Cosmetology School:
Nail Technician Training

Cosmetology School Programs and Nail Care

Cosmetology program graduates have more opportunities for success in nail technology than ever before. As the spa and beauty industry continues to grow at record speed, nail salons are popping up in just about every suburban shopping mall. Many people now view regular manicures and pedicures as essential grooming services – not to mention the growing popularity of nail beautification techniques, such as acrylic and gel nails.

If you're interested in starting a career in nail technology, you might wonder what kind of training you need. Should you attend cosmetology school or a separate nail technology program? The following information will help you review your options and make the right decision.

Learning Nail Technology in Cosmetology School

Cosmetology school offers a comprehensive education in the art and science of beauty care, including hairstyling, skin care, make-up and nail care. All cosmetology schools teach basic nail artistry, including manicures and pedicures. Many also teach nail extensions and other techniques.

However, the emphasis in most cosmetology programs is on hair rather than nails. With so many hairstyling skills and techniques to include—cutting, styling, perming, coloring, bleaching, waving, relaxing, straightening, shampooing—cosmetology schools will offer more training in hair care than in nail care. Cosmetology school graduates may have to take additional courses if they want to learn specialized nail techniques, such as acrylic tips and nail art.

Nail Technology Diploma Programs

Nail technology diploma programs are typically much shorter than comprehensive cosmetology programs—about one-quarter the length. These specialized nail technology programs do not address hair care, skin care or makeup. They focus exclusively on nail artistry skills and go into greater detail than what you'd find in a cosmetology school. In addition to manicures and pedicures, you will learn advanced nail care and beauty techniques such as fill-ins, sculptured nails and fiberglass wraps. You will gain a thorough understanding of the chemicals and products involved in nail care. You will also learn necessary communication skills, business skills, laws and ethics to prepare you for an entry-level position in a nail salon.

Choosing the Right Cosmetology Program

Consider the following factors when choosing between cosmetology school and nail technology school:

• Licensing requirements in your state. Before choosing a school program, learn what your state requires in the way of licensing. A cosmetology program will prepare you for the cosmetologist licensing exam, which will allow you to perform all kinds of nail care, as well as hair, skin and make-up services. A nail technician, manicurist or nail specialist license is more specific and requires fewer hours of training. Licensing requirements vary greatly from state to state, so be sure to review the standards in the state where you plan to work, particularly if you're considering a school in a different state.
• Career focus vs. flexibility. Nail technician school limits your career advancement options to the nail care industry. Cosmetology programs provide a broader training foundation that gives you more flexibility to move into virtually any area of the beauty industry.
• Time and money. If you're sure that nail technology is the career for you, nail technology school is definitely faster and less expensive. However, the additional investment of time and money in cosmetology school may pay off in the long run, depending on your career interests and goals.

Entering the Nail Care Industry

Take a hard look at whether cosmetology school or nail school is best for you, but don't delay. Right now is the perfect time to get into the nail care field and take advantage of employment opportunities in new nail salons and day spas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of manicurists and pedicurists is expected to grow by 28 percent between 2006 and 2016. So consider your goals, consider your options, consider your state's licensing requirements, and choose a school. You'll be well on your way to a rewarding career.

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Looking for Spa and Massage Schools?

Try our Spa, Massage & Beauty Schools page. There you will find a comprehensive list of schools which offer program descriptions. You can also request information from the schools that interest you most.

Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009
Empire Beauty Schools, 2009
Daytona College, 2009
Sunstate Academy, 2009