More than skin deep at VU

I chose VU because it’s one of the only universities in the world with a dermal degree, and a clear pathway to it.

Levina Wirawan
Diploma of Beauty Therapy SHB50115, Bachelor of Dermal Sciences

Improving the health of the human body’s largest organ – the skin – is the driving force behind Levina Wirawan’s study and career success.

The Indonesian student came to Melbourne to study the Diploma of Beauty Therapy (SHB50115) at Victoria Polytechnic, the TAFE division of VU. After completing the one-year course, she entered the second year of the Bachelor of Dermal Sciences at VU – the only dermal degree taught by an English-speaking university in the world.

"I really like to take care of people’s skin," Levina, from Bandung in West Java, says. "It’s really satisfying to see the improvement in their skin, and know that you’ve contributed to that success. My ultimate goal is to open a clinic of my own, so that’s why I chose VU – because it’s one of the only universities in the world with a dermal degree, and a clear pathway to it."

She says her favourite part of the diploma was providing facial treatments, which is a core unit.

"The subjects are all really interesting and Victoria Polytechnic delivers them very clearly. This is especially important to me, being an international student."

Living in Melbourne’s CBD, just minutes away from where her courses are delivered, at VU’s City Campus, Levina says she enjoys the city’s cosmopolitan, friendly lifestyle.

"Melbourne is a multicultural city and it’s the world’s most liveable city – it’s easy to enjoy living here."

Soon after completing her degree, Levina began working full time as a dermal clinician for Atone Skin Clinic.

Levina studied