School Overviews
Training programs for estheticians typically prepare them for state license. They are commonly offered at two-year community and technical colleges. Estheticians, or skin care therapists, typically require a state license in order to perform cosmetic treatments such as waxing, cleansing, massage, exfoliation, and facials. Training required in order to obtain the license varies according to state. A specified number of education hours in a state-approved program is generally one of the requirements. Successful completion of exams may also be needed. Some states may offer various levels of licensing, such as a basic license and a master license. Some schools use an alternate spelling of 'aesthetics'.
Profiled here are four of the best schools for aspiring estheticians. Each offers a comprehensive program that covers a wide range of topics so that graduates are well prepared for licensure exams.
Johnson County Community College
At Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, KS, graduates of the esthetician certificate program are ready to take the written and practical exams administered by the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology for Estheticians. In addition to an esthetician certificate program, students with prior professional experience and a current esthetics license can participate in an advanced training program offered by Johnson County Community College. A physical examination, personal interview, and entrance exam are required for both programs. The advanced program offers a mixture of classroom lectures and hands-on work in a salon environment. Course topics include spa theory, makeup techniques, microdermabrasion, manual lymphatic drainage, and airbrushing.
Bluegrass CTC
In Lexington, KY, Bluegrass Community and Technical College's licensing preparatory program is open to new students once every three semesters. The esthetician certificate program offered by the cosmetology department at Bluegrass Community and Technical College can be completed in as few as three semesters. During each semester, students take four to five classes. Class topics include skin care history, sanitation, the physiology and histology of skin, human anatomy, professional regulations, depilation techniques, cosmetic chemistry, skin diseases, and salon management. This school is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Cape Fear Community College
Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, NC, offers both an Esthetics Technology Certificate and an Esthetics Instructor Certificate. Cape Fear Community College offers an undergraduate certificate in esthetics technology, which consists of both conceptual coursework and salon-based training. There is also a 32-week certificate program for estheticians who want to gain the pedagogical skills and expertise they need to train future professionals in the field. CFCC is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Top Esthetician Schools
Let's explore the esthetician programs offered at other schools in the country.
| School Name | Distinction | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Clover Park Technical College | Offers a four-quarter Esthetics Sciences associate's degree program that includes 1,200 hours of technical instruction | Lakewood, WA |
| McLennan Community College | Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools | Waco, TX |
| Mott Community College | The Esthetician Salon Management Certificate of Achievement provides the needed 400 hours necessary to qualify for the state board's exam | Flint, MI |
| North Central Texas College | The aesthetics program requires 22 credits and 750 contact hours | Gainesville, TX |
| North Shore Community College | An Aesthetics and Skin Care Basic Certificate fulfills the 300-hour state requirement for license eligibility | Danvers, MA |
| Red Rocks Community College | The Esthetician Certificate calls for 20 credit hours spread over nine courses | Lakewood, CO |
In order to become licensed, prospective estheticians must first complete a training program. Many formal programs can give students the classroom education and practical experience they need for eligibility and success on the state licensure exam.
