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.

View License

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. How much does it cost?

Tuition for Esthetics and Master Esthetics programs is $14,235 each, but there is a promotional price available of $12,235 for our online Blended learning method.

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?

We accept payments in the following installments:

Monthly $1,800.00
Bi-monthly $900.00
Weekly $450.00

12. Do you accept grants or federal loans?

The Institute of Epidermal Cell Therapy does not have a federal I.D. number; therefore, we cannot accept Pell Grants or Federal Student Loans.