Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an Esthetician?

Estheticians are practitioners of the branch of cosmetology that specialize in skin care. An esthetician needs a broad knowledge base to treat various skin types. He / She must also understand product usage, the range of equipment found in the treatment rooms such as galvanic current, high frequency, microdermabrasion, LED (light) Therapy, contraindications to products and treatment usage, and what treatments to recommend. It encompasses knowledge of skillful massage techniques to help improve skin functions as well as providing a relaxing experience for the client.

2. How do I become an Esthetician?
To become an Esthetician you must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours of training. The training includes a basic knowledge of the skin, disorders and diseases, infection control, product ingredients, and anatomy.

3. Is your school licensed?
Our school is licensed to operate by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. We have been trading since 2012 as The Institute of Epidermal Cell Therapy. Our Esthetics School License Number is 1267000053.

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Bureau of Labor Statistics
4. What kinds of jobs are available to Estheticians?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics, Estheticians and skin care specialists are one of the fastest growing industries in the nation. The types of jobs range from working at a Spa, providing assistance to Dermatologist’s and other medical doctors, Medi Spas, Spa Owner, Representative for a Professional Product line, Educator, and State Board Representatives.
The reputation of our institute speaks for itself. Due to our community connection as well as our industry network our students are highly sought after. Beyond our comprehensive in class training we prepare our students for the job market. By staying abreast of the career avenues and multitude of opportunity in our industry we are able to offer our students resources that will assist in their search for employment. We are committed to helping our students help themselves in finding employment immediately upon graduation.

Self-employment is a common vocational objective for estheticians and master estheticians.

Bureau of Labor Statistics

How Much Does an Esthetician and Skincare Specialist Make?

Medical Aesthetics Market To Reach USD 48.6 Billion By 2032

Private Equity and Growth Capital: Medical Aesthetics’ New Reality

Medical Aesthetics Market worth $25.9 billion

Why the medical aesthetics industry is crisis-proof and growing

5. Why should I train at IECT?
The Institute of Epidermal Cell Therapy provides a professional education environment and practical, hands-on experience through our licensed Esthetics Spa. Our business is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and have received an A+ rating with them. For more information see our BBB review. We keep our class sizes and tuition low. We also provide great flexibility to students through our blended learning model which combines traditional classroom and online learning methods.

6. What is the cost to obtain a license with DPOR?

DPOR Cosmetology Licensing Fees

VA State Board Examination Fee: $86 (Esthetics and Master Esthetics)
Theory Examination: $86 (Esthetics and Master Esthetics)

DPOR License Application fee: $90

7. How long is your program?

The Esthetics and Master Esthetics Programs are completed within 25 weeks.

8. What is your class schedule?

Varies depending on class schedule.

9. What is the tuition cost?

Esthetics Classroom Method $18,625
Master Esthetics Classroom Method $18,725
Esthetics Online Blending Method $15,800
Master Esthetics Online Blending Method $15,800
Esthetics Instructor $15, 000

10. How do I apply for the GI Bill Benefits to attend Institute of Epidermal Cell Therapy?

Please go to the website link below and apply online for a certificate of eligibility. Once you received your certificate of eligibility then bring this certificate with you, to our Academic consultation tour.
The link to our application is here: How To Apply For The GI Bill And Related Benefits | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)

11. What are your payment options?

The Esthetics Program without Equipment Payment Plan is designed to make the program more accessible to students by allowing them to pay in installments. The total cost of the program is $15425, which can be paid in full over a period of 20 weeks. It is important to note that the payment plan requires an initial advance payment to be made before the plan can be set up. This helps with financial planning and ensures that payments are always covered. Failure to make the advance payment may result in additional fees or the cancellation of the payment plan.

Monthly payment one week must be paid in advance. This means that your initial payment will need to be $3855 ($3084 for the first month plus $771 for the following week). After that, your monthly payment will be $3084.

Bi-Weekly payment two weeks must be paid in advance. This means that your initial payment will need to be $3084 ($1542 for the first two weeks plus $1542 for the following week). After that, your bi-weekly payment will be $1542.

Weekly payment three weeks must be paid in advance. This means that your initial payment will need to be $3084 ($2313.75 for the first weeks plus $771.25 for the following week). After that, your weekly payment will be $771.25

12. Do you accept grants or federal loans?

At this time, we do not accept Pell Grants or Federal Student Loans. However, we are approved as a vendor for Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E). In addition, we offer various scholarships and financial assistance opportunities for students who qualify. Our goal is to provide access to quality education for all, regardless of financial circumstances. If you are interested in applying for financial assistance, please visit our website or contact our admissions office for more information.