Nail Technology C&G Level 3 Diploma
Course code: CP0135
07/09/2026
Is this course right for me?
If you have completed a Level 2 qualification in beauty or nail technology and want to become a a fully qualified nail technician, this course will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need for a rewarding future career in the industry.
You will learn a range of advanced skills, including gel systems, acrylic systems, airbrushing, nail art, 3D and sculpting. You will learn how to deliver first-class customer service and promote products to clients, as well as the importance of health and safety in the workplace – all of which will impress future employers and equip you for a dynamic career in the beauty & nail industry or with the knowledge you need to progress to a higher level of study.
Enrichment
To enhance your learning, you will also get chance to take part in enrichment weeks during which you will be able to learn new techniques such as fibre glass wrap systems, take part in competitions, and complete additional short courses in areas that would be useful to you in the industry.
Work Experience
You will complete 30 hours of work experience in a salon as a mandatory requirement of your course. Please note that you will be expected to arrange your own work experience placement.
Costs
- Kit: you will be required to purchase your own beauty kit (approximately £180)*
- Uniform : a college-approved uniform is compulsory (approximately £50)*
*Financial support may be available to cover some of these costs
Course details
Entry Requirements:
For external applicants:
To access this course, you are required to:
- Successfully completed a Level 2 beauty and/or nail qualification
- GCSE English and maths at Grade 4 or above*
- Beauty/Salon experience (preferred but not essential)
- Demonstrate good communication skills, show friendliness, respect and professionalism, and be able to work effectively as part of a team
- Undertake an interview with a member of the beauty team. You must bring a school report/reference that includes attendance and punctuality.
*If you are just below a grade 4/C in English and maths, but we feel you are suitable for the course, you will be required to attend lessons in these subjects alongside your Beauty qualification – this is a mandatory part of the course. If you already hold a grade 4/C or above in English and maths, you will not need to attend maths and English lessons. However, you will be expected to complete directed study work packs during this time to ensure you meet the required study hours – this is also mandatory.
For internal progression learners (already studying with us):
Learners must be able to demonstrate that they:
- Have successfully completed a relevant course that naturally progresses onto this programme, achieving a good standard
- Have improved their English and maths grades since enrolment
- Have maintained good attendance and punctuality
- Show a consistently positive attitude to learning
What will I learn?
By studying this course you will learn about:
- Health & Safety
- Contribute to the financial effectiveness of the business
- Contribute to the planning & implementation of promotional activities
- UV gel extensions (tips and sculpting on forms)
- Acrylic extensions (tips and sculpting on forms)
- Advanced nail art designs, including 3D and encapsulation
- Theme based and creative nail images – this is an in-house competition
- Airbrush designs for nails
- Electric files (E.File)
What skills will I gain?
By studying this course you will:
- Understand how different nail systems work and how they are applied.
- Develop your confidence in dealing with a wide range of clients.
- Improve your communication and customer service skills.
- Gain valuable team working skills by working as a member of a team in a commercial salon.
- Develop your understanding of the health and safety in the industry.
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course you will be assessed in the following ways:
- Continuous practise (formative) and summative assessments. Each unit will be graded as either a pass or a fail.
- Online multiple-choice tests for each unit as you progress through the course. Please note that some units have 2 tests.
- Completion of 30 hours of beauty-related work experience with an employer, industry practitioner or trainer.
- Production of a portfolio of evidence
What can I do next?
The skills you will learn from this course will enable you to:
- Pursue a career in beauty therapy and related industries
- Progress to a higher level qualification or a university degree in a related field
Future careers
Undecided on your future?
Our Future Finder tool can help you explore options and match them to our courses. City of Wolverhampton College partners with employers and leading universities, ensuring our qualifications are relevant and designed to help you succeed.
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