Certificate in Manicure and Pedicure (including Gel Polish Techniques)

NFQ Level 4

Start your beauty career with confidence. Learn real salon skills in manicure and pedicure, and step into the industry with a recognised qualification.

Available Locations:

Letterkenny

(Ref: 529700)

Starts: 09/09/2026

18 Weeks

Apply Now

Letterkenny

(Ref: 529700)

Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.

What You'll Learn

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

Perform professional manicure and pedicure treatments using industry-standard techniques, tools, and products.
Apply hygiene, health, and safety practices to ensure a safe and clean working environment for clients and practitioners.
Consult with clients effectively to identify their needs, recommend suitable treatments, and provide aftercare advice.
Demonstrate knowledge of nail structure and conditions, understanding how to treat common nail and skin issues safely.
Use a range of manicure and pedicure techniques, including nail shaping, cuticle care, exfoliation, massage, and polish application.
Maintain professional standards in appearance, communication, and customer service within a salon or mobile setting.
Prepare and manage treatment areas efficiently, ensuring readiness for client appointments and compliance with industry regulations.

This course is designed to provide occupational competence at Level 2 comparable to the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 4.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) Level 2 Certificate in Manicure and Pedicure and Level 2 Award in Gel Polish Techniques.

Timetable & Modules

Timetable:

This course will take place in person, on Wednesday evenings from 6pm-10pm.

Module	Title
H/617/7251	ITEC – Manicure and Pedicure
L/617/4327	ITEC – Apply Light Cured Polish

Progression / Career

This qualification opens doors to employment as a manicurist and pedicurist in nail salons, spas, hotels, health clubs, and on cruise ships, or to self-employment – starting a mobile or home-based business.

You may also choose to progress to further training for example the Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology or progress to areas such as Beauty Therapy to build on your skills and expand on your career opportunities within the industry.

Entry Requirements

This course is suitable for students aged 16 years old and over.
Students must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to gain the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Previous experience in a salon is an advantage but not a requirement.
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.

Eligibility

Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.

Cost / Fees

€465

Please note: A small fee will be required towards the cost of your tunic, utensils and kit. This will be discussed in more detail during your application process.

We will talk to you about course fees and potential fee reductions and fee waivers during your application process.

Share This Course:

Real Students, Real Results!

While the focus for most of us on the course was achieving the D licence, there were lots of extras like First Aid, Tourism Visitor Care and Gluais training which I found very useful when I went looking for a job as I had more than just the D licence to offer to an employer.

Dylan Robinson

Qualified Tour Bus Driver, Driving With Tourism Graduate,

“I couldn’t recommend further education and training with Donegal College enough as it provides a great way back into education, to further education or to get a job.”

Shannon Shelby Driscoll

Qualified Teacher and Early Childhood Care and Education Graduate

“I thought there was never a chance for me to go and do nursing. I left school early because I became a mum at a young age and I didn’t have a Leaving Certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone.”

Elaine Tinney

Tertiary Degree Access Route into General Nursing (B.Sc. Hons) Recent Graduate

“The support started from the reception, when you come to Donegal College it is a special atmosphere.”

Yuliia Vaniukova

ACCA Graduate

“With a small class we were able to get comfortable around each other and we were never afraid to ask a question.”

Miranda Darnell

Animal Care Graduate

“It has brought me on so much to believe that any of us are capable of something in the right environment and with people supporting you.”

Lisa Doherty

Pathway to Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning Studies, Graduate

Need Help Applying For a Course at Donegal College?

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Courses FAQ's

Who can apply for Donegal College courses?

Our courses are open to school leavers, lifelong learners, job seekers, employees, and employers looking to upskill or reskill.

How do I apply for a course?

You can make your applications for full-time and part-time courses online; you can start the process here on the Donegal College website. Click ‘APPLY‘ on the course of your choice; this redirects you to Fetchcourses.ie, where your application will be processed using the FETCH Courses website and system.

If you haven’t signed up for a FETCH account, you’ll be required to do so first; this is a one-time setup.

Are the Donegal College courses accredited?

Yes. Many of our courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), typically Levels 4–6, as well as awards from ILM, City & Guilds, and other industry-recognised bodies.

Where do the courses take place?

Courses are delivered across Donegal at one of our 19 Donegal College campuses, certain courses are delivered in community venues in your local area, various courses are delivered online or through blended learning, and training can be offered on-site at your business, depending on the course.

Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?

The first step is to secure a job with an approved apprentice employer. An Apprenticeship is a three-way contract of employment between you, your employer and SOLAS, with on-the-job and off-the-job training delivered in phases. Full details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie

To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie