New for 2026: NZLT Institute IPL & Laser Technician Theory Diploma
Follow this pre-set Diploma option, which differs from our flexible Diplomas because it is delivered over 26 weeks and includes extensive self-guided, theory-based online learning for: Laser Safety, Client Care, Hair Removal, Skin Rejuvenation and Laser Tattoo Removal
Discover our exciting new Diploma, designed to equip you with the most comprehensive IPL and Laser theory skills for successful entry or formally recognised upskilling in the Beauty or Medical aesthetics Industry
Whether you're just starting out or looking to upskill while working in the aesthetic laser industry, this programme prepares you to excel.
Gain a solid understanding of NZ health laws and your duty of care when performing IPL and Laser treatments for conditions like acne, rosacea, pigmentation, vascular lesions, skin redness, collagen and anti-ageing, and laser tattoo removal.
Learn how to establish a compliant business or elevate an existing one to industry standards, supported by thorough theoretical training in Hair Removal, Skin Rejuvenation, and Laser Tattoo removal.
Flexible, Self-Paced Learning That Fits Around You
We know that life is busy — which is why this Diploma has been designed to be completed at your own pace, with extensive theory-based online learning, over 26 weeks.
Complete while you are working in a clinic, or start it while you are seeking work in the industry!
IPL & Laser Technician Theory Diploma Overview
Open Entry Requirements
A genuine interest and commitment to learning and studying
Suitable for diligent students or mature learners aged 18+ years;
You do not need to be working in the industry to start this learning.
International students are welcome to enrol and study from overseas. This programme may be suitable if you intend to immigrate to NZ and gain work here - e.g.: learn all about the regulations that apply to you while you work here in New Zealand. Please note: we cannot assist you with work placement.
Study Commitment
Complete 7 comprehensive modules of theory-based study over 26 weeks in a pre-set learning pathway.
Study between 5 - 10 hours per week to stay on track.
You won’t be doing this alone, our qualified tutors are available to offer you support throughout this NZLT IPL & Laser Technician Theory Diploma journey - lodge a support request when you need assistance to trigger a call back.
Diploma Cost: $5,995 + GST.
Pathways to Practical Training
Option 1: (Ideally) - Purchase a device during the Diploma Programme to receive selected FREE practical training via a supplier we have partnered with. This can be anywhere in New Zealand with no hidden travel fees.
Investment in devices range from: $30,000 - $50,000 + GST estimate.
Option 2: Request NZLT Institute led practical training on your device (optional for this Diploma). The cost for this option is an additional $5200 + travel costs for 4 days of practical training on your device.
Option 3: Have your own trainer, or another supplier provide the required practical training for you. NB: Most Australian-based suppliers charge $1800 AUD per day for training.
Certification Gained
On the successful completion of all theory in this online Diploma, you would then be issued a Diploma Certificate called “NZLT Institute IPL and Laser Technician Theory Diploma”.
Enrolment Options
Option 1: Express Self-enrol - instant start (link- payment- log in)
Option 2: Follow and enrolment form link - our team will guide you and set you up manually - allow up to 48 hours - available in business hours
Check out your weekly learning schedule
A workbook is available to download, write your notes in as you progress and refer back to in the further.
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Completed online via our online learning platform
Before you can start learning about using IPL or Lasers, you must understand the risks associated with operating these devices. This includes learning some laser terminology, accessing information about regulations, scope of practice, engineering controls, PPE, machine maintenance and servicing and much more.
Includes multiple practice quizzes and learner assignment activities.
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In this module you will be looking at the expectations of you as an operator, client consultations and the required paperwork for consultation and consent process as it relates to IPL and Laser treatments. You will learn more about the rights of clients, and the steps required to undertake treatments. Learn more about the risks of treatments as it relates to clients of different skin types , this also will come in handy when you decide which technology is safest and the best to select. You will learn about consumer laws in NZ and how to manage a complaint process as a true professional should. Look at real world scenarios that have occurred here in New Zealand and understanding how having a laser safety management programme in place will prevent this happening to you in the future.
Includes multiple practice quizzes and learner assessment.
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In this module you will learn about Laser and Intense light sources, commonly called ‘IPL’, and the science behind how these devices work, differ and how they relate to scientific principles. This information will become important when you want to alter settings and better understand how to optimise treatments for your clients. Learn about electromagnetic spectrum and be able to identify any given device and what it is capable of, no matter what brand or type it is, as well as treatment parameters and what role each plays in giving the best result and for safety reasons; what to change and why. You will discover why generic science is so important regardless of what role you hope to have in the industry; or where, or what you want to work with in the future. It is important to know why some treatments do not work as expected and this is what you will be learning so you can become a technically savvy laser or IPL technician. You will become a laser science nerd by mastering the basics of devices and how to tell them apart. By the end of this module, you will be able to correctly label and identify various types of devices and which is used for skin rejuvenation, hair removal and laser tattoo removal.
Includes multiple practice quizzes and learner assessment.
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Learn about the functions and features of the skin, and the commonly seen skin conditions you may be asked to treat.
You will discover more about the use of technologies you have learnt about in the previous weeks and now be more familiar with the selection of the device based on what it targets in the skin.
You will look at how human hair grows and varies, and discover the secrets to how we can get longer lasting hair removal results for your clients, and when and why some clients will never get desired results.
You will discover the ink elimination process as it relates to laser tattoo removal treatments, and how the body processes this ink.
Includes multiple practice quizzes. Learner assessment for this module is all about the skin, its function, cells, and how pricings work as they relate to IPL and Laser treatments.
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In this module you will learn about the technologies used for Laser and IPL hair removal and how they have changed and improved dramatically over the past 10 years, you will be delving into all the underpinning theories behind how they work, differ and what effect they have on unwanted hair.
You will be learning about what happens on the skin with hair removal, what’s normal and what’s not. Master the art of safely selecting technology and settings when treating a darker skin type. You will be learning about why some hair doesn’t get successfully treated and how to tackle tricky scenarios and clients with medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. (PCOS)
You will learn about side effects - and how to identify and manage these as well as how to avoid causing them.
Check out various hair removal techniques which will prepare you for any practical training you request at a later stage.
There is extensive information within this module on topics you didn’t know you needed to know: e.g.: Age of consent, treating transgender clients, managing side effects, and knowing what’s normal and what’s not.
Includes multiple practice quizzes and learner assignment. At the end of module is an assessment which is closed book test based on some client scenarios.
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This is one of the biggest and most popular topics and treatment offerings in the industry includes up to 15 various applications and treatment options for clients to select, and for laser / IPL skin, therapists to know inside and out.
Over the next 4 weeks, you will be immersed in the theory behind skin rejuvenation technologies, you will make your way around the different device types and better understand why you may need to choose one over the other.
A successful treatment gives results and does what you want it to do, to achieve this level of mastery, you will need to know the science behind the scenes well and also how to apply this to any given situation, where that be treating melasma, scarring, acne, pigmentation, or vascular issues.
You will also learn more about technologies that trigger collagen renewal and why sometimes treatments don’t work as planned.
You will be diving into potential side effects, end-points and managing expectations.
You will complete an open book active learning session at the end of the module by watching video tasks based on commonly requested treatment scenarios and then completing a multiple choice testing quiz to hone your new knowledge.
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Gain the underpinning knowledge required to operate specific types of lasers of laser tattoo removal, you will have already covered some of this in the earlier modules, so you will now focus on how to get results specific to ink colours and certain example scenarios.
The reason most tattoo removal goes wrong is that people don’t know the science behind the treatments well enough, also because poor technique and poor client care are carried out, this learning will set you up to then get the practical training required.
The skills and knowledge you learn will set you up for success as a professional laser tattoo removalist.
You will master the identifying and management of side effects associated with tattoo removal. You will then be able to use your new skills in client care and specific tattoo removal post-care management to create your treatment plan for a real world client.
Master the art of ink removal professionally and to industry best practice standards, stand out from the crowd of poorly trained and unprofessional operators with your newfound skills and confidence.
Learner assessment for this final module is a closed book test (multiple choice) after watching video tasks which prepare you for success.
Got questions before you get started?
Email us to ask any questions — We’ll help you map out your path to becoming a Laser & IPL Technician, including connecting you to a supplier to invest in technology for the practical training you’ll need.
Your Diploma Pathway Questions Answered
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A ‘‘course is a single learning module (theory or practical) focused on a specific skill or topic. A Diploma is a structured collection of ‘courses’ that, once all completed, results in a formally industry recognised Diploma that shows a broader level of knowledge and skill.
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Yes, for this theory Diploma you need to enrol and pay prior to commencement.
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Yes — this is a 100% online theory programme and is delivered online meaning it can be accessed 24/7 from anywhere in the world.
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No deadlines, you can enrol and start at anytime 24/7 via self sign up, however once started, you need to complete the studies within the allocated access time of 26 weeks.
You must also stay on track to complete the individual modules within the learning pathway within the advised time permitted ie. 4 weeks for each hair removal, skin rejuve and laser tattoo removal, before you can move to the next module. The Diploma is a maximum of 26 weeks. (6 months)
EXTENSIONS in emergency situations will be considered. eg: with a medical certificate.
NZLT Institute reserves the right to alter the access timeframe or refuse learner extensions as they see fit, however works within the Fair Trading Act responsibilities.
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Absolutely. The Diploma pathway is perfect for both beginners and current beauty or dermal professionals looking to upskill in laser and IPL treatments. This learning sets you up to either buy a laser or IPL device and gain your practical training via those suppliers, or have an expert teach you on your existing device (where and when available)
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Study method: Self-directed online studies to fit around your lifestyle and work at approx. 5- 10 hours per week.
Self - guided online videos, animations, practice quizzes, downloads, research and selected learning assignments and assessments.
A final assessment may apply at the end of each module.
You will be issued with a downloaded workbook to write your own notes in, this can be referred back to at a later stage. This workbook will only make sense to people who are enrolled in, and have access to the Diploma programme.
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A comprehensive workbook
24 / 7 access to our online E-Learning Portal
Access a tutor during business hours for ongoing advice via email, or a phonecall on request
We can assist you with recommending the right device for you to purchase
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Yes absolutely.
This learning programme is perfect if you are intending on immigrating to New Zealand and hope to seek employment in the beauty or Apperance medicine industry here.
Sorry, No work placement is available. We wish you luck with applying for roles, you can be assured majority of employing clinics know of our training and see it as highly regarded.
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Please note that the contents in this IPL and Laser Technician Theory Diploma will be duplicated into other sections of other NZLT Diplomas, we see no real advantage in undertaking additional Diplomas we offer as this one is full and complete with the exception of practical elements.
If however, you wish to have more than one NZLT Diploma, Yes. Learners wishing to complete two or more Diplomas must complete any additional Diplomas within two years of starting the first course of their initial Diploma.
Please note: individual course certificates and re-certification will not carry over — these courses must be completed again for any additional Diplomas.
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Yes, we offer limited availability - On completion of this theory Diploma you have the option of booking our Senior Tutor to come to your Clinic to train on your device/s, OR you can purchase a IPL or Laser device through our preferred supplier and received selected training for FREE.
Self funding your practical costs $1300 + GST per day (+ any travel costs)
or - buy a device and get 1-2 days free practical included.
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Yes — our experienced tutors are available via email or phone to support you throughout your Diploma journey.
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All Learners must have access to the internet via a device such as a mobile tablet or computer to access online learning materials
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If you have Q Card or would like to apply for Q Card Finance for this programme, please select this option when enrolling. Please note that you will need to pay for the surcharge for this finance option.
NO, we cannot assist with WINZ (work and income funding ), it can be applied for by yourself, but they either do not cover all of it or have been known to decline it.
NO, Studylink (student loan) - is not available
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As per our terms and conditions.
Once alearner has accessed the online content - no refunds are permitted.
Learners may however be able to withdraw for medical reasons if required, and will be asked to submit a valid medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner stating, in his or her opinion, you are no longer medically able to complete the course.
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All learners are asked to sign a IP Agreement for any of our courses.
It states learners will not copy, use, replicate or disseminate any of NZ Laser Training Limited’s Intellectual Property. Signing this Agreement acknowledges that failure to abide by the terms and provisions of this Agreement may result in legal prosecution and immediate removal from the educational programme, and that this will affect the Learner’s ability to access, be certified in, register for or hear about industry events in the future.
If you are a training provider and wish to access our modules - please contact us for licensing access.
Enrol Today
Pay Now & Self-Enrol Immediately
Enrol instantly and start your course today.
(Please note: no Q Card financing available via self-enrolment.)
Manual Enrolment
If you’re not in a hurry or enrolling more than 2 trainees please select this option. Fee is per trainee.
(Manual enrolments may take up to 2 working days to process.)
Want to Finance Your Programme?
We offer flexible finance via Q Card Finance.
IPL & LASER TECHNICIAN THEORY DIPLOMA CONDITIONS
Access to the online content is only issued after receipt of full payment.
On completion of all required modules in the Diploma pathway, the learner will be awarded the relevant diploma (a digital Certificate) - Learners must complete all the required modules to verify they possess the necessary skills and knowledge, gathering NZLT continuing professional development points (Known as ‘CPD’ points) along the way - gathering these also reflects how many hours you have completed.
Diplomas are exclusively promoted to Learners who have enrolled with NZ Laser Training Institute - courses completed at other training facilities are not eligible for cross credits or recognition of prior learning on the NZLT Institute Diploma pathways.
This IPL & Laser Technician theory Diploma must be completed within the stated 26 weeks from the access date.
Due to fluctuations in overheads, NZ Laser Training Institute reserves the right to alter Diploma offerings, pathways & pricing as we see fit, regardless of whether you have commenced your study - notice will be provided if this affects your enrolment.
PRACTICAL TRAINING IS NOT INCLUDED in this Diploma. Training in hands-on practical instruction is at an additional cost. If requested, practical, hands-on instruction will take place at your Clinic on your own device. Should you not be ready to purchase your own technology, which can cost between $25,000 $50,000 + GST for each device required, you may be invited to attend a supplier demonstration in Auckland or Christchurch; this is not considered training.
Should you request on-site practical training - Further conditions may apply and you will be advised accordingly by NZLT.
Get in Touch
Have a question or need expert support?
Contact us for expert guidance, or explore our info-packed contact page for answers to common queries about training, certifications, and laser technology. Get the help you need today!