Esthetics and Nail Technology Certificate

This program is currently under review for Fall 2024. 
To be added to the interest list, please contact Leslee Stephenson at lstephenson@okanagan.bc.ca 
Once more information is available May/June 2024, you will be contacted.


Gain the skills and knowledge required for work in the esthetics and spa industry. Learn the latest industry techniques for a wide range of treatments, including undergraduate training with Dermalogica.

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Campus

  • Vernon
View schedule and campus details
Legend:
  • Full program offered
  • Partial program offered

Credential

Certificate

Delivery options

Full-Time

Tuition and fees

2023-24: $11,142.68

Program details

In this 43-week (1,100-hour) program, students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the field of professional Esthetics and Nail Technology. Students learn the latest industry techniques for a wide range of treatments including spa level manicures and pedicures, artificial nail enhancements, skin care and facials, waxing essentials, aromatherapy, reflexology, relaxation and hot stone massage, body scrubs and wraps, eye lash and brow tinting and make-up foundations. A blend of theory and practical application ensures the graduates are prepared to work in day spas, destination spas, on a cruise ship, or in their own entrepreneurial venture.

In addition to obtaining Okanagan College certification, students will be prepared for membership with industry associations should they choose to pursue them.

Esthetics & Nail Technology Instructor photo

 

Sherri McCarthy began her career in the esthetics industry over 20 years ago and has been involved in many aspects of the industry including nail technician, esthetician, salon and spa owner and manager. Sherri joined Okanagan College’s Spa Training Centre in 2015 after completing the provincial instructor diploma and having eight years’ experience teaching in the field of esthetics. Sherri is a passionate and enthusiastic instructor with a natural ability to inspire others. Sherri believes the most rewarding part of teaching in this exciting industry is sharing her knowledge and making a difference in the lives of students. 

 

 

 

 

Esthetics & Nail Technology Instructor photo

 

Missy MacKintosh is an internationally acclaimed professional makeup artist. Her work featured in Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, or Daily Mail, while transforming Disney Inspired Photo into Disney’s iconic Villains. Graduated from Blanche McDonald Center and Make Up For Ever Academy – Paris, she has over 15 years of experience. Missy has worked on countless international publications, campaigns, and has an extensive background in cosmetic retailing working for companies such as Make Up For Ever and Nars. Known for her creativity and perfectionism, Missy is constantly pushing herself to think outside of the box and try new techniques.

 

  • PreEmpt Infection Control certification
  • Dermalogica additional workshops via d-streaming and Clean Touch certification
  • Makeup Foundations taught by Missy MacKintosh of MisMacK Clean Cosmetic
  • Daily, responsive instructor support as well as support from other program staff
  • Dedicated online and in-person student supports (Aboriginal, Accessibility, Counselling and Library Services)
  • Industry field trips, guest speakers and ESI International Spa Tradeshow
Experience our professional spa services.

We are pleased to offer a full range of spa services by our Esthetics and Nail Technology students in a professional and relaxing environment. We also retail a variety of natural spa products made in the Okanagan by Natural Concepts Ltd. as well Dermalogica Skin Care products. We invite you to pamper yourself!

Learn more: Spa Training Services | Okanagan College

When applying online, choose Continuing Studies as the faculty.

Campus Start date Schedule
Vernon Sep. 05, 2023

Scheduled Monday - Friday and some Saturdays 8:30am - 3:00pm

Admission requirements

  • B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent, or 19 years of age and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes
  • A scheduled mandatory meeting with Esthetics and Nail Technology staff to discuss their interest in the industry, to clarify program requirements and to provide counselling on entry into the program.

Program outline

Complete All of the following:
ESNT 101 - History and Professionalism in Esthetics
ESNT 102 - Infection Control: Principles and Practice
ESNT 103 - General Esthetic Sciences
ESNT 104 - Nail Structure & Growth: Diseases and Disorders
ESNT 105 - Natural Nail Care: Manicures and Pedicures
ESNT 106 - Artificial Nail Enhancements: Techniques and Procedures
ESNT 107 - The Skin Sciences
ESNT 108 - Product Selection and Ingredients: Making Informed Choices
ESNT 109 - Skin Care and Facials
ESNT 110 - Waxing Essentials
ESNT 111 - Aromatherapy: An Introduction
ESNT 112 - Reflexology for the Esthetician
ESNT 113 - Relaxation Massage and Hot Stone Therapy
ESNT 114 - Body Scrubs and Body Wraps
ESNT 115 - Introduction to Advanced Esthetics
ESNT 116 - Eyelash and Brow Tinting
ESNT 117 - Make-Up Foundations
ESNT 118 - Business Skills, Retailing and Career Skills
ESNT 119 - Practical Skills
ESNT 120 - Advanced Practical Skills
ESNT 121 - Practicum
Students must pass the practicum and achieve a minimum grade of 70 per cent in all other courses of the program.
Additional information

View the official Calendar details and policies
Learn more about the department
View the Tuition and fees page

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