Victoria University
The Bachelor of Health Science Dermal Therapies is offered by Victoria University and is the only degree course of its type in Australia. The course is designed to address a gap in the cosmetic and health sector that has arisen due to the advent of new technologies and an increased demand for non surgical procedures requiring specifically educated professionals. The major aim of the Dermal Therapies degree is to provide the students with a scientific understanding of the skin and its appendages and the ability to skilfully and knowledgably utilise technologies in the treatment a variety of skin conditions and aesthetic concerns. Dermal Therapies students explore areas such as dermal science, research, psychology, laser safety and light based treatments, electrically based treatments, dermatology, peels, lymphatic and nutrition as well as undertaking an independent research project in their final year. The theoretical components of the course are paired with clinical practice allowing students to gain hand-on skills in class 4 and 3b lasers, pulsed light and photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, ultrasound, and diathermy under the supervision of a senior clinician. Graduates of Dermal Therapies at Victoria University are encouraged to continue with further research via the university’s honours, masters and PhD programs in order to strengthen the industries knowledge base and foster new discoveries. Dermal Therapists have a number of pathways that their degree allows them to pursue. Many Dermal Clinicians are employed by plastic and cosmetic surgery practices, dermal therapy clinics, medical aesthetic companies and in beauty education.