Skip to main content

Level 3 Diploma in Complementary Therapies

Summary

This is a professional qualification designed to prepare learners for a career as a multi‑disciplined complementary therapist. The course develops the knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required to work safely and effectively with clients in a range of complementary therapy settings. 

Comprising specialist modules in aromatherapy, massage therapy and reflexology, the course is designed to offer prospective therapists the opportunity to develop an extensive skills set with which to launch their professional career or provide existing therapists and those working in related fields the chance to significantly complement the skills they already have. 

The course is very industry-focused with an emphasis on learning best practice techniques and is taught by tutors with a wealth of experience in the beauty therapy sector.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
04 Jan 2027
Bispham Campus
21 Weeks

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

This qualification can lead to employment within the complementary therapy and wellbeing sector, including roles such as complementary therapist, massage therapist, aromatherapist or reflexologist. Learners may work in settings such as clinics, salons, spas, health and wellbeing centres, or progress into self‑employment as a freelance or mobile therapist.

Next steps at B&FC

N/A

Other study options

On successful completion of this qualification, learners may progress to advanced and specialist training with external training providers and higher education institutions. Progression opportunities include:

  • Level 4 Diploma in Complementary Therapies
  • Foundation degrees or higher education pathways in complementary or holistic health

Employment Opportunities

Complementary Therapist | Massage Therapist | Aromatherapist | Reflexologist.

Key information

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. Learners must demonstrate a genuine passion for the complementary therapies industry and be able to commit the necessary time and effort required for a fast‑paced qualification.

Qualification obtained

Diploma in Complementary Therapies

Extra costs and equipment

All uniform and equipment will be provided at no cost to learners.

What will I learn?

You will study a range of mandatory units designed to develop both practical and professional skills, including:

  • Principles and practice of complementary therapies
  • Business practice for complementary therapies
  • Knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology for complementary therapies
  • Providing body massage for complementary therapies
  • Providing aromatherapy for complementary therapies
  • Providing reflexology for complementary therapies

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Industry placements do not form part of this course. In addition, field trips and guest speakers are not included within the planned programme.

How will I learn?

Learners will develop their skills through a combination of practical and theoretical learning. This will include observing practical demonstrations, practising techniques on peers and external clients, and receiving taught theory sessions to support underpinning knowledge and safe practice.

Expert tutors

All tutors involved in the delivery of courses and apprenticeships within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.

Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and a familiarity with professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich students’ learning experience, giving them an insight into what working in the industry is really like.

How will I be assessed?

The course is assessed through a range of assessment methods. The modules covering individual therapies include an assignment which allows delegates to demonstrate they have acquire the background knowledge which underpins each therapy, together with case studies and a practical examination to show that they have mastered its practical application. Other modules feature additional assignments and multiple choice questions which are designed to ensure a thorough and professional understanding of the industry. All modules must be completed  successfully for the diploma to be awarded.