The Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy) is one of the highest qualifications in Higher Education available in Australia to identify you as an expert in the rapidly changing area of Dermal Therapy. This qualification will help you accelerate your career by giving you a solid foundation in Dermal Therapy and is also your first step towards a Bachelor of Applied Health Science (Clinical Aesthetics).
The current intake for the Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy) closes November 4th 2024.
Course Overview
Course
Duration:
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Course
Delivery:
Blended delivery with online learning and practical workshops
Total
Subjects:
16 subjects (worth 10 credit points each)
Payment
Options:
FEE-Help and Upfront
The Australasian College of Health & Wellness offers offers eight accredited degrees and undergraduate certificates in Applied Health Science to help recognise you as an expert in the dynamic, rapidly changing field of Aesthetics.
With our diverse faculty of experts, a higher education degree from ACHW is without equal and enables you to truly stand out from the pack.
Our mixture of online learning and practical clinics enables you to study at your preferred pace while providing invaluable hands-on experience.
ACHW offers a wide range of scholarships for registered nurses, future leaders of the health science industry, and passionate industry newcomers.
Develop the skills you need to better manage clients or run your own business through
access to exclusive benefits and ongoing development.
This degree covers four streams giving students an advanced knowledge and inquiry in the following areas:
This subject introduces students to the complexity of the ‘integumentary system’, the skin and related appendages including nails, hair, glands, and proteins and the variety of mechanical, thermal and environmental impacts that affect the ageing process and general health and functioning of the skin.
In this subject student explore the history of health care provision and contextualise it applicable to clinical aesthetics, within the contemporary health care system. Students will study the wide variety of disciplines within modern health care provision and the treatments and technologies used in providing a health care experience for clients, looking into the evolution of health care and the commercial environment of health promotion.
In this subject, students explore the importance of correct dietary intake in order to maintain a healthy skin and body. Students will focus on how bodily functions are directly related to biochemical interactions and nutrition. In addition, this subject will cover nutritional requirements of the body, nutritional make-up of the modern diet/foods and clinical manifestations of nutritional deficiencies.
This subject considers the theories and practices associated with the cosmetic ingredients used in aesthetic practice via the scientific field of cosmetic chemistry, while contrasting this against the marketing ‘hype’ and language often used to promote cosmetic and related products and services. Students will be exposed to the classifications of raw state ingredients and their use in finished products.
This subject introduces students to the wonders of the structure and function of the human body, including an overall introduction of the major body systems, the fundamentals of biochemistry that govern how body components, the structure and function of the communication systems such as the nervous system, the musculoskeletal system, endocrine system and the immune system, and an overview of the reproductive system.
This subject considers the maintenance of body homeostasis through an investigation of the cardiovascular, respiratory and renal systems. An investigation into the electrical and mechanical functions of the heart, its interaction with the blood vessels, the hormones and the autonomic nervous system that control heart function. Also explored is the role of the renal system in the control of the chemical composition of the body, water balance and body fluid volume, and an overview of the respiratory and gastrointestinal system control of homeostasis.
This subject examines in detail the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment protocols of dermatological conditions following inflammatory processes. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of infection and pathology prior to studying some of the more common dermatological conditions and diseases such as acne, eczema and psoriasis to name a few.
This subject builds on the knowledge gained in Human Structure and Function subjects and advances the student’s understandings of the impact of disease and the ways alterations in homeostatic mechanisms disrupt the normative functioning of the human body. The subject concentrates on central concepts of patho-physiology such as how cells and tissues respond to pathogenic challenges, the principles behind genetic disorders and alterations in immunity and inflammation and how these affect the various systems in the body.
The subject is focuses on the socio-cultural, legal and ethical implications of professional therapeutic practice in the aesthetics industry. This subject introduces students to different practice modalities prior to tackling issues of sustainability, reflectiveness and ethics in practice, and also covers the theoretical and philosophical foundations influencing the decision-making processes of the aesthetic practitioner.
The subject is designed to equip students with the oral and written communication skills they require to operate effectively in the workplace and to interact with a diverse clientele and professional medical network. This is achieved through an exploration of both the theoretical and practical dimensions of modern communications, with an emphasis on developing the skills needed to deal with a wide variety of different clinical communications environments.
This subject introduces students to the theories and practices associated with critical thinking and scientific research. It describes the principles of what is known as ‘evidence-based practice’ and explores the research process before looking at some of the ethical and political aspects of research. The subject examines in detail key research paradigms including the two principle approaches to research: quantitative and qualitative research, and introduces students to the key tools and techniques used in data collection and analysis including sampling, surveys, interviews, case studies, observation, experiments, and content analysis.
This subject introduces students to the field of entrepreneurship, innovation, practice management and how associated theories, processes and practices can be applied to the allied health sector. This subject will explore entrepreneurial ways of thinking and how to innovatively and creativity overcome obstacles, the qualities and characteristics of well-known and successful entrepreneurs, and the methods by which new ventures can be created.
This is an introductory subject providing students with opportunities to participate in a learning environment that delivers both a theoretical understanding and practical application of the consultation process utilising both aesthetic and medical classifications and analysis in forming a comprehensive consultation. This subject explores therapeutic communication styles in gaining client history and appropriate record keeping within a practice, and the fundamentals of professional skin care as a base for further clinical aesthetic practices.
This subject provides an opportunity for students to participate in a clinical learning environment that seeks to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application of chemical peeling and microdermabrasion. Students will develop critical thinking from evidence-based knowledge in reviewing patient history and presentation and formulation of appropriate chemical peeling and/or microdermabrasion treatments for predictable outcomes in clinical practice. Additionally, students will be exposed to the safe operating process in the use of laser equipment.
This subject provides an ongoing opportunity for students to participate in a clinical learning environment that seeks to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application of the light therapies used in a clinical aesthetic practice. Students will learn the appropriate and safe use of Light Emitting Diodes (LED) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), while studying the physical theory behind the use of lasers.
This subject provides an opportunity for students to participate in a clinical learning environment that seeks to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application of RF, operation of laser equipment and Micro-needling. Students will develop critical thinking from evidence-based knowledge in reviewing patient history and presentation and delivery of appropriate treatment protocols for predictable outcomes in clinical practice.
In the practical clinics of the Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy), you will gain hands-on experience with the following treatments, technologies, and modalities:
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that uses a minimally abrasive instrument to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin cells, improving skin texture and appearance.
Hydrodermabrasion is a similar treatment to microdermabrasion, but it uses water and oxygen to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin, leaving it softer and smoother.
Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that causes it to exfoliate, revealing smoother, brighter skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Laser/IPL hair reduction uses targeted light energy to damage the hair, reducing hair growth in the treated area.
Skin needling, also known as microneedling, involves using a device with tiny needles to create small punctures in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture and tone.
Laser tattoo removal uses high-intensity light energy to break up the ink particles in a tattoo, allowing the body to naturally remove them over time.
Laser/IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) for pigmentation and vascular removal uses targeted light energy to break down excess pigmentation or blood vessels in the skin, reducing the appearance of conditions such as sun damage, rosacea, and spider veins.
Plasma pen technology uses ionized gas to create a small electrical arc that tightens and lifts skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, while also used to remove some benign lesions.
Electrical facial treatments involve using low-level electrical currents to stimulate and improve circulation, or as a anti germicidal, resulting in a brighter, more toned complexion.
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and boost the immune system. It is often used as a pre and post-operative treatment or for people with lymphedema.
On completion of the course, the students will be able to:
CLO 1: Integrate health industry standards, ethics, techniques and technologies, and apply theoretical and practical knowledge in advanced therapeutic interventions and treatments within a context of occupational health and safety practices and standards
CLO 2: Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, histology and applied health sciences to the application of dermal therapy and treatments.
CLO 3: Analyse available resources to undertake research, comprehend and evaluate new information and developments in order to inform professional and clinical practice.
CLO 4: Apply acquired skills and knowledge for problem-solving, analysis and synthesis within a professional context.
CLO 5: Adapt techniques and technologies in a supervised learning environment to support personalised development and the integration of theory and practice to construct effective dermal treatments.
CLO 6: Develop reflective practice through teamwork, active participation, versatility and adaptability within a health care context.
CLO 7: Foster a supportive learning community to develop interpersonal communication effectiveness, be aware of and have sensitivity to manage the diverse needs of clients in the clinic environment and to have a commitment to life- long learning.
To satisfy the academic admissions requirements for the Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy), applicants must:
A. Meet one of the following entry requirements:
a. Successful completion of the relevant State’s HSC (or equivalent), with an ATAR or equivalent of 65 or above; or
b. Successful completion of a VET or HE Diploma or above within the last 5 years; or
c. Admission to candidature for an undergraduate degree at an Australian University; or
d. Satisfactory completion of an approved Tertiary Preparation Program, Tertiary Orientation Program or a Foundation Year Program offered by a University, an accredited higher education provider or a Registered Training Organisation.
B. And must meet all below requirements:
e. participate in an interview (if required);
f. be at least 18 years of age; and
g. where English is not the first language, evidence of English Proficiency at IELTS 6.0 with no band below 5.5, or equivalent to be provided.
ACHW will also consider any other documentation which demonstrates an applicant’s academic and time management skills including from formal studies, workplace activities or research. If an applicant is unable to demonstrate their academic study skills, they may be required to complete and pass an Academic Study Skills Test.v
For more information on entry criteria please visit the ACHW How to Apply page.
Completing the Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy) will prepare you for work in such areas as:
We have a lot of support resources and an academic learning advisor that provides coaching and reviews draft assessments before submission for extra guidance.
This is a 2-year health science degree specialising in skin and dermal therapy.
This is a degree-level qualification in dermal therapy of the aesthetics field. It provides you a deeper understanding of the science of the skin, health, and wellness and will teach you the most popular advanced, intensive skin treatments used in the industry.
It will help you stand out in the industry, assist you in managing your own business in the aesthetics industry, and enable you to continue your study toward the Bachelor of Applied Health Science (Clinical Aesthetics), which is the highest level of qualification available in Australia.
The Associate Degree can be completed in 2 years of full-time study or up to 4 years if choosing to study part time.
No, you do not need a beauty qualification or industry experience. Entry requirements is a Diploma in any field within the last 5 years, or ATAR or equivalent of 65, or entry through our Academic Study Skills Unit.
We can do further assessment based on your industry experience and any other qualifications you may have. You can complete the Academic Study Skills Unit to support entry.
A short course consisting of 6 topics designed to build academic skills such as writing and researching.
For each unit there is a one-hour weekly lecture to listen to and additional readings, with additional activities such as quizzes, discussions, assignments, and online exams. Each unit has 3-4 assessment tasks with due dates throughout the semester required to be completed.
It is recommended to spend a few hours each week per unit to listen to the lecture and review all the reading, then additional time for self-study and preparation and completion of assessment tasks.
Most students can get a job within the industry whilst studying and then move into their preferred field once completed. Completion of a degree in this field should allow for entry into management level positions within the industry.
All theory components are completed online including assessments. There are 5 units within the degree that have face-to-face practical block sessions consisting of 5-6 days within the unit. Clinics are held in NSW, VIC, and QLD.
You can enrol into the theory- only units to begin with and then do the practical units in a semester that you will be able to attend.
Some of the practical treatments you will learn are:
NSW – Sydney
QLD – Brisbane and Gold Coast
VIC – Melbourne
No, to be able to do injecting you need to be a doctor or nurse.
A laptop or computer with internet access and a working webcam.
Lectures are recorded and therefore not needed to attend live. However, most units have interactive sessions every few weeks that are live with the facilitator to go over any areas students would like more help with. These are scheduled at the commencement of the semester and are recorded if you are not able to attend.
You must complete all assessment tasks and get an overall mark of 50% for the units to pass.
You can upgrade to the Bachelor degree after successful completion.
The ACHW Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy) is accredited with TEQSA and meets the requirements of a Level 6 qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
This course is not CRICOS registered and as such enrolments from Student Visa holders cannot be accepted.