The Foundation Programme
Your path to becoming a cosmetologist and skin therapist
The foundation programme at Nordic Skin College is a DKF-accredited programme that gives you a solid professional base in skincare, beauty and well-being. The programme lasts 12-24 months, depending on whether you choose day or part-time classes, and combines theoretical instruction with practical clinic experience.
You learn to understand the skin in depth and work professionally with people who seek treatment, care and results.
Programme structure
The foundation programme is module-based and covers both theory and practice:
Theoretical subjects:
On our cosmetology programme, Anatomy and Physiology plays a central role as one of the most important theoretical disciplines.
Read more Apparatus, Electrotherapy & PhysicsIn the subject Apparatus, Electrotherapy and Physics you learn to understand and use the technological tools that are today an integral part of modern skincare.
Read more Dermatology & PathologyThe subject Dermatology and Pathology gives you the necessary insight into skin diseases, changes and imbalances.
Read more Nutritional PhysiologyIn the subject Nutritional Physiology you learn how diet and nutrients affect the body and the skin.
Read more EthicsThe subject Ethics is the cornerstone of the professional role as a cosmetologist.
Read more Colour Theory and DesignThe subject Colour and Form Theory develops your creative eye and your ability to work with aesthetics on a professional level.
Read more Specialisation ProjectIn this concluding subject you work with depth, reflection and communication of your expertise.
Read more CPR & First AidThe subject CPR and First Aid gives you vital knowledge and practical skills that can save lives.
Read more Skin AnalysisThe subject Skin Analysis teaches you to understand the skin on a professional level.
Read more SkincareThe subject Skincare is the core of the cosmetologist's practical work.
Read more Skin Types, Conditions & ElementsThe subject Skin Types, Skin Conditions and Skin Elements is the foundation for performing professional and targeted treatments.
Read more HygieneThe subject Hygiene is one of the most important foundational elements in the cosmetology programme.
Read more Client PsychologyClient Psychology is about understanding the people you work with - not just their skin, but also their feelings, behaviour and needs.
Read more MicrobiologyMicrobiology is about the microorganisms that live on and around us - and that can affect both the skin and the treatment environment.
Read more Product ScienceIn this subject you learn to understand what cosmetic products actually contain - and how they work on the skin.
Read more Sales TechniqueSales Technique is not about selling - it is about advising, inspiring and building trust.
Read more Business EconomicsIn the subject Business Economics we equip you to understand and manage the financial aspects of life as a cosmetologist.
Read morePractical subjects:
A thorough analysis is the starting point for every professional treatment.
Read more Facial TreatmentFacial treatment is one of the cosmetologist's most important areas of work - and in this subject you learn to perform the treatment professionally, safely and tailored to the client's skin type...
Read more Apparatus Treatments FaceModern facial treatments often include technological tools that enhance results and create visible improvements.
Read more Apparatus Treatments BodyTechnological body treatments are gaining increasing popularity in the beauty industry.
Read more Needle EpilationNeedle epilation (electrolysis) is a method of permanent hair removal that requires technical skill, concentration and understanding of the skin's reactions.
Read more ErgonomicsAs a cosmetologist you use your body actively every day - often in repetitive movements and static positions.
Read more Lash and Brow TintingLash and brow tinting is a popular and in-demand treatment that creates striking results with minimal effort.
Read more Brow ShapingBrow shaping is a precision treatment where you learn to analyse facial features and create the right shape that enhances the client's eyes and brings harmony to the expression.
Read more HygieneHygiene is one of the cosmetologist's most important core competences.
Read more Body TreatmentsBody treatments combine skincare, sensory experience and well-being.
Read more Body MassageBody massage is a central part of the cosmetologist's treatment repertoire.
Read more Client Care and ExamsThe exams mark the end of your programme - and the beginning of your professional career.
Read more Client Cards for Each TreatmentAn up-to-date and accurate client card is an important part of the professional treatment process.
Read more MakeupMakeup is a creative and technical subject where you learn to enhance the face's natural beauty and create different expressions that match the client's style, occasion and personality.
Read more ManicureManicure is much more than nail polish - it is a professional hand treatment that combines aesthetics, well-being and hygiene.
Read more PedicurePedicure is a popular treatment that combines care, relaxation and aesthetics.
Read more WaxingWaxing is an effective method of temporary hair removal that requires technique, precision and knowledge of the skin.
Read moreClinic practice
A central part of the programme takes place in our clinic at Kongens Nytorv, where you treat real clients under supervision from experienced instructors. Here you put theory into practice and build the routine and confidence you need as a graduate.
Duration and class types
- Day class: Approx. 12 months
- Part-time class: Approx. 18 months - Monday, Wednesday and Friday
- Part-time class (evening/weekend): Approx. 24 months
We start new classes three times a year: January, April and September. This gives you the opportunity to find a time that fits your life.
DKF-accredited quality
The programme is accredited by the Danish Cosmetologist Association (DKF), which is the industry’s independent quality guarantee. A DKF-accredited programme ensures that you meet the professional requirements demanded in the industry and gives you the opportunity for DKF membership upon graduation.
Want to build on the foundation programme?
Add specialisations as needed, or choose the extended programme with all 10 specialisations from the start - you save more than 20,000 DKK compared to adding them individually.
Is the foundation programme right for you?
The programme is for you if you want to work professionally with skin and beauty. Whether you are embarking on your first career or want to change direction, the foundation programme gives you the professional base you need.
Next steps:
- Book a guided tour and see the school and clinic
- Order free information materials and read more at your leisure
- See classes and prices for current class starts