Specialize in the fast-growing world of skincare (facials, waxing, makeup, and lashes) and earn your license in as few as 600 hours.
The Esthetician Program at Elevate Academy is designed to prepare students for a successful career in the skincare industry through hands-on education, personalized instruction, and real-world experience. Students develop the technical skills, product knowledge, and professional confidence needed to provide high-quality skincare services while meeting all Colorado state licensure requirements.
Our 600-hour (20-credit) program combines classroom instruction with supervised clinic floor training, giving students the opportunity to apply what they learn in a professional salon and spa environment. Throughout the program, students receive comprehensive training in facials, hair removal, makeup application, lash and brow services, skin analysis, sanitation, infection control, client consultation, retailing, and business development.
Before beginning clinic floor hours, students must successfully complete the foundational esthetics curriculum and demonstrate competency in both theory and practical skills. Once these requirements have been met, students transition to the clinic floor, where they perform services on guests under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. This hands-on experience builds confidence, professionalism, and the real-world skills needed for a successful career.
Students learn from experienced licensed professionals and guest educators who bring years of industry expertise into the classroom. By integrating technical education, business training, and client experience throughout the program, Elevate Academy prepares graduates not only to pass the Colorado state licensing examination, but also to build rewarding, long-term careers in the beauty industry.
All classroom instruction, clinic floor training, and state licensing examinations are conducted in English in accordance with Colorado state requirements.
ELEVATE ACADEMY provides students with comprehensive skills, information, and training through thorough and reliable theoretical and practical instruction. The goal is to enable successful program completion, prepare students for the State Board examination, and educate them in cultivating professional attitudes and habits essential for initial employment and ongoing career enhancement. By delivering a robust and reliable education, ELEVATE ACADEMY aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen field, fostering a foundation for continuous professional growth and advancement.
Competency-based and hours-tracked toward Colorado (DORA) licensure. Here's how the 600 hours break down.
Theory of Massage, Benefits, & Techniques, Histology of Skin, Diseases & Disorders of the Skin, Products, Ingredients, Use & Application, Consultation, Analysis & Preparation, Facial & Skin Care Techniques, Skin Care Treatments, Light Therapy, Masks & Packs Therapy & Treatments, Microdermabrasion & Chemical Exfoliation.
Color Theory & Analysis, Cosmetic Product Ingredients & Chemistry, Cosmetic/Makeup Applications & Techniques, Artificial Lash Application, Lash & Brow Tinting
Physical & Chemical Depilatories Theory, Chemistry & Product Knowledge, Client Consultation, Analysis & Safety, Physical Depilatory Procedures & Techniques, Chemical Depilatory Procedures & Techniques.
Local, State & Federal Laws and Statutes, School Rules, Regulations & Policies.
People Skills, Communication & Human Relations, Professionalism, Management & Ethics, Salesmanship Skills & Traits.
Bacteriology & Infection Control, Sanitation Practices in the Workplace, Patron Protection, Draping, Material Safety Data Sheets, OSHA in the workplace, Standards & Regulations, Public Sanitation Methods, Chemical Agents, Types, Classifications, Safe Use & Handling .
The Esthetician program at ELEVATE ACADEMY focuses on preventive skin care, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain healthy and attractive skin. The program consists of 20 credit hours, incorporating both theoretical and practical skill development to meet the requirements of the Office of Barber and Cosmetologist Licensing.
Before engaging in laboratory activities, students must successfully complete the basic esthetics curriculum, demonstrating proficiency in both theory and practical skills. Graduates receive a certification upon completion of the program.
Classes are taught by ELEVATE ACADEMY instructors or industry-specialized contractors, ensuring a thorough and well-rounded educational experience. The curriculum effectively integrates theory and practice throughout. All examinations, administered by the Office of Barber and Cosmetologist Licensing or designated testing agencies, are conducted in English, with students required to submit answers in English. All educational activities, including classroom instruction and clinic floor training, are conducted exclusively in English.
Your license is portable and in demand. Graduates go on to roles like these, in established salons and spas, or building a book of their own.
The complete license Our flagship program. Master hair, color, skin, and nails, and graduate ready for any chair in the industry: the broadest license you can earn.
Focus on hair A hair-focused path into cutting, color, and styling for the stylist who knows their craft is hair and wants to get behind the chair faster.
The art of nails A focused, creative license you can finish in 600 hours: manicures, pedicures, enhancements, and nail art, ready for the salon or your own table.
The barber’s craft Fades, clipper work, beard design, and the straight razor. Train in modern barbering on real guests and graduate ready for the shop floor or your own chair.
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