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ALP + Extended Diploma in Beauty Specialists

CS3-W09-25alp+ Institute of Community Services

Programme of Study offered on Full Time basis as per MCAST Course Offering – Prospectus 2026/27
It is recommended that you visit How to Apply for further information regarding how to submit an online application, as well as important Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
MQF / EQF LevelLevel 3
Duration2 Years Full-Time
ECTS Credits36 ECTS credits at MQF Level 2 and 60 ECTS credits at MQF Level 3
Work Based Learning

Placement / Internship

Course Description

This course is aimed at learners who have successfully completed their studies at the Alternative Learning Programme of the Ministry for Education, and are interested in pursuing further vocational studies at MQF Level 3, related to beauty and complementary therapies. This course focuses on the knowledge and skills required for eventual employment at beauty specialist level in the beauty sector. The combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge gained by sucessfully completing the course, will equip learners with the knowledge and skills with which they will be able to access the labour market, or alternatively, they will be eligible to continue their studies at MQF level 4 at MCAST, by selecting one of the various Advanced Diplomas offered by the College, in their preferred area of study.

This programme of studies offers learners the possibility to seek employment in salons as Beauty Specialists. Alternatively, learners who complete successfully this full-time course may wish to consider furthering their studies by progressing to the Level 4 Advanced Diploma programme in Beauty and Complementary Therapies. Learners are taught how to develop and carry out individual treatment plans based on the specific requirements of each client. The programme of studies offers instruction on serveral treatments that include skin care, manicure and pedicure, depilation, nails, make-up services, eyebrow and eyelash treatments. Other modules relate to health and safety practices in the salon and business aspects including business plans, effective communication skills and proper conduct with clients. Learners are required to purchase the necessary hairdressing and beauty accessories at the beginning of the academic year.

Career Opportunities

Beauty Specialist,

Sales Representative for Beauty Products

Entry Requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed the one-year ALP programme and obtained at least an MQF Level 1 in Maltese, English and Mathematics TOGETHER WITH an MQF Level 2 in TWO vocational subjects forming part of the ALP Programme – as clearly documented by the official ALP School Leaving Certificate / SSQP

Other notes related to this programme

No other entry routes are considered for this specific programme of studies (Maturity Clause application is not applicable for this programme). An applicant who does not have the ALP School Leaving Certificate, may wish to have a look at a Level 3 programme in the same thematic area within the same Institute.

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