15 Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC| 

Esthetics, also known as esthiology, is one of the most rapidly expanding fields in Columbia SC. As more women and men rank self-care and wellness, they seek out professionals who can assist them in improving their skin. 

You can become a knowledgeable skin care specialist in as little as six months by getting trained in one of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC. If you’re interested in a rewarding skin care career in esthetics, keep reading to find out what to expect regarding training and certification. 

You have to read this: How can I become an Esthetician in a Short time? Schools, Licenses, Salary & Cost

Why Become An Esthetician In Columbia SC?

The top reasons to become an esthetician go beyond skin care for health or beauty. Estheticians are skin care specialists (with licenses) who have received extensive training in a wide range of procedures. This training takes less time and money than traditional college, and it’s also a profession that is usually in high demand. 

Here are a few other reasons why you should consider studying esthetics in the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC:

1. Esthetician Schools in Columbia are less costly

Many people consider esthetician schools because it is less expensive than a traditional four-year college. However, not all esthetician programs are the same, so make sure to inquire about any fees that may be included in your program’s tuition. 

Check out: 15 Best Esthetician Schools in Las Vegas | 2024

2. It’s less time-consuming than college

A four-year degree takes four years to complete but esthetician programs can be completed in less time. If you were attending school full-time, a 600-hour esthetics course, for example, could take about four months to complete. It usually takes between six months and a year for many students, which is still less time than a college degree.

3. Estheticians’ job market is expanding

Esthetics is a popular and expanding field. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job opportunities for estheticians are very promising, with an 11 % increase expected by 2028. This upbeat outlook could be attributed to the growing popularity of skincare products. Reddit’s “Skincare Addiction” sub, for example, has over one million subscribers. 

Estheticians with many skillsets may have more job opportunities, including positions as a paramedical esthetician, salon esthetician, beauty editor, makeup artist, and others. 

4. Esthetics Can Provide Independence

People will need skincare services no matter where you are in the world. An education in esthetics can enable you to work when and where you want. Some people enjoy esthetics because it allows them to work from home or provide in-home services. Others like the profession of esthetician because they want to work in a dermatologist’s office. 

Others Can Benefit from Estheticians

Most estheticians chose their profession because they enjoy assisting others. This is a field for people who enjoy assisting clients in looking and feeling better. Whether a client has acne, dull skin, or seasonal sensitivities, an esthetician has the training to recommend treatments and a routine for the future. 

Can You Take Online Esthetics Classes In the Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC?

Online esthetician schools are ideal for Columbia SC students who work full-time and have family obligations that make attending a traditional school difficult. There are lots of online beauty school programs that students can access in their leisure time. 

More traditional beauty programs are mostly fast-paced because many courses are only six or eight months long. This implies that a large amount of time is spent in the classroom. With online programs, you are dealing with the same amount of material, but you are not devoting lots of hours away from your home or traveling to and fro from classes.

Read: How Much Do Esthetician Schools Cost in 2024; Tuition and Supplies

How Much Do The Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC Cost?

The average tuition for an esthetics program at Columbia ranges between $3,000 and $10,000. The cost of the program will vary depending on the length of the program, its location, and the number of required training hours. 

Other fees associated with attending an esthetic program in the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC may include textbooks, registration, and equipment fees, which depends on the program.

Check this: 15 Esthetician Schools Online: Courses, Schools & Certification

Overview Of The Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC

Columbia is known for its high-quality higher education. While the city is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, it also develops the majority of students in esthetics. Below is an overview of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC.

• Southeastern College – Columbia 
• Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology – Columbia West 
• Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology – Columbia East 
• Southeastern Esthetics Institute 
• University of South Carolina 
• Columbia International University 
• Fortis College – Columbia 
• Columbia College – South Carolina 
• Columbia Academy of Cosmetology – West Columbia 
• Paul Mitchell School 
• South University of Columbia 
• Allen University
• Benedict College 
• WL Bonner College
• Midlands Technical College

Read this also: 15 Best Esthetician Schools in Seattle | 2024

Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC 

Here’s a categorized list of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC, together with details on the tuition cost, acceptance rate, application fee, and means of contact.

Medical Esthetician Schools 

What distinguishes medical esthetics is that it is performed on patients in a clinical setting alongside medical professionals who may recommend non-invasive skincare procedures for medical or strictly cosmetic reasons. Medical estheticians make a positive difference in the lives of the patients they work with. They work to promote the healing of affected skin or simply assist a patient in regaining confidence after an appearance-changing injury or procedure.

Some of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC that fall under this category include:

1. Southeastern College – Columbia 

Southeastern College is a learning community dedicated to providing career education and skill development in a personalized setting. The institute focuses on the specialized skills and knowledge required for today’s market by offering courses that provide you with experiential and career management development.

Southeastern College’s Professional Clinical Massage Therapy program provides you with advanced training in therapeutic massage treatment. Niche recently ranked the program as one of the best in South Carolina, preparing students for work in medical facilities or spa settings. 

Tuition cost: $31,337 /year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $50

Visit School here

2. The Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology (Columbia West)

Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology (Columbia West) is a for-profit college in Seven Oaks, South Carolina, near Columbia. It is a small college with only 50 undergraduate students. The Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology has a perfect acceptance rate. 

Cosmetology and Cosmetology Instruction, Esthetician and skin care, as well as Salon Management, are popular majors. Its graduates earn an average starting salary of $16,200. 

Tuition cost: $16,444 /year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $100

Visit School here

3. The Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology (Columbia East)

This campus, conveniently located near Interstate 77 and downtown Columbia, SC, features open-concept classrooms, a large student break area, and a special admissions lounge. Because the campus is only a few minutes away from Fort Jackson, we are very military-friendly!

Kenneth Shuler Cosmetology is a for-profit college in Columbia. It is a small college with 85 undergraduate students. Popular majors include Esthetician and Skin Care, Cosmetology, Cosmetology Instruction, and Salon Management. Kenneth Shuler Cosmetology – Columbia East graduates can expect to earn a starting salary of $16,200.

Tuition cost: $13,837/year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $100 

Visit School here

4. Southeastern Esthetics Institute 

The Esthetics Institute is a for-profit educational institution. It is a small university with 112 undergraduate students enrolled. The acceptance rate at Southeastern Esthetics Institute is 100 percent. Esthetician and Skin Care is the only major available for you. 

Tuition cost: $17,433 /year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $100

Visit School here

Accredited Esthetician Schools 

It is critical to ensure that the esthetician training program you choose is accredited. Accreditation should be provided by a US Department of Education-approved local or national organization, such as the National Accrediting Commission for Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS). NACCAS-accredited programs must meet their high standards, which guarantee a superior curriculum and education. 

Accreditation may also be required to obtain student loans or financial aids which are typically not available to non-accredited schools. Accreditation of training is also required for licensing in some states. Also, many Columbia SC employers will not hire recent graduates from non-accredited schools or may look favorably on individuals with accredited training. 

Here’s a list of a few of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC that are accredited.

5. University of South Carolina 

The University of South Carolina is a prestigious public university in Columbia, South Carolina. It is a large university with a student body of 26,174 undergraduates. Admissions are a bit competitive. 

Finance, public health, and marketing are popular majors. South Carolina graduates earn an average starting salary of $38,000, with 78 percent graduating.

Tuition cost: $31,337/year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $50

Visit School here

6. Columbia International University 

Columbia International University educates people from a Biblical worldview to impact the nations with Christ’s message. CIU is a regionally accredited university with approximately 1700 students on campus and online. The university has a growing reputation for training professional ministers and ministering professionals with a tremendous kingdom impact, with 19,000 graduates serving in over 150 countries around the world.

Tuition cost: $18,651 /year

Acceptance rate: 48% 

Application fee: $25

Visit School here

7. Fortis College – Columbia 

Fortis College is a for-profit college in Columbia. It is a small college with a total enrollment of 568 undergraduate students. Dental Assisting, Medical Assistant, and HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering Technician are popular majors. Fortis college graduates earn a starting salary of $25,600, with 49 percent graduating.

Tuition cost: $22,684/year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $0

Visit School here

8. Columbia College – South Carolina 

Columbia College is also a Christian private college in Columbia, South Carolina. It is a small college with a total enrollment of 641 undergraduate students. The college majors include criminal Justice and Safety Studies, Homeland Security and Disaster Management, and Business. Columbia college graduates earn a starting salary of $27,400, with 66 percent graduating.

Tuition cost: $20,277 /year

Acceptance rate: 97%

Application fee: $0

Visit School here

Licensed Esthetician Schools 

The majority of states require estheticians to be licensed, but the requirements differ from state to state. In most cases, you must complete a state-approved educational program and pass a licensing exam before you can practice. Additionally, states require you to complete a certain number of supervised training hours as part of the licensing process. 

A few of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC that can get you to become a licensed esthetician in Columbia include:

9. Columbia Academy of Cosmetology – West Columbia 

This is one of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC with a program intended for aspiring cosmetologists who know what they want. This program can be completed in nine months, and you will gain a foundation in business skills as well as the artistic side of cosmetology that you will need to excel as an expert in this field. 

After graduation, the school will assist you in obtaining your first job or placement. Classes for the program are made available both during the day and in the evenings. Your teachers attend cosmetology workshops and seminars regularly to stay current on the latest developments in this ever-changing and transformative field. 

Tuition cost: $18,000

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10. Paul Mitchell School 

Paul Mitchell School is another for-profit college in Columbia, South Carolina. It is a small university with only 147 undergraduate students. Cosmetology, Barbering, Cosmetology Instruction, and Salon Management are its popular majors. It’s one of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC worth attending.

Tuition cost: $11,901/year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $100 

Visit School here

11. South University of Columbia 

The South University of Columbia has been serving “Cola Town” since 2002. They are united in their dedication to their students’ success. From your first contact with the faculty and staff to graduation and working with career services, they are committed to assisting you in succeeding and laying the groundwork for your personal and professional fulfillment.  

Tuition cost: $20,761 /year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $0

Visit School here

Cheap Esthetician Schools 

South Carolina has various esthetician schools with high tuition costs, good training, and education. However, there are some less expensive schools with certification that also give good esthetics education and training. The best esthetician schools in Columbia SC with less expensive tuition costs include: 

12. Allen University

AU is a Christian private university in Columbia, South Carolina. As a historically black college, AU has a long history of and commitment to black American education. It is a small university with 577 undergraduate students enrolled. 

The acceptance rate at AU is 65 percent, making admissions somewhat competitive. Social Science Research Methods, Biology, and Business are popular majors. AU graduates earn a starting salary of $15,900, accounting for 19% of all students.

Tuition cost: $13,858 /year

Acceptance rate: 65%

Application fee: $25

Visit School here

13. Benedict College 

Benedict College is also a private Christian college in Columbia, South Carolina. It is a small university with only 1,700 undergraduate students. The college’s popular majors are Sport and Fitness Management, Business, Criminal Justice, and Law Enforcement Administration. Benedict graduates earn an average starting salary of $19,300, accounting for 28 percent of all students.  

Tuition cost: $12,155 /year

Acceptance rate: 77%

Application fee: $25

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14. W L Bonner College

W L Bonner College is a small Christian private college in Columbia, South Carolina. Religious Education, Theological and Ministerial Studies, and Religious Vocations are all popular majors. W L Bonner graduates every single student.

Tuition cost: $13,622 /year

Acceptance rate: Unspecified

Application fee: $30

Visit School here

15. Midlands Technical College 

Midlands Tech is a South Carolina public college. It’s a college with a total enrollment of 3,770 undergraduate students. Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Health Service Preparatory Studies are popular majors. Midlands Tech graduates earn a starting salary of $25,300, accounting for 19% of all students. 

Tuition cost: $6,107 /year

Acceptance rate: 100%

Application fee: $35

Visit School here

How Long Will It Take To Attend The Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC?

Because estheticians are highly trained, in-demand skincare experts, an esthetics program requires approximately 600 hours of hands-on training. The program length is directly related to the number of training hours required in your state, and most schools require some hands-on training to comply with state requirements.

To become a licensed Esthetician in Columbia, South Carolina, you must complete 450 – 600 hours of education and pass the required testing.  

How To Become An Esthetician In Columbia SC: A Short Guide

All estheticians must have the same state-issued license. Typically, becoming an esthetician involves obtaining the necessary formal education and training, passing the exams required for state licensure, and pursuing advanced credentials through continuing education.

The typical path to initial licensure is to complete a formal esthetics program recognized by a national accrediting body. The program you have to complete must meet the minimum requirements for initial licensure as determined by the Board of Cosmetology and Esthetics in each state. Each state establishes its minimum number of practice hours or total program hours required for initial licensure. Practice requirements typically range between 300 and 750 hours. 

Esthetics programs teach you the art and science of skin analysis, disease identification, and the various techniques used to treat various skin conditions. The clinical experience which often takes place in a student salon setting supplements classroom education in an esthetics program. Student salons offer a closely monitored real-world environment in which you can put what you’ve learned into practice while working with real clients.

Most programs also offer students guidance and specific instruction on how to pass the state board examination process. More advanced esthetics procedures programs in the medical setting are generally reserved for licensed estheticians and are not widely available. Many programs also collaborate with medical groups and medical spas to give students valuable, hands-on experience in a medical setting.

In addition, a few states recognize apprenticeship programs as a route to licensure instead of a formal esthetics program. In an apprenticeship program, aspiring estheticians receive hands-on training from a licensed esthetician, though this route to initial licensure typically takes much longer to complete. Those who want to get their first license through an apprenticeship program must first get approval from their state’s Board of Cosmetology and Esthetics.

Pass the state and national licensing examinations

To qualify candidates for initial licensure, each state maintains an examination process. In general, examinees must be at least 16 years old to take the basic exam. Most states require candidates to have completed at least the 10th grade, though a few states require a high school diploma.

Many states now use the National-Interstate Council on State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) practical and/or written examination, while others require candidates to take state-specific examinations.

The following domains are covered in the National Esthetics Practical Examination:

• Face cleansing and steaming
• Makeup for the face Facial mask
• Eyebrow hair removal Manual extraction of the forehead
• Massage of the face
• Setup and client security
• The core domains of the National Esthetics Written Examination are as follows:
• Scientific ideas (chemistry, human physiology, sanitation, infection control, etc.)
• Practices in Esthetics (cleansing procedures, extraction procedures, hair removal procedures, etc.)

Conclusion

Improving the quality of life for others is a rewarding and fulfilling way to build a career. If you find skincare interesting then being an esthetician may be for you! There’s no better way to get started than choosing the right esthetic school. Let this guide consisting of the best esthetician schools in Columbia SC help in making your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions On The Best Esthetician Schools In Columbia SC

References

• Niche.com – Top Colleges for Cosmetology in the Columbia Area
• Beautyschoolsdirectory.com – Esthetician Schools
• Studyestheticsedu.com – How to Enroll In the Best Esthetician Classes Near Columbia South Carolina
• Thestudioacademyofbeauty.com – Why You Should Become an Esthetician
• Estheticianedu.org – Esthetician License Requirements and Training Schools in South Carolina

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