Esthetician Program

Program Overview

Niagara College's 2-year Esthetician program equips students with hands-on experience in skin care, makeup artistry, and spa treatments. Through integrated learning and industry partnerships, graduates are prepared for careers in the growing spa and beauty industry as estheticians, spa therapists, and salon owners. The program emphasizes digital marketing, spa management, and emerging trends, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.

Program Outline

As an Esthetician, graduates will be equipped to provide a range of services including skin care, facials, manicures, pedicures, hair removal, and makeup artistry within the growing spa services industry.

Key Program Highlights:

• Hands-on Experience: Students gain practical experience in the NC Teaching Spa located on-campus, providing a wide range of esthetic services.
• Digital Marketing & Spa Management: The program incorporates training in innovative digital marketing and spa management skills.
• Location Advantage: The Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake is situated in the heart of Canada's premier hospitality and tourism industry.
• Integrated Learning: The program utilizes an integrated learning model, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on training.
• Industry Relevance: Students prepare for careers in the consistently growing and demanding spa industry, exploring emerging trends.
• Experiential Learning: Opportunities for community-based experiential learning and industry networking are provided.
• Industry-Recognized Brands: Students perform full esthetic services using award-winning and internationally recognized industry brands.

Outline:

• COMM1101 - Language and Communications (3 credits): This course focuses on developing effective communication skills, crucial for client interactions and professional development.
• ESTH1103 - Skin Care Practicum I (3 credits): This practicum provides hands-on experience in basic skin care techniques and procedures.
• ESTH1402 - Fundamental Hand and Foot Care Techniques (3 credits): This course introduces students to the techniques and procedures for manicures and pedicures.

Term Two (2025 Winter):

• ESTH1105 - Hair Removal I (3 credits): This course covers various hair removal techniques, including waxing and laser hair removal.
• ESTH1106 - Makeup I (3 credits): This course introduces students to basic makeup application techniques and principles.
• ESTH1203 - Skin Care Practicum II (3 credits): This practicum builds upon the skills learned in Term One, focusing on advanced skin care techniques.
• ESTH1204 - Skin Care Theory II (3 credits): This course delves deeper into skin care theory, covering advanced skin conditions and treatments.
• ESTH1502 - Advanced Hand and Foot Care Techniques (3 credits): This course focuses on advanced techniques for manicures and pedicures.
• ESTH1109 - Esthetics Clinic I (3 credits): This course provides students with practical experience in a simulated spa environment, allowing them to apply their skills in a professional setting.

Term Three (2025 Fall):

• ESTH1108 - Client Education, Retailing and Professionalism (3 credits): This course focuses on client education, product knowledge, and professional ethics.
• ESTH1110 - Spa Treatments I (3 credits): This course introduces students to a variety of spa treatments, including massage, body wraps, and aromatherapy.
• ESTH1303 - Skin Care Practicum III (3 credits): This practicum provides further hands-on experience in advanced skin care treatments.
• ESTH1304 - Skin Care Theory III (3 credits): This course covers advanced skin care theory, including specialized treatments and emerging technologies.
• ESTH1209 - Esthetics Clinic II (3 credits): This course provides further practical experience in a simulated spa environment, allowing students to refine their skills and build confidence.

Term Four (2026 Winter):

• ESTH1111 - Spa Management (3 credits): This course covers the business aspects of running a spa, including marketing, finance, and operations.
• ESTH1206 - Makeup II (3 credits): This course focuses on advanced makeup techniques, including special effects makeup and airbrushing.
• ESTH1210 - Spa Treatments II (3 credits): This course expands upon the spa treatments covered in Term Three, introducing new techniques and modalities.
• NUTN1224 - Nutrition and Wellness (3 credits): This course provides an understanding of nutrition and its impact on overall health and wellness, relevant to esthetic practices.
• ESTH1309 - Esthetics Clinic III (3 credits): This course provides the final practical experience in a simulated spa environment, allowing students to demonstrate their mastery of skills and prepare for their careers.
• ESTH1410 - Best Practices and Trends in Spa Services (3 credits): This course covers current trends and best practices in the spa industry, ensuring graduates are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Practical Assessments: Students are assessed on their ability to perform esthetic services according to industry standards.
• Written Examinations: Written exams test students' theoretical knowledge and understanding of concepts.
• Case Studies: Students analyze real-world scenarios and apply their knowledge to solve problems.
• Portfolio Development: Students create a portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments.
• Client Interactions: Students are assessed on their communication and client service skills.

Teaching:

The Esthetician program at Niagara College employs a variety of teaching methods to engage students and facilitate learning, including:

• Lectures: Lectures provide students with theoretical knowledge and foundational concepts.
• Demonstrations: Instructors demonstrate techniques and procedures, providing visual and practical guidance.
• Hands-on Practice: Students gain practical experience through hands-on exercises and simulations.
• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals share their expertise and insights, providing real-world perspectives.
• Group Projects: Students collaborate on projects, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Careers:

Graduates of the Esthetician program are prepared for a variety of career opportunities in the spa and beauty industry, including:

• Esthetician: Providing a range of skin care, facial, manicure, pedicure, hair removal, and makeup artistry services in various settings.
• Spa Therapist: Offering a variety of spa treatments, including massage, body wraps, and aromatherapy.
• Salon Owner/Manager: Managing and operating a salon or spa business.
• Product Specialist: Providing expert advice and education on beauty products.
• Makeup Artist: Specializing in makeup application for various events and occasions.

Other:

• Electives: Students are required to complete additional General Education elective courses throughout the program.
• Computer/Technology Requirements: Students are responsible for having a Microsoft Windows 10 based desktop or laptop system that meets specific requirements.
• Land Acknowledgement: Niagara College acknowledges the land on which it is located as the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples.