Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology
This course presents information about the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the human body, as well as conditions and diseases (pathology) of each body system, with emphasis on pathologies commonly encountered in the practice of esthetics. Also presented are the physiological effects of touch and the physiological mechanisms and principles involved in the effects of hydrotherapy. 1 credit hour (30 clock hours)

Esthetics Techniques
This is a hands-on course consisting of time spent in the classroom practicing all of the sanitation techniques, skin care techniques and protocols for all of the treatments taught in the program.  This course supports the student’s learning process by providing the opportunity to integrate the information presented in the Science of Skin Care course with hands-on skills.  6 credit hours (180 clock hours)

Esthetics Student Clinic
The Student Clinic course begins with an orientation to clinic policies and procedures, preparing students to successfully participate in this component of the program. Students develop their skills for creating and completing client records. Students review proper use of esthetics terminology, how to take a client’s medical history, and client case management.

On Student Clinic days, students perform esthetics treatments with members of the public. The Instructor provides support, instruction, feedback and evaluation of the student’s work. Students also receive oral and written feedback from each client. Students learn how to work with clients who have a variety of skin types and conditions. Students learn case management, focusing not only on the treatment plan for each day’s treatment session, but also on recommending products and routines for clients to perform at home as well as setting forth a long-term treatment plan for repeated treatments over time. 5 credit hours (150 clock hours)

Professional Development
Success as an esthetician is determined not only by scientific knowledge and good hands-on skills; several other factors are crucial in preparing students to succeed in the skin care profession. This course requires students to grow personally, developing behaviors, attitudes and abilities including:  awareness of personal values and beliefs; understanding of one’s personality type and one’s impact on others; understanding of ethical principles and how to respond appropriately to a variety of ethical dilemmas; communication skills and conflict resolution; establishing and maintaining professional boundaries; and understanding numerous dynamics of the client-esthetician relationship. Additionally, this course supports students in practicing good self care and proper body mechanics, to maximize their longevity in the profession. A wellness model of health care is presented, and students create a self-care plan to guide them in striving to maintain their physical, emotional and spiritual health and well being. Students learn to assess and correct their posture, breathing habits, and tension-holding patterns, which enables them to develop good body mechanics habits. Also presented is information about the importance of continuing education and how to select advanced training programs that will result in better performance, more knowledge and advanced skills. 2 credit hours (60 clock hours)

Business
To meet the requirements of the Business course, students must create realistic, specific plans for both employment and private practice in the field of esthetics. Emphasis is placed on identifying each step that each individual student will take upon graduation to pursue their particular interests and begin working in their preferred setting. Topics include marketing, client record keeping, budgeting, strategies for success as an employee, customer service and client retention, legal requirements, salon/spa management, licensure, certification, and professional associations. 1 credit hour (30 clock hours)

Science of Skin Care
This course presents the theory and principles of the practice of esthetics. Included are detailed technical information and specific protocols for all treatments presented in the esthetics program. Emphasis is placed on safe, effective treatments and the proper use of tools, equipment and products. 6 credit hours (180 clock hours)

Medical and Holistic Skin Care
This course presents advanced treatments that are performed in the offices of medical practitioners and/or at medical spas. Students receive the information they need to prepare them for work as medical estheticians. Current trends in the profession are reviewed, focusing on spa menu selections such as reflexology, lymphatic drainage, and other practices.  Research of esthetics treatments and skin care products is also presented, and students learn to use critical thinking skills when reading the results of research studies.  1 credit hour (30 clock hours)