Aesthetics
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
AESTHETICS
PROGRAM LENGTH: 2 years
GRADES: 10-12
The Aesthetics pathway is for students who want to specialize in skincare and work toward an Arizona state aesthetics (esthetician) license. It’s a two-year program with a lighter daily time requirement than hairstyling, while still meeting state-aligned training hours.
By the end of the program, students will learn skills in:
- Sanitation, safety, and state-aligned procedures
- Skin analysis and client consultation
- Facials and skincare regimens
- Pore cleansing and basic treatment planning
- Waxing and hair removal services (as trained/allowed)
- Brow shaping and lash-related services (as trained/allowed)
- Professional habits: client care, timing, cleanliness, and service consistency
Course Pathway Map
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of skincare and aesthetic services. Students learn a variety of techniques including facials, skin analysis, pore cleansing, and personalized skincare regimens.
Additional topics include waxing, eyebrow shaping, lash tinting, and aromatherapy techniques. Instruction includes both classroom learning and practical lab experiences.
Students in this course begin working toward qualification for the Arizona Aesthetician License.
This advanced course builds on the foundation of Aesthetics I and prepares students to meet the competencies required by the Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board for licensure.
Students continue developing advanced skills in skincare, facials, and eyelash extensions, while reinforcing safety, sanitation, and professional practices. Instruction includes both classroom and hands-on lab experiences.
Students continue working toward qualification to take the Arizona Aesthetician License exam.
In this capstone course, students design and complete a comprehensive project using project management fundamentals. Students conduct research on a chosen topic and produce a final report, portfolio, or presentation that demonstrates mastery of aesthetic and hairstyling concepts.
This course emphasizes professional skill application, innovation, and preparation for real-world cosmetology or aesthetician work.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding course offerings, requirements, and descriptions, please refer to the official course catalog.
Certificates & Licenses
Students work toward qualifying for the Arizona Barbering Board of Cosmetology as an Aesthetician. Throughout the two-year program, students will work toward testing for and obtaining the Arizona Aesthetics License. Licensure requires meeting state requirements and passing the required exams.
| Certificate Name | Class / Year Obtained | Type | Purpose / Eligibility | Information Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Aesthetician License | Aesthetics II | State Licensing Exam | Required for professional licensure as an aesthetician in Arizona | Theory, state laws, sanitation, safety, and basic aesthetic procedures |
Career, Salary, and Growth Opportunities
Entry
Median
Experienced
NATIONAL ANNUAL SALARY
2020
2022
2024
AZ MEDIAN SALARY GROWTH
2024
2034
PROJECTED JOB OUTLOOK
Aesthetics and skincare careers offer students opportunities to build skills that translate directly into client‑focused work in salons, spas, and clinical settings. Roles such as esthetician, medical esthetician, and lash/brow specialist provide salaries ranging from about $30,000 to $80,000, with the U.S median pay around $41,000 per year and a higher median salary in Arizona around $46,500. Experienced professionals often earning higher wages depending on specialization and setting.
National data shows skincare specialists earning a median of about $19.98 per hour, and employment for this field is projected to grow about 7 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, with roughly 14,500 openings expected each year. For students who enjoy client interaction, and helping others look and feel their best, the aesthetics program provides a dependable pathway to meaningful, in‑demand careers.
*Statistics sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Arizona workforce projections.
Our Facilities
Students train in a professional esthetics lab designed to simulate a real spa environment. The space allows real-world practice with skincare treatments, facial services, and client care using industry-standard equipment and professional products.
Our facilities feature:
Student workstations with steamers and professional lighting
Dermaplane tools for advanced exfoliation training
Hot stone equipment for facial and relaxation treatments
High-frequency devices for skincare therapy applications
Waxing supplies for hair removal services
Professional-grade skincare products from Skin Script
This setup provides students with real-world experience performing esthetic services in a salon-style learning environment.
Pathfinder Salon
Our student-run Pathfinder Salon provides services from facials to waxing and styling. Students in the Aesthetics Pathway gain experience in a professional, client-focused environment under the guidance of licensed educators and industry professionals. The salon helps students earn the required service hours for their licenses while developing the confidence and skills needed for modern salon work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Aesthetics focuses on skincare services (facials, skin analysis, waxing, and related treatments). Hairstyling focuses on hair cutting, styling, coloring, and hair services.
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This pathway requires at least three class periods per day for two years.
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The course content includes lash-related services as part of training; the exact services practiced depend on program scope and state guidelines.
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Strong sanitation habits, a calm and professional presence with clients, attention to detail, and the willingness to practice techniques repeatedly until they’re consistent.
Our Industry Partners
We collaborate with leading industry professionals to ensure our students gain real-world experience, leading to direct pathways into high-demand careers. We are proud to work alongside organizations that invest in the future of our students.
