Melanie MoralesDo you want to enter the world of beauty and esthetics? If so, then this list that we’ve put together is exactly what you need!
Whether it’s for improving your own personal make-up technique or expanding your knowledge as an esthetician, formal training has its benefits. We’ve combed through all the beauty schools in Edmonton and put together this list based on their courses, reputations, and students’ testimonials.
If you’re ready, let’s take a look at the best beauty schools in Edmonton.
How Much Do Beauty Schools Cost in Edmonton?
If you’re researching beauty schools, it’s safe to assume that tuition fees are one of your top concerns at the moment, so let’s get it out of the way.
Beauty schools, just like any other school, have basic tuition fees that vary depending on the course that you apply for. Generally speaking, these are usually diploma courses and certificate programs.
Acquiring a diploma is often more expensive and usually spans a longer amount of time. However, it is usually more comprehensive and is considered a more prestigious qualification than certificates.
With that said, below is a table of some of the diploma and certificate fees of the beauty schools on our list. Due to their wide number of course offerings, we’ve only chosen a few of their featured courses to give you a general idea of costs.
| School | Program | Tuition | Supplies |
| International Academy of Esthetics | ITEC Diploma | $11,950.00 | $1,950.00 |
| Laser Certification | $3,400.00 | $110.00 | |
| MC College | Hairstyling | $12,800.00 | $3,360.00 |
| Esthetics | $12,300.00 | $2,992.50 | |
| Fashion Design | $14,900.00 | $1,254.75 | |
| Alberta Academy of Aesthetics | Complete Film, Fashion and Theatre Makeup Artistry | $13,300.00 | $2,500.00 |
| Masters Makeup Artistry | $21,125.00 | included | |
| Eveline Charles International Academy | Hairstyling & Barbering | $13,500.00 | $2,800.00 |
| Makeup Artistry | $1,100.00 | $900.00 | |
| European Institute of Aesthetics | Advanced Make-Up Artistry Diploma | $7,100.00 | included |
| Full Esthetic Diploma | $10, 995.00 | included |
Take note that these are just base prices and you should expect other additional charges such as registration fees or the cost of additional learning materials.
The Best Beauty Schools in Edmonton
Now that you know what to expect in tuition fees, we can now take a look at our picks for the top beauty schools in Edmonton.
1. International Academy of Esthetics
| CURRICULUM | ITEC Esthetics Diploma, Laser Hair Removal Training, Spa Therapy, Sterilization & Bacteria, Hygiene & Ethics, Skin Disorders, Cellulite Treatments, Facial Treatments, AHA Acid Treatments, Microdermabrasion, Makeup Application, Manicures, Pedicures, Gel Nails, Waxing, Skin Analysis, Laser Technician Training, Laser Hair Removal, Laser Facials, Laser Spider Vein Reduction, Microdermabrasion, Fluorescent Therapy, Esthetic Certificate and Program Courses |
| WEBSITE | http://iaesthetics.com/ |
| ADDRESS | International Academy of Esthetics 122-150 Chippewa Road, Sherwood Park, Alberta |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 449-1225 Toll-Free: 1-800-352-4383 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm |
If you prefer a small class setting, the International Academy of Esthetics (IAE) should be one of your top picks for a beauty school in Edmonton since they keep it intimate at three people or less for more specialized individual attention.
What we like most about IAE is that they offer a diploma that’s certified by the International Therapy Examination Council or ITEC, which sets international standards for cosmetology students to aspire to. Receiving this diploma grants a higher standard of qualification to pursue careers in leading organizations worldwide.
The program at IAE is a 6-month program with detail-oriented classes that prepare you for the ITEC examination. You can choose a specialization from several programs such as hygiene & ethics, cellulite treatments, aha acid treatments, and microdermabrasion, among others.
If you’re not seeking an ITEC diploma and just want to get certified in laser training, IAE has you covered. Their Certified Laser Practitioner (CLP) Program is an excellent way to upgrade your resume and elevate your career in the beauty industry.
The six-week CLP Program will amp up your knowledge on procedures such as laser hair removal, laser facials, laser spider vein reduction, and many more. After you receive your certificate, you can refer to yourself as a Laser Practitioner, Laser Technician or Medi-Spa Esthetician!
IAE, just like other beauty schools, also offers spa and wellness services on-site. This is a great way to assess if you would like to continue applying for this school after you receive some of their services which include nails, facials, body treatments, waxing, and threading.
Pros
- Offers ITEC certified diploma
- Provides class schedules online
- Offers student aid and government scholarships
Cons
- Laser Technician classes follow inconsistent schedules
- Limited spa and wellness services
- No salon, hairstyling services offered
Customer Reviews
IAE’s ITEC Diploma is the highlight offering from this school. Sam, a former student, was initially hesitant to apply, but is thankful that she did as she shares:
“I did a lot of research on which school to attend, after much thought I chose IAE. I absolutely made the right choice. I was very happy with my time there and was able to secure a job before I graduated. It’s also nice to know that I have an internationally recognized diploma so that no matter where life takes me my education is valid.”
Katie, another former student, enjoyed the intimate class setting, as she writes:
“During my time at IAE, I thoroughly enjoyed the family atmosphere that comes with small class sizes, and the one on one learning experiences. I had three extremely knowledgeable and helpful teachers, and enjoyed the mix of advice I got from their individual years of experience in the Esthetics industry. In the span of the 6 months course, I enjoyed that whenever we learned something new, we would watch a demonstration on it and then get a chance to practically try it. The balance of classroom time and hands on experience made me feel well equipped to graduate and start my career in Esthetics.”
2. MC College
| CURRICULUM | Hairstyling ● Cutting, Barbering, Colouring, Styling, Texture, Hair Extensions Esthetics ● Dermal & Body Therapy, Medi-Spa, Nail Technology, Hair Removal, Enhancements, Make-Up Artistry Fashion Design ● Fashion Fundamentals, Clothing Line Development, Collection Development, Business of Fashion, Advanced Standing Partial Esthetics & Virtual Partial Esthetics ● Artificial Nails, Eyelash Extensions, Hair Removal, Make-up Artistry, Nail Technician, Advanced Lash Enhancement Virtual Partial Esthetics ● Virtual Volume Lashes, Virtual Advanced lash Enhancement, Virtual Artificial nails, Virtual Eyelash Extensions, Virtual Make-Up Artistry |
| WEBSITE | https://www.mccollege.ca/campus/edmonton/ |
| ADDRESS | Location 10345 107 St NW #301 Edmonton, AB T5J 1K3 Corporate Office #901, 10345 107 St., Edmonton, AB T5J 1K3 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 429-4407 Fax: (780) 951-9591 Analia Rubie, Director Phone: (780) 497-3156 Email: [email protected] Enrolment Department Phone: (780) 497-3152 Text: (587) 880-2399 Email: [email protected] Taylor Ferguson, Registration Coordinator Phone: (780) 497-3158 Text: (587) 880-2399 Email: [email protected] Cassandra Anderson, Administrator Phone: (780) 497-3157 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday & Fiday: 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday to Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM |
MC College was originally Marvel Beauty Schools before Frank Cairo, a long-time expert in the industry and owner of Cairo Hairstylists salons, purchased them in 1975. Today, the business is run and operated by his sons who have brought a modern approach to the school’s curriculum.
What we do like about MC College is their Pivot Lab Learn About Beauty (LAB) digital learning platform, which takes a customized approach similar to using social media. LAB was created specifically for the beauty industry and MC College is the first school to implement it in its curriculum.
As a student, LAB gives you access to all the lesson materials online, so that you can use all the instructional media anytime.
Fret not if you have a busy schedule because LAB helps you coordinate your on-campus classes to tailor it to your lifestyle, making it convenient for anybody to receive a diploma. You can also opt for a part-time certificate course under MC College’s Partial Esthetics program, with a virtual option you can take from the comfort of your home.
If you’ve already received cosmetology training at a post-secondary school, there’s a possibility that MC College will accept your credits and place you in advanced standing if you qualify. This can help you save up to $3,300 in tuition fees and shave off up to five months of your program!
Pros
- Pivot Point LAB learning platform
- Multiple schedule options are available
- Virtual/Online partial esthetics certificate program
- Hands-on training with clients in campus salon & spa
Cons
- Expensive
- Less personalized instructor interaction
- No higher institution certification
Customer Reviews
MC College is a reputable school and attracts students with its programs regularly. Mary Jean, now a student at MC College, shares her initial tour experience:
“My first initial take when i walked into the school was the immense professionalism that i encountered when i entered the salon. i was overwhelmed by the size, cleanliness and just how professional and stress free it seamed.”
D.B., a customer at MC College’s salon, describes her first impressions. She says:
“The students were amazingly friendly and warm and genuine. They really took the time to do an excellent job and you can tell that they take great pride in what they were doing. The instructors were also very very friendly and you could see that they treated their students with a genuine level of respect.”
3. Alberta Academy of Aesthetics and One Beauty Academy
| CURRICULUM | Aesthetics, Electrolysis, Waxing, Facials, Nail Technician, Fashion & Theatre Makeup Artistry, Essentials Makeup Artistry, Master Makeup Artistry, Barbering, Blended Hairstyling, Makeup & Aesthetics, Hairstyling, |
| WEBSITE | https://academyofaesthetics.com/ https://oneacademy.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | West Edmonton Mall 424 8882 170 Street Edmonton, AB T5T 3J7 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 486-7201 Fax: (780) 486-7504 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
Alberta Academy of Aesthetics (AAA) was founded by Kelsey D. Yule, a young innovator in the field of beauty and cosmetology. Her passion and motivation helped the school succeed and open 5 Locations in Alberta, including its sister school One Beauty Academy.
What we like about AAA is they don’t just focus on the hard skills of cosmetology such as hair styling, makeup, and aesthetics. They also educate their students to think forward in aspects of business management and sales.
The school offers diverse beauty certificate programs that range from a 3-day course in skincare and spa facial techniques to a 10-month course in advanced clinical and holistic aesthetics.
One of AAA’s highlight programs is the Masters Makeup Artistry Diploma (Aesthetics/Prosthetics), which combines their Essentials Makeup Course with advanced training directed toward techniques used in TV, film, photography, and theatre. The program also includes experiencing a TEMPTU Airbrushing Course and their specialized Hair Boot Camp.
You’ll also get a chance to work on an actual production set to learn firsthand advanced techniques in the entertainment industry. Completing this program includes an Essential Makeup Artistry Diploma and a Special Effects SPFX Certificate.
Moreover, AAA also has a salon that’s open to the general public with all the services performed by students under the supervision of their instructors. Not only does this help them receive the first-hand experience without the need for a model, but it also gives students a chance to earn a little income!
Pros
- Pro Card support system for alumni after graduation
- Masters Makeup Artistry Diploma for the entertainment industry
- Students can earn in hands-on practice in on-site salon
Cons
- No tuition fees posted online
- No ITEC certification
4. Eveline Charles International Academy
| CURRICULUM | Full-time: Hair Styling & Barbering, Professional Advanced Esthetics, and Art of Barbering Part-time: Makeup Artistry Level 1, Makeup Artistry Level 2, Lash Extension Program, Gel Nail Artistry Program, Barbering Craftsmanship |
| WEBSITE | https://ecacademy.com/ |
| ADDRESS | Eveline Charles Academy, West Edmonton Mall 8882 170 St NW #2151, Edmonton, AB T5T 2J2 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Academy Phone: (780) 409-5672 Email: [email protected] Student Salon & Spa Phone: (780) 409-1373 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Academy Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Student Salon & Spa Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm |
Eveline Charles Academy is a specialized school offering only two programs at its institution, with the recent addition of a virtual class.
Their Hairstyling and Barbering diploma course covers a wide range of techniques in areas such as precision hair cutting, British barbering, hair colouring, changing hair texture, and hair extensions. It also includes lessons in theory, business principles, and hands-on mentorship.
What we like about this 47-week course is that you’ll graduate with an ITEC Certified Diploma which lets you work in 42 countries around the globe. Some of the careers that can arise out of this program include a master stylist, salon owner, and platform artist.
A full professional kit is included when you enroll and you can choose from three scheduling options during the year. This full-time course is 3-days a week from 8:30 am – 6:30 pm, so it will be difficult to attend if you have a full-time day job.
Alternatively, you can choose their Makeup Artistry Certification Course which lasts for 3 weeks. It has three scheduling options, including a Sunday-only class, so if you have work or can’t commit full time, this is a great option to get a cosmetic certification.
In this certification course, you’ll learn about different products and how to apply varying techniques to live models. They’ll teach you the fundamentals of makeup theory, colour, and skincare products so that you can expand your career options to working in varying cosmetic boutiques.
Their newest offering is a Virtual Classroom, which is ideal for those who have a tight schedule but still want to learn the latest techniques in the industry. Whether you’re applying just to improve your skills or you’re a fashion professional wanting to increase your knowledge, this course provides a unique way to learn the craft.
Pros
- ITEC Certified Diploma Course
- Virtual Classroom
- Student Salon & Spa
Cons
- Virtual Classroom course is expensive
- Only 1 diploma course and 2 certificate courses
Customer Reviews
If you need further convincing to enroll at Eveline Charles International Academy, let’s listen to what Hersun Aron, a current student, has to say:
“I am currently a student and will graduate soon. I must Say that I have no doubt for choosing one of the best beauty academy college in Edmonton. I am very grateful for the experiences that I have had and for knowing all the great esthetic teachers and for sharing their knowledge.”
Emma and Leanned, were both customers of the schools’ on-site salon and spa. They share:
“Wonderful experience with esthetics student! Pedicure, eyebrow tint and wax. Will be back for more services.”
5. European Institute of Aesthetics
| SERVICES | Advanced Brow and Lash Technician Program, Advanced Makeup Artistry DL, Advanced Clinical Esthetic Diploma, Browtician Program, Brow and Lash Technician Program, CIDESCO Post Grad Diploma, Full Esthetic Diploma, Lash Technician Program, Nail Technician Program, Individual Certification Courses |
| WEBSITE | https://www.eietrainingcentre.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | Main Campus 6724 75 Street Edmonton AB, Canada T6E 6T9 East Campus 6012 82 Avenue NW (Located inside PROBEAUTY Group) Edmonton AB, Canada T6E 6T9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Main Campus Email: [email protected] East Campus: Phone: 1-800-557-3223 Appointment Bookings: (780) 466-5271 Ext 2 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
The European Institute of Aesthetics has the most comprehensive and diverse course offerings on this list, ranging from a 3D Lips Workshop to a certificate in Waxing. With over 60 individual courses to choose from, anybody interested in learning more about beauty will find something to pique their interest here.
One of their unique courses is a CIDESCO Post Grad Diploma, which is a high standard qualification internationally recognized by beauty and esthetic institutions worldwide. It’s essentially similar to attaining a master’s degree or certification of higher learning in beauty therapy techniques.
The course will cover training in complex subjects such as cellulite reduction treatments and dermatological topics. It will conclude with a CIDESCO exam that will be proctored by an authorized representative from the institution.
However, not everybody can take this prestigious six-day course as it requires a certification or a diploma covering theory and practicums in specific fields. You’ll also need to provide proof of at least 3 years of employment as an esthetician or beauty therapist to get accepted into the program.
If you do have previous training from another school and it’s part of EIA’s accredited list, you may qualify to skip some of their Level 1 certificate courses if you want to take a more advanced course. Otherwise, you’ll need to take the lower-level courses first as a prerequisite, which may be disconcerting for some would-be applicants.
Nevertheless, EIA still offers a multitude of other courses that you can simply choose another program to help you advance your career as a beauty specialist further.
Pros
- Offers a CIDESCO Post Grad Diploma
- 10 Diploma Programs & 63 Certificate Courses
- Wide range of specialties to choose from
Cons
- Some level 2 certificates require their level 1 as a prerequisite even if you have experience from other schools
- Some fees such as cost of kits are listed as TBD
- Some practical training exams require students to bring their own model
Customer Reviews
For some people, the learning atmosphere is vital to their education. EIA receives praise from a former certificate student, Naomi, who says
“The environment was very friendly and informative!”
McKenna, another student, also took a short-course at EIA. She shares:
“Very welcoming employees, great learning environment and overall great experience”
6. Institute Of Nail Technology
SERVICES https://intnails.com/collections/education-registration WEBSITE http://www.intbeautyeducation.com/ ADDRESS 15819, Stony Plain Road, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T5P 3Z7 CONTACT DETAILS By Phone: 780-413-6623
By Fax: 780-413-9566
Education: [email protected]
Sales: [email protected] OPERATING HOURS Monday – Thursday: 9:00AM -4:00PM
Friday 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Institute Of Nail Technology began in 1993 to serve as a Center for Nail and Aesthetics Education.
Through the years, it evolved to become the leading provider of Professional Gel and Acrylic Systems.
When it comes to anything about Nail Enhancement and Aesthetics Education and Product Offerings, we think that they should be one of the places at the top of your head.
What we like about them is that they also offer online education, allowing students to go at their own pace, pause and rewind application techniques, have access to chat rooms and biweekly streaming with their personal instructor.
We like that they have a wide range of courses available and that their costs are also available on their website.
One we’d like to comment on is their website. We find it a little disorganized and messy. Although, of course, that doesn’t affect the quality of their courses.
While they have a description of each course, we think it would also be nice to place a syllabus so that potential students may know what exactly they’ll learn throughout the workshop.
Pros
- Online classes available for certain courses
- Established in 1993
- Leading provider of Nail Enhancement and Aesthetics Education
- Prices available on website
Cons
- Disorganized website
- No syllabus for the workshops
FAQs about the Best Beauty Schools in Edmonton
We’ve now come to the end of our list of the best beauty schools in Edmonton. Hopefully, we were able to give you all the information you need to help you get started in picking the right school.
If you have any suggestions or recommendations, drop us a line, and we’ll make sure to check it out.
Has reading about beauty schools inspired you to pamper yourself now? Don’t worry, you can head on over to our list of the top beauty salons in Edmonton to get your fix.
