Finding the Right Spa or Beauty School for You

Which Spa or Beauty School is Right for You?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a cosmetology school, beauty school, massage school or other spa training program. You want a school that will adequately prepare you for a successful career. You also want to enjoy a fulfilling and exciting educational experience. The ideal school will both strengthen your passion and provide a solid education for your chosen career.

There are two main types of schools:

• State licensing oriented - Designed to prepare students to pass state board exams and earn a license in their field. Most cosmetology and massage schools fall into this category.
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• Job skill oriented - Focused on teaching you new skills in your existing profession or training you to start a new career. These programs may or may not prepare you to apply for certification in your chosen field.

Your career goals and the laws in the state where you plan to practice will determine which type of school is right for you. In most states, you will need a license to practice as a hair stylist, barber, nail technician, cosmetologist, massage therapist or electrologist. Job skill training may be sufficient for you to start a career as a physical fitness trainer, Reiki practitioner, make-up artist or aromatherapist. The laws vary widely between states in smaller and newer specialties like reflexology, colon hydrotherapy and permanent make-up. Make sure you understand the laws in the state where you plan to practice before you commit to a school.

Below are some additional questions to ask prospective schools and factors to consider when making your decision.

Is the school accredited or approved by national organizations in the profession?

Accreditation means that a school meets minimal national standards of educational performance and is recognized by the Department of Education. Accrediting agencies evaluate the quality of the school's curriculum, faculty, admissions policies and facilities. Accreditation is the most reliable way to know that a school takes quality education seriously.

In some states and professions, training from an accredited school is necessary to earn your license. When it is not mandatory, some schools choose not to pursue accreditation. Accreditation can be an expensive and involved process. So lack of accreditation doesn't necessarily mean that the program isn't good enough to achieve accreditation standards; it could be that a small program may not have the time and money to obtain and sustain accreditation. You can also check to see whether or not a school has applied for accreditation, failed or lost accreditation if you notice that a school of interest does not currently have an accrediting body.

Even if they are not eligible for accreditation, schools that are committed to training qualified professionals usually align themselves with national standards of training. Look for schools that are approved by the most respected national association or organization in your chosen field.

Is the school a good match with my background?

Whether you are starting your first career or seeking training to enhance your existing practice, it helps if the curriculum is designed for people with your professional skills and experience. For example, there are colonic therapy programs designed specifically for medical professionals, aromatherapy courses designed for massage therapists and permanent make-up courses designed for estheticians.

Will I get credit for my existing training?

If you already have training in your profession of choice or a related field, some programs will give you partial credit or allow you to test out of some courses. If you want to move from one related field to another, you may be able to take a less intensive course of training. For example, licensed massage therapists seeking certification in reflexology may not have to repeat their anatomy and physiology studies.

How much course flexibility does the school offer?

Some programs are rigidly structured to give all students the same comprehensive course of training. Others offer multiple tracks, so you can receive basic training as well as specialized training in your area of focus. There may be core courses that you must take and a choice of elective courses for your remaining credit hours. You may have to take courses in a specified order, or you may be able to take them whenever they work in your schedule.

How much hands-on experience will I get?

For many of these professions, hands-on practice is essential. For example, in cosmetology and massage school, students are required to practice techniques on friends, classmates or volunteers for a given number of hours before they can receive credit. Make sure to look for a program that offers hands-on training to gain the skills you need before you can practice your chosen profession.

Some specialties, like aromatherapy, complement other hands-on specialties and may be conveniently offered through distance learning programs. A home study program may be adequate for you to learn the properties of all the essential oils, methods for blending and other necessary skills.

In many professions, however, hands-on practice is essential. A cosmetology or massage program that offers little or no supervised practice time will not prepare you very well for working in the real world. Theoretical knowledge just isn't the same as observing actual sessions and learning by doing-especially in the spa and beauty industries.

Where is it located?

Training in a convenient location is crucial to completing the program. If your specialty program is only one intensive workshop or on occasional weekends, it may be acceptable to travel a long distance. But for longer programs, think carefully before you commit to a long commute.

When are classes taught?

You need a class schedule that works with your schedule. If you're working full time, you may require evening and weekend courses. Or you may prefer Monday through Friday classes that allow you to complete a full program quickly. Find out how much flexibility you have in scheduling your classes. How frequently are required courses taught? Do you have to take classes in a specific order? Or can you take classes whenever they work in your schedule?

How can I pay for school?

Depending on a wide variety of factors, spa or beauty school may cost anywhere from $500 to $15,000. You should ask yourself whether the cost of your school aligns with your career goals budget. Many schools offer financial aid and will work with you to find additional assistance if you need it. You may qualify for scholarships, low interest loans or federal and state grants. Even if you don't qualify for aid or scholarships, many schools offer interest-free payment plans.

Related Articles:

• Spa and Beauty School Accreditation
• How Do the Top Spa and Massage Schools Compare?
• How Do the Top Beauty Schools Compare?
• Find the Field that Fits
• Paying for Massage & Beauty School

View all our Spa and Beauty Articles to learn more about the spa, massage and beauty industry.

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