HND Complementary Therapies (SCQF Level 8)

Overview

Do you have a keen interest in therapy treatments, combined with the holistic approach to health and wellbeing, and enjoy working with people? If so, this could be the course for you.

In recent years there has been a considerable increase in interest and demand for complementary and holistic therapies.  This growth is expected to continue, providing employment opportunities to meet the demand from those seeking alternative ways to reduce stress and enhance feelings of general well-being. 

This advanced level course develops skills involved in complementary therapies, including a variety of massage techniques, stress management and health and wellbeing.

It will encourage you to examine alternative methods of enhancing general health and allow you to gain experience and confidence in working with clients. The course is delivered by our dedicated lecturing team, who are highly skilled and have extensive experience within the holistic and complementary therapies profession. 

You'll be able to participate in volunteering opportunities throughout the year, offering treatments in a variety of settings.

On successful completion of the course, you will be a qualified practitioner, eligible for professional membership and insurance as a Complementary Therapist. 

We also offer a one year course in NQ Complementary and Spa Therapies course at the college.

This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8. 

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• Two Highers at Grade C or above preferably English and a Science subject; OR

• NQ Complementary and Spa Therapies (SCQF Level 6) or NC Wellness Therapies; OR

• NC Level 6 in Beauty Care; OR

• Other equivalent qualifications or experience.

Additional selection requirements

You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

Complementary Therapies is an excellent qualification that meets the needs of an expanding and dynamic industry, and also provides a platform for those who wish to progress their studies to degree level. 

The award includes units that underpin knowledge and skills to work as Complementary Therapists in both the public, private and charitable sectors. Subjects studied encourage a holistic approach to restoring or maintaining good health.

Year 1

• Body Massage Treatment.

• Aromatherapy.

• Reflexology.

• Traditional Head Massage.

• Anatomy and Physiology for Beauty and Complementary Therapy.

• Complementary Therapies: Professional Issues and Practice.

• Complementary Therapies: Health and Safety Legislation.

• Perspectives of Health.

• Research and Methodology.

Year 2

• Advanced Reflexology.

• Remedial Massage.

• Complementary Therapies: Stress Management.

• Therapies: Stress Management.

• Human Pathological Processes.

• Lifestyle Advice for Clients.

• Complementary Therapies: Integration in Health Care Services.

After the course

Careers

This course prepares you for a career in the field of complementary therapies, working in NHS Hospitals, hospices or community facilities, private hospices, charitable organisations, private clinics, spas seeking holistic therapies or self-employment.

Continuing study

Students may progress to degree courses in related areas, eg BSc Integrative Health Care, BSc Professional Health Studies.

Teaching

How the course is taught

A variety of learning and teaching methods are used to deliver practical and theory-based subjects, in fully equipped treatment rooms, and IT-enabled classrooms.  You'll carry out practical work on College clients, and will be required to model for treatments.

Assessment methods

The course utilises a variety of assessment methods, including practical observation, case study compilation, research projects and closed book theory papers.

Additional Information

Materials

Materials for the course will be provided, and you may be given the option to purchase a College-approved kit for some specialist units.

Dress code

For practical class, the College approved uniform must be worn, with suitable footwear - details will be supplied.

Longer hair must be tied back, no jewellery on hands or arms, and nails must be short and unvarnished.