Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology
Your Route to a Professional Career in Nail Technology
Develop the skills and confidence to design, enhance, and maintain beautiful nails with professional precision — preparing you for a rewarding career in the beauty industry.
The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology gives learners advanced technical training to provide, maintain, and enhance nail treatments on both hands and feet.
You’ll learn how to carry out manicure and pedicure services, apply and maintain nail enhancements, and design bespoke nail art — developing the creativity, confidence, and professional standards to work across salons, spas, or self-employed settings.
You’ll learn how to:
Deliver professional manicure and pedicure services
Apply, maintain, and safely remove nail enhancements
Design and apply nail art using advanced techniques
Maintain salon health and safety and professional hygiene
Promote products and services to grow client relationships
Level:
3 Diploma
Total Qualification Time:
510 hours
Credits:
51
Minimum Age:
16+
Assessment:
Portfolio of evidence, practical observation & written papers
Study Mode:
Classroom and practical-based
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Learners aged 16+ interested in a creative beauty career
Nail technicians aiming to advance their skills to Level 3
Salon professionals wanting to offer new nail services
Aspiring freelancers looking to start their own nail business
Course Content
You’ll complete six mandatory units and choose from optional units to personalise your learning.
Mandatory Units:
Apply and Maintain Nail Enhancements
Provide Manicure Treatments
Provide Pedicure Treatments
Client Care and Communication in Beauty-Related Industries
Monitor and Maintain Health and Safety Practice in the Salon
Maintain Personal Health and Wellbeing
Optional Units (examples):
Design and Apply Nail Art
Airbrush Designs for Nails
Enhance Nails Using Electric Files
Promote Products and Services to Clients
Display Stock to Promote Sales
How You’ll Be Assessed
Assessment is continuous and practical, ensuring you’re fully prepared for real-world salon work. You’ll build a portfolio of evidence through:
Assessor observations
Written and oral questioning
Assignments and projects
Case studies and reflective work
External written papers (for selected units)
Witness statements and client feedback
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Nail Technician
Salon or Spa Therapist
Freelance or Mobile Nail Artist
Beauty Retail Specialist
Progression routes include:
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Nail Services
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy General
Level 3 Award in Nail Enhancements and Advanced Hand & Nail Art Techniques
Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy
Entry Requirements
- No formal prerequisites
- Aged 16 or above
- Enthusiasm for nail artistry and customer care
- Good communication and organisational skills
Why Choose Accacia Training?
- Learn from qualified, industry-experienced tutors
- Train in professional salon environments
- Access the latest tools, products, and techniques
- Build a professional portfolio for your career
- Pathways to employment and further progression
Support Hub
Do I need previous experience?
No. This course is designed to build your technical skills and knowledge from the ground up.
What will I learn?
You’ll learn to apply, maintain, and remove nail enhancements, perform manicure and pedicure treatments, and provide nail art services.
Will I get a recognised qualification?
Yes — this VTCT qualification is nationally recognised and industry approved.
How long does the course take?
Typically 12–15 months depending on delivery format and learner pace.
What career opportunities are available?
You can work as a qualified nail technician in a salon, spa, or start your own business.
