The Institute of Beauty and Wellness

Esthiology Program at Aveda Institute Chicago

Learn the science of skin and the art of touch. You'll study anatomy, skin analysis, facials, waxing, makeup artistry, and advanced treatments using Aveda's plant-powered products, then practice all of it on the clinic floor.

750 clock hours · Aveda Institute Chicago

Esthiology student applying a facial masque to a client
Hands-On
Clinic Floor Training
Aveda
Product Training
Chicago
Campus Location
ULTRACEUTICALS
COSMECEUTICALS TRAINING

Credential

Esthiology Certificate

Program Length

750 clock hours

Schedule

Full-time or 3-Day

Next Start

NOVEMBER 17, 2026

Campus

Chicago

Course Overview

A complete, hands-on education in Esthiology

Learn the science of skin and the art of touch. You'll study anatomy, skin analysis, facials, waxing, makeup artistry, and advanced treatments using Aveda's plant-powered products, then practice all of it on the clinic floor.

You'll learn the Aveda way at our Chicago campus: pure, plant-based products and a philosophy rooted in wellness and environmental responsibility. From the first day on the clinic floor, you'll gain real experience with real guests, guided by educators who've worked in the industry.

Our Chicago Esthiology program is 750 clock hours of theory and hands-on clinic practice, and it prepares you to sit for the Illinois state licensing exam.

Esthiology student performing a back treatment under a magnifying lamp in the Chicago clinic

By the Numbers

Program at a Glance

750
Program Hours
94.74%
GRADUATION RATE*
90.91%
LICENSURE RATE*
712
Hands-On Practice Hours
Students working on the clinic floor

Curriculum

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

A structured path from core theory to advanced, guest-ready technique.

Infection control, anatomy of the skin, product chemistry, and the fundamentals of skin analysis, the knowledge base your state board exam is built on.

Classic and customized facials, extractions, masks, and treatment protocols using Aveda and clinical skincare lines.

Full-body waxing, brow shaping, and hair-removal safety and technique for a range of skin types.

Makeup application, lash and brow services, and advanced skincare technologies that expand your service menu.

Retail and social-media marketing, building a client book, interview prep, and state-board readiness.
Download Full Course Catalog

A Day in the Life

See yourself Here

Student presenting an Aveda professional massage masque and facial rollerClose-up of a guest receiving a facial mask treatment

From morning theory to the clinic floor, Esthiology students at our Chicago campus spend their days doing real beauty work with real guests.

Skin, Backed by Science 

TRAIN ON CLINICAL SKINCARE

From Aveda's botanical rituals to Ultraceuticals' results-driven actives and Observ 320 skin imaging, you'll learn to read skin and build treatment plans that work.  

Core

Aveda

Pure, plant-based, vegan skin and body care rooted in Aveda's wellness philosophy, woven through every phase of your training.

TECHNOLOGY

Observ 320

The Observ 320 by Sylton is a skin visualization tool and analysis device designed for aesthetic practitioners, spas, and skincare professionals. It captures full-face images in just 4 seconds using patented LED technology and integrates with an iPad app to guide interactive client consultations.

Professional

ESA Beauty

Professional makeup line students use to deepen their knowledge of wedding, special-event, editorial, and everyday makeup application.

Tuition, Kit & Financial Aid

A clear picture of your Investment

Program Tuition

Request a personalized cost breakdown

Total program cost including required fees, tailored to your schedule and aid eligibility.

  • Federal financial aid available to those who qualify
  • Scholarships & grants
  • Monthly payment plans
  • 1-on-1 support from our financial aid team
Talk to Financial Aid

Your Student Kit

Included

Professional tools and products you'll use in class and keep for your career.

  • Pivot Point Salon Fundamentals digital bundle
  • Aveda Botanical Kinetics skincare regimen
  • Deep cleansing and hydrating masques with brushes
  • Ultraceuticals professional treatment set
  • Makeup brush set, palette, and lashes
  • Dermaplaning handle, gua sha, facial roller, and roller bag
Aveda Advanced Botanical Kinetics skincare collection

Student Success

HEAR FROM OUR FUTURE PROFESSIONALS

“I liked Aveda's high graduation rate, which gave me peace of mind and made me feel I'd be successful at this school. Overall, Aveda offers a positive professional environment that sets you up for success and helps you reach your goals, which is something I strive for.”
Elizabeth K. • Cosmetology
“Since I started at Aveda, I've noticed positive growth in myself and my mindset as I learn about the art of hair. I enjoy the positive and supportive atmosphere and feel like I belong for once in my life.”
Lunar W. • Cosmetology
“The teachers are all wonderful people!”
Prosper V. • Massage Therapy

Upcoming Start Dates

Find the start that Fits Your Life

Start Date

NOVEMBER 17

2026

Schedule

Day · Full-time22 weeks
  • Tue-Fri 8:30am-4pm
  • Sat 9am-4pm

Application Deadline

Rolling, apply early

Apply

Start Date

JANUARY 4

2027

Schedule

Evening · Part-time38 weeks
  • Mon-Thurs 4:30pm-9:30pm

Application Deadline

Rolling, apply early

Apply

Start Date

FEBRUARY 8

2027

Schedule

Evening · Part-time38 weeks
  • Mon-Thurs 4:30pm-9:30pm

Application Deadline

Rolling, apply early

Apply

Contact admissions for exact upcoming cohort dates and application deadlines.

FAQ

Frequently asked Questions

The program is 750 clock hours, offered on full-time and 3-Day schedules. Completion time depends on the schedule you choose, and our admissions team will map out your exact timeline.

You'll earn a Esthiology Certificate and be prepared to sit for the Illinois state licensing exam to become a licensed esthetician.

Contact our admissions team for current tuition and a personalized cost breakdown. Federal financial aid is available to those who qualify, along with scholarships and monthly payment plans.

No experience is required, just a passion for beauty and wellness and a willingness to learn. Our admissions team will guide you through the requirements and enrollment steps.

You'll train primarily with Aveda's plant-based, vegan professional products, plus other professional lines you'll see in the field, Ultraceuticals skincare, OPI nail products, keratin and smoothing treatments, and more. Most importantly, you learn the technique and product chemistry behind them, so your education applies to any product line you work with after graduation.

The program covers the theory and hands-on technique of esthiology and prepares you to sit for the Illinois state licensing exam.

We offer multiple start dates throughout the year on both full-time and 3-Day schedules. See the start-date table above or request info for the next available cohort.

We're at 2828 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657, in Lakeview on Clark Street. All Esthiology classes and clinic floor hours happen right here at the Aveda Institute Chicago. Call (773) 883-1560 or schedule a tour.

Are You Ready?

Start your tomorrow today at the Aveda Institute Chicago.

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