Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing
SHB50321 Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing
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SHB50321 is the Australian nationally recognised Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing, listed on the National Training Register. It reflects the role of cosmetic tattooists who design and provide cosmetic tattooing services, working autonomously and accountable for personal outputs. Their work involves self-directed application of specialised knowledge and experience to consult, design and manage sequential treatment programs, and practitioners operate within a defined scope of practice, using initiative and judgement to refuse or refer treatments as required. Work is typically conducted in beauty salons and skin clinics. The qualification requires 9 units: 4 core units covering cosmetic tattooing consultations, colour theory and pigmentology, elements and principles of design, and the function and structure of skin and hair, plus 5 elective units. Electives include one unit from Group A (Infection Control), at least one and up to three units from Groups B to F (Eyebrows, Lips, Eyes, Scalp Micropigmentation, Breast Areola), and the remaining units from the listed electives. Completing all electives in one group earns a named specialisation. There are no entry requirements. To prepare, study the packaging rules, understand each core and elective unit's scope, and confirm prerequisite units marked with an asterisk.
What you'll study
About Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing preparation
How many units must I complete for SHB50321?
You must complete 9 units: 4 core units and 5 elective units. The electives consist of 1 unit from Group A (Infection Control), at least 1 and up to 3 units from Groups B to F, and the remaining units selected from the electives listed in the qualification.
Are there any entry requirements?
No. The National Training Register states there are no entry requirements for this qualification. However, cosmetic tattooing is subject to skin penetration regulation in some states and territories, and the supply of topical anaesthetics is restricted in some states and territories, so check local requirements.
What are the core units?
The four core units are SHBBCOS001 Provide cosmetic tattooing consultations, SHBBCOS002 Apply knowledge of colour theory and pigmentology to cosmetic tattooing, SHBBCOS003 Incorporate elements and principles of design to cosmetic tattooing, and SHBBSSC004 Identify the function and structure of skin and hair for cosmetic tattooing.
How do I earn a specialisation such as Eyebrows or Lips?
All Group B electives must be selected for the Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing (Eyebrows). All Group C electives must be selected for Lips, Group D for Eyes, Group E for Scalp Micropigmentation, and Group F for Breast Areola. Completing two or more specialisations records them together in the award title.
Do any elective units have prerequisites?
Yes. Units marked with an asterisk include one or more prerequisite units of competency. In the elective list, SHBBCOS004, SHBBCOS005, SHBBCOS006, SHBBCOS007 and SHBBCOS008 are marked with an asterisk. Refer to each individual unit for details of its prerequisites before enrolling.
What should I study first?
Start with the four core units, since they build the consultation, colour theory, design and skin and hair knowledge that underpins practical tattooing. Then complete your Group A infection control unit before moving into the Groups B to F technique units, and finish with Group G general electives if you need them.
What is the most common mistake candidates make?
Misreading the packaging rules. You need exactly one Group A unit, at least one and up to three units from Groups B to F, and the remaining units from the listed electives. Assuming a specialisation is automatic, or overlooking asterisked prerequisites, are frequent errors worth checking before you enrol.
Is there an occupational licence required?
The register states no occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication. It also notes that cosmetic tattooing is subject to skin penetration regulation in some states and territories, so verify any local requirements separately.