Online Esthetician Certification Programs

<h3 id="section---AreThereAnyEstheticianCertificatePrograms">Are There Any <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Esthetician_Career_Summary_Occupational_Outlook_and_Educational_Requirements.html">Esthetician</a> Certificate Programs?</h3> <p>You'll find a handful of schools that offer esthetician certificate programs. These programs will train you to work in a salon and will also prepare you to take your state's esthetician licensing exam. These programs cover most aspects of an esthetician's professional duties, including skin care, facials, hair removal, makeup and color theory. Most programs are designed for students without prior professional experience, and you'll only need a high school diploma or GED to get started. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Admission Requirements</b></td><td>High school diploma or GED; prior experience not required</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>It maybe possible to complete some prerequisite courses online, though the esthetician specific courses take place in-person</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Course Topics</b></td><td>Skin care, exfoliation, color theory, facial treatments, body treatments</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Licensure</b></td><td>Requirements depend by state; usually you must complete a number of clinical hours and pass a licensing exam; could also seek membership with a professional organization</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Salary</b></td><td>$36,510 (median salary for skincare specialists in 2020)</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook</b></td><td>17% growth (for skincare specialists between 2019-2029)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---AreTheseProgramsOfferedOnline">Are These Programs Offered Online?</h3> <p>Very few esthetician programs can be completed over the Internet, since many of the courses teach you the actual processes and techniques you'll need in a professional environment. However, many programs have academic prerequisites, some of which may be offered online. If you have the option of completing some of your courses online, you'll need a broadband Internet connection and a browser like Firefox. You may also need additional software like Adobe Acrobat or Windows Media Player. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsTheCurriculumLike">What Is The Curriculum Like?</h3> <p>A certificate program designed for aspiring estheticians will offer a foundational background in the various practices and skills you'll need in a salon. For example, most programs will include classes in skin care, temporary hair removal, body treatments, exfoliation, color theory and makeup, electricity and facial treatments and eyebrow arching. Additionally, some programs may also require you to complete a practicum or internship as part of your coursework. </p> <h3 id="section---HowCanIBecomeALicensedEsthetician">How Can I Become A Licensed Esthetician?</h3> <p>Most states require estheticians to hold a valid license. In order to obtain your license, you'll need to complete a specific amount of clinical hours in addition to your academic certificate. Most states will also require you to pass a licensing exam. Some states also offer master-level licenses for students who've completed a minimum of 1200 clinical hours. </p> <p>You may wish to seek membership in a professional organization, like the Professional Beauty Association (PBA). Membership in the PBA can provide estheticians with discounts on continuing education, opportunities for scholarships and access to industry events. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCanThisCertificateDoForMyCareer">What Can This Certificate Do For My Career?</h3> <p>An esthetician certificate program can help qualify you for work as a cosmetologist or skin care specialist. According to a 2020 study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), skin care specialist earned a median annual salary of $36,510 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>).</p>