Aesthetics Degrees and Courses
Working in the field of aesthetics, you can help people look and feel their best through the science of skin care. Learn about aesthetics degree and training programs, licensure requirements and career options.
What You Need to Know
Nothing says healthy like a warm glow to the skin, and while some people have naturally beautiful skin, others need avenues to take care of theirs. After completing a professional education program and receiving the proper state-approved license, an aesthetics worker can find much satisfaction helping others with the health of their skin and giving them the confidence boost they need to meet the other challenges they'll naturally face in life.
<table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Programs</b></td><td> Certificate and diploma programs at vocational, trade and technical schools available for entry-level; associate degree programs are also offered</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Courses</b> </td><td> Makeup application, hair removal, dermatology, aromatherapy, medical terminology, facial massage, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, salon management, body systems</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Licensing</b> </td><td> Completion of your state's exam; requirements vary by state</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhichDegreesCouldIEarn">Which Degrees Could I Earn?</h3><p>You can learn about aesthetics through a vocational high school program or on-the-job training. You could also complete a certificate or diploma in aesthetics, skin care or cosmetology. If you pursue a college degree, you might earn an Associate of Occupational Studies in Esthetics, an Associate of Science in Natural Health with a concentration in skin care or an Associate of Applied Science for aestheticians.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanILearnInAestheticsCourses">What Can I Learn in Aesthetics Courses?</h3><p>Aesthetics courses teach you how to analyze and treat your clients' skin with the goal of enhancing beauty and health. If you enroll in a certificate or diploma program offered by vocational, trade and technical schools, you'll prepare for licensure and entry-level jobs. The following course topics may be included in your program:
</p><ul><li>Makeup application
</li><li>Temporary hair removal
</li><li>Skin treatment machines
</li><li>Salon management
</li><li>Cosmetic chemistry
</li><li>Body systems
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatAboutCoursesInAnAssociateSDegree">What About Courses in an Associate's Degree?</h3><p>You may want to enroll in a two-year program of study. Associate degrees offer more advanced courses in aesthetics. These courses might include:
</p><ul><li>Aromatherapy
</li><li>Camouflage makeup
</li><li>Clinical dermatology
</li><li>Ethics for body care practitioners
</li><li>Eyebrow and eyelash tinting
</li><li>Facial massage
</li><li>Medical terminology
</li><li>Microdermabrasion
</li><li>Skin peels
</li></ul><h3 id="section---DoINeedALicense">Do I Need a License?</h3><p>Programs should be approved by your state's board of cosmetology. As a practicing aesthetician, you'll be required to obtain a license by completing your state's exam. State requirements vary; however, you might be eligible for licensing without an exam if you're endorsed by employers and have been legally practicing in another state.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreMyCareerOptions">What Are My Career Options?</h3><p>There are a variety of settings in which you might work as an aesthetician. You might work in a salon, day spa, health club or cosmetics store. Because your knowledge of skin care is based on health and science courses, you'll be considered a paramedical practitioner. As such, you might work in a plastic surgeons' or dermatologists' office where you might assist people going through cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.</p>