Hair, Beauty and Complimentary Therapy
Nail Services, Gel Application and Gel Enhancements
Campus Milton Road Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 5
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This new and exciting 18-week evening course will provide you with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to work competently and perform manicures, nail art, gel polish application and gel enhancements.
The course is designed for individuals with no prior experience in the beauty industry but a strong desire and interest in nail aesthetics.
There is an opportunity to take E-Filing training at an additional cost at the end of the course.
On completion of this course, you will be fully qualified to carry out these skills in the Beauty Industry and/or further your studies with our Beauty courses.
This course is VTCT and ABT Accredited
Please Note:
- The cost of the course is £650, which includes the Kit. Payment must be made before the course begins. To guarantee a place, course fees should be paid as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. (NB: course fees are non-refundable once the course has started)
- Some theory will be delivered online - you will be required to have access to IT to enable you to complete this part of the course, e.g., a laptop, Pc, iPhone, Android phone
We also ask all students to adhere to the dress code for the department as follows:
- Black Trousers
- Black T-Shirt
- Black Shoes
Training at Edinburgh College will enhance your employability prospects, as we offer exceptional facilities and highly qualified lecturers. You will work in our salons and studios, providing a realistic industry environment. This training will give you valuable practical experience and is a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career as a nail technician.
If you are interested in being a model for our students or would like to try out our facilities before starting your course, you can book in for a treatment.
Hair Salons, Beauty Salons and Barbershop | Edinburgh College
What you will learn- Basic Manicure - Filing, shaping, buffing, cuticle work and nail polish application on the hands and fingernails.
- Nail Art - Range of freehand nail art designs and products.
- Gel Nail Application – Application and removal.
- Gel Nail Extensions – Tip application and overlay.
- BIAB Training
- Opportunity for additional training for E-File will be offered for an additional cost at the end of the course
Placement information
- There is no work placement required for this course.
How the course is assessed
- All practical assessments are conducted for paying clients in our salons.
- The theoretical aspects of the course will be covered under exam conditions.
- Completing open-book and closed-book assessments.
Number of days per week
- 1 evening per week for 18 weeks, 6 PM until 8.30 PM on a Tuesday - Milton Road Campus
- Plus 6 hours of self-directed study
Or
- 1 afternoon per week for 18 weeks. 1.30 PM until 4 PM on a Thursday - Granton Campus
- Plus 6 hours of self-directed study
Entry requirements
- All applicants must be at least 18 years of age before the course begins and have paid the full course fee.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- There is no formal interview process; however, all applicants must be at least 18 years of age by the course start date and have paid the course fee in full.
Hair and Beauty Applicant Privacy Notice
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- On completion of this course, you will be fully qualified to carry out Nail Services in the industry or progress to further your studies as a Nail Technician with our E-File course.
or
With our Full-Time Beauty, Spa, Complementary Therapies and/or other short courses
Career options
- Employment within the Beauty Industry.
- Self-employed to carry out Nail Services treatments.
- Further your studies with our Full-Time Beauty, Spa, Complementary Therapies and/or other short courses.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Evening | 25/08/26 |
