The Best Esthetician Schools of 2025

7.1% August 2025
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Estheticians help their clients achieve smooth, radiant skin. At the same time, they can help improve their confidence, acting as a sounding board and cheerleader while providing expert care services. It’s a fulfilling career for those who want to help others look and feel their best – inside and out.

The job outlook for esthetician graduates is strong, as an aging population, shifting beauty standards, and technological advancements drive increasing demand. In Canada, new job openings for estheticians and related occupations are expected to total 21,200 from 2022 to 2031, according to Canada’s Job Bank. Glassdoor reports that the average estimated total pay for an esthetician is just over $63,000. That includes an average salary around $32,000 and additional pay in the form of cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.

In Canada, beauty and cosmetology schools including public colleges and private institutions offer a variety of esthetics programs, training students in essential services such as skincare analysis, facial treatments, body treatments, makeup techniques, hair removal, and more. In addition to hands-on classroom experience and lab work, many esthetician schools offer students opportunities to practice their skills on real clients at campus spas and field placements in the community.

Students with an aptitude for science and technical services can specialize in medical esthetics – a niche that bridges beauty treatments with out-patient plastic surgery. According to the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, aesthetic medicine is based on the use of minimally invasive cosmetic treatments to enhance patient satisfaction with their physical appearance – a sub-specialty that’s no longer limited to the fields of plastic surgery and dermatology. Medical esthetics programs offer additional training in more advanced skincare and cosmetic treatments, such as microdermabrasion, laser therapy, chemical peels, and cosmetic injectables.

For estheticians, licensing requirements vary by province. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan require estheticians to pass a licensing exam. In B.C. and Ontario, certification is not mandatory. Medical estheticians, however, are required to be licensed or certified by a recognized professional organization. This varies by province, but typically involves completing an educational program, accumulating training hours, and passing a licensing or certification exam.

Based on job placement and graduation data, student reputation and reviews, and analysis of practical training including co-op and placement opportunities, here is our ranking of the best esthetician schools in Canada of 2025.

CourseCompare’s annual school rankings are determined using a process that considers several core metrics and principles. Read more about our methodology here.

1.

Seneca Polytechnic

4.5
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2.

Georgian College

5
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3.

Durham College

4.75
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4.

Centennial College

4.55
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5.

Longo Faculty of Business, Humber Polytechnic

5
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6.

HDC (Hair Design Centre)

5
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7.

GLOW College

5
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8.

JCI Institute

4.2
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9.

Blanche MacDonald Centre

5
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10.

International Beauty Institute

5
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11.

MC College

5
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12.

Academy of Cosmetology

5
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13.

Nova Scotia Community College

5
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14.

Vancouver Community College

3.75
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15.

The Canadian Beauty Academy

5
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1

Seneca Polytechnic

best esthetician school
$ $ $ $

With multiple campuses across the Greater Toronto Area, Seneca Polytechnic offers degrees, diplomas, and certificates across a variety of disciplines. Combining rigorous academic standards with practical, hands-on learning, expert teaching faculty, and cutting-edge technology, Seneca ensures its graduates are fully prepared for their careers. Recently recognized as a Greater Toronto Top Employer for the 15th time, Seneca Polytechnic has a school-wide job placement rate of 79.1 percent.

What Sets Seneca Polytechnic Apart

Seneca Polytechnic offers two-year and three-year Esthetics diploma programs, with the three-year option featuring advanced training in medical esthetic treatments and holistic therapies. Students benefit from state-of-the-art labs and gain valuable industry experience through field placements and competitive events that enhance their professional networks.

The Esthetics programs at Seneca are accredited by CIDESCO, the world standard for beauty and spa therapy. This accreditation allows graduates to pursue the CIDESCO Diplomat Examination, and those who succeed earn the prestigious international designation of “CIDESCO Diplomat.”

Additionally, Seneca’s programs are affiliated with Leading Spas of Canada, iSPA International Spa Association, International Pedicure Association (IPA), and Cosmetics Alliance Canada. The programs are delivered through a hybrid format, combining online and in-person coursework to offer flexibility and a comprehensive learning experience.

What Students Are Saying

Alumni of this school went here from 2014 to 2018, its a big beautiful school with lots of people and by far Newnham is the best campus Seneca has to offer. The professors care about you and you will meet people of all walks of life in your classroom. The school may feel big but is very communal with lots things to do and people to meet, education wise Seneca is up there with this other big schools, but really school is the same everywhere it is what you make it and how you use it after.

S A,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: In the three-year Esthetics & Medical Spa Therapies program, you will develop a range of skills, including manicures, pedicures, waxing and tinting, facials, body treatments, skincare analysis, spa business operations, medical esthetic treatments, and holistic therapies. You’ll also learn and practice advanced esthetic treatments, including microdermabrasion, light therapies, and various anti-aging treatments.

In addition to basic skills, you’ll study advanced theory and practical training to confidently perform treatments in the field of medical esthetics. You’ll get real client experience at the on-campus Evolutions Spa. Hands-on sessions reinforce lessons, ensuring you’ll be ready to start your career upon graduation.

Locations

Toronto, Ontario

2

Georgian College

best esthetician school - georgian college
$ $ $ $

With its main campus in Barrie and six additional campuses across central Ontario, Georgian has a school-wide job placement rate of 90.3 percent. It is the first and only Canadian college to be recognized as a changemaker college by Ashoka U, reflecting its leadership in social innovation and changemaking in higher education. The Barrie campus offers a two-year Esthetician – Spa Management program.

What Sets Georgian College Apart

Georgian College’s Esthetician – Spa Management program is distinguished by its accreditation from CIDESCO, the world standard for beauty and spa therapy. This accreditation allows graduates to apply for the CIDESCO Diplomat Examination, and successful candidates earn the international designation of “CIDESCO Diplomat.”.

In addition to its esthetician program, Georgian College offers a one-year, post-graduate Medical Skin Care Therapies certificate. This advanced program delves into the theory and practice of medical esthetics, equipping students with specialized skills for careers in dermatology clinics, medical spas, laser care facilities, wellness centers, plastic surgeons’ offices, dental spas, and more.

What Students Are Saying

I love Georgian College. Having attended university previous to this I can say that the small classroom size has allowed me to have an amazing relationship with my teachers, more opportunity to ask questions, and much more hands on experience. It is very organized, not only the staff but also the students are so friendly and welcoming every day. The school is all connected and easy to navigate. Nothing but great things to say! As for the costs of going to college/university, you're going to have to pay basically the same (college/university respectively), and Georgian gives you the best quality available for what it costs. The gym is also nice with lots of equipment. :)

Brooke Savich,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: The Esthetician – Spa Management program offers an internationally-recognized, holistic curriculum that includes courses in skin, body and hand/foot treatments, cosmetic applications and product knowledge, nutrition for skin and body health, as well as marketing and social media. With more than 240 hours of hands-on experience across three placements under experienced professionals in Georgian College’s state-of-the-art Spa and Esthetics Clinic, you’ll hone your practice and develop the professional ethics and skills needed for a successful career in the industry. Student beauty kits are not included in tuition.

Locations

Barrie, Ontario

3

Durham College

best esthetician school - durham college
4.75/5
$ $ $ $

Offering over 145 full-time post-secondary programs, Durham College is consistently recognized as a Greater Toronto Top Employer. It has a school-wide job placement rate of 88.6 percent. Its two year Esthetician – Spa Management program is offered by the Faculty of Business at the Oshawa campus.

What Sets Durham College Apart

Durham College distinguishes itself through its strong industry connections and practical, career-focused education. As a member of Cosmetics Alliance Canada, the leading trade association in the industry, the college’s Esthetician – Spa Management program delivers a curriculum that combines foundational theory with extensive hands-on training. Students gain practical skills through lab work and placements, alongside essential business management training, preparing them for thriving careers in the beauty industry. The program also emphasizes adherence to industry professional standards, including rigorous training in best practices and protocols for infection control.

First-year students in the Faculty of Business benefit from a membership to all eight of Durham Region’s Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, which extends throughout their studies and for an additional year post-graduation. This membership provides invaluable networking opportunities with over 2,500 local businesses, helping students forge connections and explore potential career opportunities.

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: Applied hands-on learning is at the heart of the Esthetician – Spa Management program, where you’ll develop practical skills in areas such as manicure and pedicure techniques, skincare analysis, facial treatments, grooming and hair removal, body treatments, and medical esthetics. You’ll hone your skills further with real-life work experience at Durham College Spa, which provides services to the public. The program also teaches valuable customer service, communication, interpersonal, and business skills that allow you to develop as an esthetician and prepare you for entrepreneurial ventures.

Locations

Toronto, Ontario

4

Centennial College

best esthetician school - centennial college
4.55/5
$ $ $ $

Established as Toronto’s first public college in 1966, Centennial College has five Toronto campuses and is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse post-secondary institutions in Canada. It has a school-wide job placement rate of 74.9 percent. Its two-year Esthetician program is part of the School of Community and Health Studies program.

What Sets Centennial College Apart

Centennial College is a member of Cosmetics Alliance Canada, the industry’s leading trade association. The Esthetician program offers both clinic and placement components, which means students gain hands-on experience at the school’s on-campus, faculty-supervised Censation Esthetics Student Clinic and through placements at established businesses. The program is accredited by the Canadian Nurses Association, and offers students a scientific basis in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and more, alongside technical training in product knowledge and practical applications.

What Students Are Saying

Best college experience one could ask for. Terrific faculty and selection of programs for individuals looking to reach their highest potential and develop /sharpen very practical skills, all in the heart of Scarborough. Priceless.

Mélissa Lee,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: In addition to gaining hands-on experience at the student-run clinic, in this two-year Esthetician program, you’ll hone your skills in lab facilities that use cutting-edge equipment common in today’s wellness and medical spas. You’ll then apply the skills you learn in field placements at industry clinics and established businesses, garnering real work experience. After graduating, you’ll be able to provide the full range of professional services offered in today’s spas, medi-spas, and doctor’s offices, including microdermabrasion, body contouring, laser, and chemical peels, among others, and have the skills to successfully operate a private business.

Locations

Toronto, Ontario

5

Longo Faculty of Business, Humber Polytechnic

best esthetician school - humber polytechnic
$ $ $ $

Humber Polytechnic (formerly Humber College) is a public College of Applied Arts and Technology with three campuses across Toronto. With a school-wide job placement rate of 83.6 percent, Humber is committed to providing students with practical and career-focused education. The college’s Health Sciences & Wellness faculty offers a comprehensive two-year Esthetician/Spa Management program, which is recognized as an approved beauty education institute by the Ontario Beauty Council.

What Sets Humber College Apart

Humber College’s Esthetician/Spa Management program stands out for its strong emphasis on business management skills, hands-on courses, and real-world training. Central to this program is The Humber Spa, a fully operational classroom and retail boutique that serves the public. Students gain invaluable experience managing the administrative functions of the spa while providing services such as facials, hand and foot care, and body treatments to clients, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

The program also offers students unique global opportunities for study and work experiences. Through the Summer Abroad initiative, students may be eligible to earn credits while studying in Croatia, Denmark, Finland, India, Japan, New Zealand, Peru, or Vietnam. Additionally, the program includes options for completing work placements both in Canada and abroad.

What Students Are Saying

Amazing professors and an amazing atmosphere. Plus the best outdoor space!

Kate Borg-Lacey,

Top Program Highlights 

Esthetician: The Esthetician/Spa Management program incorporates both theory and practical training, providing you with foundational knowledge and fundamental esthetic skills. You’ll learn the fundamentals of business administration, including business writing, marketing and social media, new business development, human resource management, spa operations, and essential business software applications. Hands-on courses focus on foundational practical skills such as hand and foot care, facial techniques, waxing, body treatments, and makeup applications. You’ll also learn advanced therapies and practical skills of medical esthetics, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion. In the Humber Spa, you’ll manage daily operations, including spa reservations and customer service, retail management and sales and marketing, as well as provide spa treatments and services to clients.

Locations

Toronto, Ontario

6

HDC (Hair Design Centre)

$ $ $ $

Located in Halifax, HDC (Hair Design Centre) has more than 40 years of experience in beauty education. With large facilities that include training areas, a dedicated classroom, clinic stations, and a spa zone, HDC provides a comprehensive learning environment. The school prides itself on an impressive job placement rate, with 95 percent of graduates securing employment within 30 days of completing their programs.

What Sets HDC Apart

HDC stands out for its innovative and high-energy training environment, where students are encouraged to cultivate their passion for beauty in a supportive setting. The Esthetics program at HDC offers a blend of traditional classroom learning and hands-on experience in the school’s fully functional on-site spa, allowing students to hone their skills in a real-world setting.

In addition to its strong educational foundation, HDC is committed to inclusivity and social responsibility. The school is part of Strands for Trans, a global network within the hair, beauty, and wellness industries that aims to create safe and positive experiences for all guests, with a special focus on supporting the trans community.

What Students Are Saying

I had a really great experience and met a lot of really good friends while there! The teachers were honestly all great, and the clientele was mostly as well.

Azhula,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: In HDC’s comprehensive Esthetics program, you’ll develop a fundamental understanding of esthetic services such as facial services, laser hair removal, makeup techniques, nail services and enhancements. You’ll learn the skills required to give your clients high-quality treatments, including general sciences such as infection control, anatomy, chemistry, and skin sciences. Finally, to help you build and manage a successful career in the industry, you’ll get training in business-building skills.

Locations

Halifax, Nova Scotia

7

GLOW College

best esthetician school - glow college
$ $ $ $

Founded in 2008, GLOW College of Artistic Design (formerly known as Glow Academy) offers diploma and certificate programs at its four campuses in Ontario – Toronto, Brampton, Waterloo, and Ottawa – as well as online. The school is a registered private career college with the Ontario Ministry of Training and Colleges, and is a member of Career Colleges Ontario and the National Association of Career Colleges. GLOW College is approved by the Ontario Beauty Council.

What Sets GLOW College Apart

GLOW College has a strong focus on job and business readiness, with programs designed and reviewed by industry professionals and subject matter experts before receiving approval from the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. This ensures that students receive an education closely aligned with industry demands.

The college’s curriculum combines theoretical learning with in-class practical training and real-world industry experiences. GLOW College offers a one-year diploma program in Advanced Esthetics, alongside a range of certificate programs, such as skincare and facial treatments and holistic body treatments. Many of these programs are hybrid learning experiences that blend self-paced online theory lessons with effective on-campus hands-on training led by qualified instructors, providing students with the flexibility to learn in a way that suits their needs while gaining essential practical skills.

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: With an emphasis on job-readiness, the Advanced Esthetics Diploma program has been developed by industry professionals and is approved as a vocational program. The eight-month program is available in a hybrid method and has nine modules with multiple entry points. Each module contains online theories, quizzes and assignments, along with in-class practical and clinic hours for skill-building modules. You’ll learn about topics such as make-up artistry, the science of skin, skin and face services, nail services, and more. The program can be combined with the Advanced Nail Technology program for a double diploma.

Locations

Kitchener-Waterloo, Ottawa, and Toronto, Ontario

8

JCI Institute

best esthetician school - jci institute
$ $ $ $

Established in 1978, JCI Institute is a leading training school in the fields of fashion, makeup, hairdressing, and esthetics. The Institute is dedicated to offering quality education within a professional and realistic environment, preparing students for successful careers in the beauty industry. Among its diverse programs, JCI offers a Body Spa + Medi Esthetics program, which has been approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training in British Columbia. On its website, The Institute states that its job placement rate is over 90 percent.

What Sets JCI Institute Apart

JCI Institute stands out for its personalized approach to education, which has earned it an internationally renowned reputation. With small class sizes that encourage individual growth, JCI ensures that students receive cutting-edge training from top professionals in the industry. The Institute’s strong network of local and international connections enables program directors and industry liaisons to assist students in securing their dream jobs.

What Students Are Saying

My overall experience at JCI was very exciting. The program was very condensed, so many classes had to be completed in a short space of time. However, the instructors made it possible to get all the work done because of their willingness to assist in every way possible. The program was very valuable and I gained a wealth of knowledge which I will definitely use in the future.

Ashley Chitapi,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: The Body Spa + Medi Esthetics program offers an advanced spa and esthetics curriculum, developed with some of the industry’s top medical estheticians, aromatherapists, nail technicians, and holistic massage practitioners. The program combines basic and advanced spa services and in-depth theory and practical training. You’ll have ongoing opportunities to practice and hone your skills – on friends and family members to start, then eventually on real clients. You’ll also take weekly tests, work on creative projects and master spa floor services. JCI Institutes touts its beautiful, modern facilities that ensure training takes place in a realistic spa setting. Student beauty kits are not included in tuition.

Locations

Vancouver, British Columbia

9

Blanche MacDonald Centre

best esthetician school - blanche macdonald centre
$ $ $ $

Founded in 1960, the Blanche Macdonald Centre in Vancouver has established itself as a leader in fashion and beauty education. Fully accredited and internationally recognized, it holds a designation certificate with the Private Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education & Future Skills and is an Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designated institution. Renowned for its dynamic curriculum that aligns with the evolving demands of the global fashion and beauty industry, Blanche Macdonald Centre graduates over 1,000 students annually from its programs in makeup, fashion, hairstyling, esthetics, and nails, across three vibrant campuses in Vancouver.

What Sets Blanche Macdonald Centre Apart

Blanche Macdonald Centre delivers a progressive, industry-aligned curriculum that equips students with the skills needed to transition seamlessly from classroom to career. The courses are led by award-winning educators and industry professionals, who bring a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom, ensuring that students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical insights.

The Centre’s commitment to student success extends beyond the classroom, with a robust focus on career readiness. Its diploma programs feature comprehensive business coaching, professional skills development, resumé preparation, and career search strategies, empowering students to effectively market themselves in their chosen fields. Each department boasts a dedicated career services team or director who provides personalized support throughout the program, helping students navigate their career paths and achieve their professional goals.

What Students Are Saying

A proud Blanche graduate here , and currently taking another course Global/ Medical Aesthetics. Blanche offers variety of programs such as makeup artistry, esthetics, fashion, and hair styling. The school is known for its industry-focused curriculum and has a reputation for producing talented professionals in the beauty and fashion industry.

Asma Imran,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: Available full- and part-time, the Global Esthetics/Medical Esthetics program teaches you how to provide a “total experience” that leaves clients feeling pampered, healthy, glowing, relaxed, and renewed. Instructors are award-winning industry experts who know how to create healthy, safe, and respectful boundaries in this hands-on, up-close-and-personal profession.

In spa-like learning labs, you’ll gain a thorough knowledge of current spa therapist techniques, holistic and medi-spa treatments, products, and equipment, supported by an understanding of basic anatomy, chemistry, and physiology. You’ll also be taught to uphold the highest standards of professional esthetician presentation, conduct, and hygiene. You’ll practice your skills on real clients during regular Client and Friends and Family Days.

Locations

Vancouver, British Columbia

10

International Beauty Institute

best esthetician school - international beauty institute
$ $ $ $

International Beauty Institute (IBI) is registered as a private career college under the Private Career Colleges Act and approved by the Ontario Beauty Council. With campuses in Mississauga, Toronto, and Hamilton, Ont., as well as online course offerings, IBI provides accessible education tailored to the needs of aspiring beauty professionals. The institute has a job placement rate of 80.6 percent.

What Sets International Beauty Institute Apart

International Beauty Institute offers a comprehensive and modern learning experience across its campuses. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and premium skincare and makeup products from top brands, IBI ensures students receive cutting-edge training. The institute offers a range of diploma and certificate programs, combining in-depth curriculums with hands-on training in a spa-like classroom setting, alongside online certifications for added flexibility.

At IBI, students gain a deep understanding of their craft and the broader beauty industry. They have the opportunity to develop and refine their techniques, utilizing advanced cosmetic tools, lasers, and aesthetic equipment. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of client safety and customer service excellence, preparing graduates to excel in their careers and meet the highest industry standards.

Top Program Highlights 

Esthetician: The Medical Aesthetics diploma program provides you with knowledge of both traditional and advanced aesthetic treatments. You’ll develop knowledge for providing traditional aesthetic services such as facials, body treatments, make-up applications, nail treatments, and waxing. You’ll also learn advanced therapies used in medical spas, such as chemical peels, laser hair removal, acne treatments, skin tightening, and more. In-depth practical applications including client consultations, sanitization and sterilization practice, and professionalism in the workplace are emphasized throughout the program.

Locations

Toronto, Ontario

11

MC College

best esthetician school - mc college
$ $ $ $

MC College, a private career college with campuses in Edmonton, Red Deer, Calgary, Kelowna, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg, is a leading institution for aspiring beauty professionals. Offering a diploma in Esthetics as well as a variety of certificate programs, MC College ensures its programs are licensed, registered, and approved by all relevant provincial regulatory bodies.

What Sets MC College Apart

MC College is dedicated to empowering future beauty industry professionals with the skills and confidence needed to build rewarding careers. The Esthetics program provides a comprehensive learning experience, combining classroom instruction with practical training in the on-campus Salon & Spa, where students perform services on real clients, gaining hands-on experience in a professional setting.

At the core of MC College’s philosophy is the MC 360 commitment – a holistic approach to student success. This includes personalized guidance with applications, access to scholarships and financial aid, continuous student support, and career counselling. The college also offers alumni benefits, ongoing career assistance, and valuable network connections, ensuring that students and graduates have the resources they need for long-term success in the beauty industry.

What Students Are Saying

Amazing college! As an esthetician student, I consider the program allow me to learn and practice on the subjects I have passion for. The instructors are passionate about their work that it makes all the difference. Everyone shows you the support you need to meet your own personal expectations!

Lauren Rosado, Esthetics

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: The Esthetics program’s comprehensive curriculum covers a range of topics including dermal and body therapy, medi-spa, makeup artistry, hair removal, the business of beauty, and more. In the classroom, you’ll use Pivot Point’s digital learning platform, “Learn About Beauty,” which includes learning materials such as videos, practice exams, interactive activities, and communication with other students. You’ll also gain hands-on experience at campus spas and through work experience placements.

Locations

Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Winnipeg

12

Academy of Cosmetology

best esthetician school - academy of cosmetology
$ $ $ $

The Academy of Cosmetology is a beauty school located in Dartmouth, N.S. It is recognized by the Department of Education, The Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia, The Private Career Colleges of Nova Scotia, and the Better Business Bureau.

What Sets Academy of Cosmetology Apart

The Academy of Cosmetology trains students for careers that can support them, focusing on maximizing their individual potential by fostering personal growth. Instructors deliver quality education featuring the most up-to-date theoretical and practical training, as well as career guidance. The curriculum for their programs reflects the latest trends and techniques used in the industry.

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: In the Esthetics program, you’ll learn theory and practical skills, as well as advanced techniques, including those used in the anti-aging field. You’ll learn how to recognize and analyze skin types and perform treatments and services such as skin resurfacing, facial masks, body wraps, massage, manicures, and more. To round out your education, you’ll study the theory of salon management, entrepreneurial practices, and retail sales. When you successfully complete the program, you’ll receive a diploma in Esthetics, which will qualify you to write the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia provincial exam. In addition to your diploma, you may also receive certifications (like Dermalogica Product Knowledge and Training, and Laser Hair Removal), depending on which courses you take. Tuition includes a professional esthetics kit that’s yours to keep.

Locations

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

13

Nova Scotia Community College

best beauty and cosmetology schools - nova scotia community college
$ $ $ $

Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) offers more than 130 programs at 14 campuses across Nova Scotia. According to the latest graduate survey, 92 percent of NSCC graduates are employed, with 93 percent of those employed staying and working within Nova Scotia. NSCC offers a two-year Esthetics and Spa Therapies program, which is recognized by the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia.

What Sets Nova Scotia Community College Apart

NSCC’s Esthetics and Spa Therapies program features mandatory clinical placements that immerse students in real-world environments, allowing them to tackle the everyday challenges of the beauty industry while integrating their theoretical and practical studies. Field experience is mandatory, providing students with opportunities to apply their skills beyond the classroom. The college’s esthetics lab is designed to simulate a real esthetics spa, offering students a hands-on learning environment that mirrors professional settings.

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: As an Esthetics and Spa Therapies student, you’ll gain an understanding of all aspects of the esthetics profession in a practical and therapeutic environment, using the latest ingredients, equipment, and technologies. Areas covered include aromatherapy, body care and treatments, diabetic and advanced foot care, makeup artistry, nail and skin care, and more. Courses may also include communications, salon accounts management, professional development, bacteriology/infection control, natural sciences and nutrition, and license preparation. Graduates are eligible to complete the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia’s Cosmetologist (Esthetics) licensing exam.

Locations

Halifax, Nova Scotia

14

Vancouver Community College

best esthetician school - vancouver community college
3.75/5
$ $ $ $

Vancouver Community College (VCC) offers academic, cultural, and social environments that support practical, real-world training. The college’s on-campus facilities – including gourmet restaurants, an auto shop, and salon and spa – provide students with opportunities to develop their skills while delivering high-quality, cost-effective services to the downtown and East Vancouver communities. VCC’s Hairstyling and Esthetics programs have an 80 percent job placement rate.

What Sets Vancouver Community College Apart 

Students in VCC’s Esthetics programs serve real clients at the state-of-the-art VCC Salon & Spa. Esthetics students work in the spa section of the facility, which is equipped with the latest technology and features private treatment rooms. The 10-month Esthetics and Spa Therapy program combines classroom learning with practical training. The curriculum encompasses the science of anatomy and physiology, the art of aesthetic design and color theory, and the business aspects of running a spa. Students benefit from lectures and demonstrations led by industry professionals, guest speakers, and enriching field trips, including trade shows and skills competitions.

What Students Are Saying

VCC sets up students for success. The few instructors whose classes I taken have been genuine educators looking to support students achieve their goals.

Simi M,

Top Program Highlights 

Esthetician: In the Esthetics and Spa Therapy program, you’ll get expert training in facial treatments, manicure, pedicure gel application, hair removal, makeup, and body massage. You’ll learn how to perform spa treatments based on client consultation, skin analysis, and nutritional needs. You’ll apply the principles of colour and design to lash, brow and specialized makeup techniques. Retail business administration practices and marketing techniques for operating a spa are also taught.

Esthetics students complete work practicums, gaining industry work experience where they can apply their knowledge in practice while also making connections for post-grad employment.

Locations

Vancouver, British Columbia

15

The Canadian Beauty Academy

best esthetician school - the canadian beauty academy
$ $ $ $

Previously known as The Salon Professional Academy, The Canadian Beauty Academy (TCBA) in Winnipeg offers a range of diploma and certificate programs for careers in the beauty field.

What Sets The Canadian Beauty Academy Apart

TCBA’s Esthetics program combines theory, technical skills, and hands-on training, offering students real-world experience and the chance to learn from industry experts. The program is designed to foster creativity and support students in a small, nurturing learning environment. Students gain practical experience by performing services on real clients at TCBA’s on-site Salon & Spa.

Trade certifications for professions in esthetics are compulsory in Manitoba, which means that a person must be a registered apprentice or hold a valid Certificate of Qualification to work in the province. Estheticians must be enrolled in or have completed technical training to register as an apprentice, as well as pass a provincial certification theory exam and practical exam. TCBA’s programs are structured to prepare students thoroughly for these certification requirements.

What Students Are Saying

I had an amazing time at TCBA! The faculty and staff were incredibly supportive and provided a challenging yet nurturing learning environment that helped me grow both academically and personally.

Jagdeep Kaur,

Top Program Highlights

Esthetician: In the Esthetics program, you’ll learn a wide range of techniques, including manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, nail sculpting, makeup application, classic lash extensions, and more. The program offers specialized techniques and theoretical principles for skin analysis and conditions, customized facials to address specific skin concerns, chemical treatments, body treatments, eyebrow shaping and hair removal. You’ll also gain valuable insights on business strategies and guest services. Bonus workshops from TCBA’s salon partners include business and retail sales, product knowledge, and body mechanics.

Locations

Winnipeg, Manitoba

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