Glasgow Clyde College (GCC) is introducing an innovative UK degree-level qualification: the Advanced Leadership in the Spa and Beauty Industry course. This new programme, available for an August 2025 intake, is officially credit-rated at SCQF Level 9 and has been coined as the ‘MBA for the spa and beauty industries.’

The internationally recognised degree is designed to provide beauty and spa therapists with the essential skills to excel in leadership and management roles, directly addressing the industry's need for skilled managers and business owners.

Who can apply?

The course has been created for experienced beauty and spa therapists who are ready to take the next step in their careers, whether that is to launch a business, lead a team or manage a salon or spa.

Priced at £2,149 (US$2,707, €2,594), the degree takes 72 weeks to complete and involves a weekly three-hour in-person seminar every Tuesday evening.

The qualification has been developed by GCC in collaboration with industry leaders including Gleneagles, Trump Turnberry, Auchrannie Spa and Cameron House.

What’s included?The programme aims to go far beyond surface-level training and offer a deep dive into crucial areas including:

• Client psychology and communication. • Advanced therapies and training.

• Business management and leadership.

Students will also learn about product innovation and develop a signature product range and pitch their ideas to industry experts, including those from Professional Beauty Systems (PBS).

Julie Wales, head of sector for The Faculty of Health, Wellbeing and Management at GCC, said: "We’ve teamed up with industry leaders to craft a next-level programme that takes seasoned pros and levels them up to be the game-changers of tomorrow.

“This isn’t your average course, it’s a power-packed experience built to create bold thinkers, savvy managers and unstoppable entrepreneurs. We’re not just teaching skills – we’re building future bosses.

“Every graduate will have the tools at their disposal to be key influencers in driving a smarter, stronger and more future-proof industry."

GCC recently launched the course during an event at its Langside Campus, which saw talks from key guest speakers including Lesley Blair, MBE, CEO and chair at the British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology and the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology.

To learn more about the Advanced Leadership in the Spa and Beauty Industry course, follow this link.