, Makeup Palettes, Student Kits and a wide range of cosmetic items.With over 30 years of brush making tradition in the USA and worldwide markets, Crown Brush Australia can offer you the largest range of professional makeup brushes with over 700 different styles.
Crown Australia partners with Open Colleges as a main supplier of beauty kits for the following courses:
Open Colleges students may be eligible to receive discount cards, which will allow them to restock their kits and network with professional suppliers.
The workplace will need to provide beauty treatments and have access to a full comprehensive range of professional products for each practical treatment performed. Examples of suitable workplaces include beauty salons and beauty/retreat spas.
You may be required to complete work placement in multiple salons if your chosen salon does not provide all of the required services.
All costs of work placement including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or OC), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation and uniforms are the responsibility of the student.
Open Colleges Pty Ltd ABN 61 000 011 692 Provider Number 90796 | Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd ABN 82 003 899 527 Provider Number 90197 | YourLife Health & Learning Inc t/a Open Colleges School of Health ABN 39 742 730 429 RTO 40049 CRICOS Provider 03733E
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