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2023-2024 Academic Calendar

Esthetician Certificate


Location(s): ​Dawson Creek

This is an approximately 32-week certificate program covering esthetics and spa therapy. It includes theory, infection control and hands-on training in facials, body massage, body treatments, aromatherapy, makeup artistry, waxing, lash lifting and tinting, brow tinting, manicures, pedicures, and gel polish and overlays.

Students will use the basic principles of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry to support the applied learning required by the program. Electrotherapy and sanitation procedures will be discussed and integrated throughout their studies.

Students will also gain experience while performing services in a fully functioning on-site spa under the supervision of the esthetics instructor. They will learn the necessary business practices and teamwork skills needed for the profession while providing real-time practical client care.

In addition, the program will introduce students to the required business skills to run a salon or spa, explore career planning, and produce a professional quality portfolio to showcase their skills.

The program will prepare students to write the Beauty Council Western Canada licensing examinations (theory and practical) at the end of their training. The cost of this exam is not included in program fees.

This Program has a reading week which typically occurs during the last week of February each year. 

Career Prospects

The Esthetics industry offers career opportunities in areas such as, spa therapy, nail technician, demonstrator, sales representatives, salon proprietor, makeup artist, esthetician on a cruise ship, medical spa assistant, and spa management, among other opportunities. Students who complete this program will be eligible to take the Beauty Council licensing examination. This exam represents the industry’s highest standard.

Intakes


LocationStartingType
Dawson Creek (South Peace Campus)SeptemberCohort(opens in a new tab)  

Length


934 hours; approximately 36 weeks long.

Estimated Program Fees


Program fee type: Trades/Apprenticeship

Costs indicated are estimates for a full-time course load.

Book, instruments, supplies, uniforms/clothing and third-party fees are additional.

Domestic Fees

 TuitionStudent FeesInstruction-related
Fees (includes GST)
Total
Year 1$ 3,194.28$ 160.46$ 2,456.53$ 5,811.27

International Fees

 TuitionStudent FeesInstruction-related
Fees (includes GST)
International
Medical Insurance
Total
Year 1$ 11,478.86$ 160.46$ 2,456.53$ 828.00$ 14,923.85

Still have questions?


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Admission Requirements


Complete either A, B, C, or D:

A. English and Math


English Requirement

One of the following:

  • BC Language Arts 10 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
  • BC Language Arts 11 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
  • BC Language Arts 12 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
  • ENGL 030(opens in a new tab) or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
  • IELTS score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 or equivalent English placement test and score.

Math Requirement

One of the following:

  • BC Math 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
  • BC Math 11 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
  • BC Math 12 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
  • MATH 030(opens in a new tab) or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.

Science Requirement

One of the following:

  • BC Science 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
  • SCIE 030(opens in a new tab) with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent

B. ESTR 037


Complete:

C. Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT)


All of:

  • Reading Comprehension: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  • Number Operations: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  • Problem Solving: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  • Science: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher

Based on the results of the assessment(s), applicants may be required to participate in an assessment interview to determine admissibility. Interviews may be conducted virtually if necessary.

D. POWER


Complete:

Post-Admission Requirements


NLC’s South Peace campus is connected to the Dawson Creek High School – South Peace campus.  Therefore Criminal Records Review Act requires that all NLC students over the age of 19 before classes begin must submit:

  • A clearance letter from the Criminal Records Review Program (CRRP), for a Schedule “B” Criminal Record Check (CRC), WORKS WITH Children or WORKS WITH Children and Vulnerable Adults before beginning the program. Failure to do so and may result in program withdrawal. For information and regulations, see Criminal Records Checks(opens in a new tab) .

Important Notes


  1. The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit Student Aid BC(opens in a new tab) to apply for financial assistance online.  Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
  2. A basic equipment kit for esthetics is provided to each student at the beginning of the program. This kits include tools necessary for the program.  Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements(opens in a new tab).
  3. The program is affiliated with School Districts 59, 60, and 81.

Program Requirements


Residency Requirement100% of each level must be completed at Northern Lights College or by approval of the Dean
Minimum Grade Requirements70% minimum in all courses

Credential


Certificate in Esthetics