The VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy Massage is a substantial vocational qualification that will confirm your competence as a beauty massage therapist. This qualification forms part of an apprenticeship framework, however; some of the treatments covered within this qualification are subject to age restrictions in certain regions, where local council special treatment licensing applies. Employers are also mindful of the sensitive nature of the service, and due to this, the availability of apprenticeships in beauty massage may be limited in some cases. For this reason, the VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy Massage is also offered outside apprenticeships by education and training providers who can offer this course in a real salon environment and provide you with the opportunity to learn beauty massage skills, whilst working on real clients. It is important for you to have the opportunity to learn in a real working environment, particularly because this qualification leads to employment in such a client-centred and service orientated sector.

This qualification is designed for learners aged 16 years or over and will support you to gain employment as a beauty massage therapist, as the units contained in this qualification cover all the skills and knowledge required for this role. Entry onto this qualification can be via previous attainment of a Level 2 qualification in beauty therapy and/or a successful skills test and interview.

This is a vocational qualification and includes all the required elements to work effectively as a beauty massage therapist including, mandatory units covering the following: body massage, Indian head massage, and massage with pre-blended oils, stone therapy, monitoring procedures in the salon and contributing to the planning of a promotional event.

You will also have the opportunity to further develop your understanding and skills by selecting a number of optional beauty therapy units which include: airbrush make-up services, intimate waxing, single eyelash extensions, UV tanning, self-tanning, face and body electrical treatments. The structure of this qualification provides you with the flexibility to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required for the role of beauty massage therapist.

Throughout this qualification you will develop your knowledge and understanding of relevant anatomy and physiology, health and safety, and client care. You will also develop a range of technical skills in massage, using a variety of different techniques. You will also develop interpersonal skills that will assist you to communicate effectively with clients.

This qualification will prepare you for employment as a beauty massage therapist. You will also be eligible to join a professional association and gain insurance as a beauty massage therapist. Career opportunities as a beauty massage therapist exist in a variety of contexts, including:

- Working in commercial beauty salons
- Working in destination and day spas
- Working independently/self-employed/mobile/home-based settings

This is one of two VTCT qualifications in beauty massage therapy at Level 3. Whilst both qualifications qualify you to become a beauty massage therapist, this qualification requires you to work in a commercial salon whereby assessments must be carried out on real paying clients in line with commercial service times.

In contrast, the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy has a purpose of preparing you to enter the beauty therapy sector rather than confirming competence in a specific job role. The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy allows you to gather evidence in a realistic working environment or real working environment without the need for fee paying clients.

This qualification is based on the beauty therapy National Occupational Standards (NOS) and is recognised by the UK's leading professional association, the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) as being fit for purpose to confirm your competence as a beauty massage therapist.. Holders of this qualification are eligible to become a professional member of BABTAC. Further information on BABTAC membership can be found on their website.