The demand for nail services has exploded in the last decade. Moreover, the type of services is no longer limited to manicures and pedicures but has expanded to include acrylics, massages, overlays, airbrush designs, and treatment of skin and nail disorders. This expansion of services creates new opportunities for creative professionals to earn top dollar while doing something they love.
According to Nails Magazine, patrons spent about $13.5 billion on nail services in 2017. The average visit costs $20.93 for a manicure. The industry revenue is projected to double in the next decade as a range of services are added to the traditional ones. It’s a great time to enroll in a nail technician program to take your place in a sector that will experience phenomenal growth. The program will include preparation for the licensure exam administered by Continental Testing Services. The application for licensure must be submitted to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation within one year of receiving passing scores. The application must be accompanied by the appropriate fee, official exam scores, and official transcripts from the nail technician program. Licenses are renewed biennially.
Rosel School of Cosmetology
The nail technology program offered by Rosel School of Cosmetology trains students in theory and practice to provide nail services in a professional capacity. Students will learn how to perform manicures, pedicures, sculptured nails, and other nail treatments that fall within the scope of practice for licensed technicians. The curriculum will also include training in salon operations, shop management, sanitation, health, safety, ethics, and professionalism.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 3 to 4 months (full-time) 4 to 6 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must be of good moral character
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee of $100
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $2,500 including tuition, books, supplies, and registration.
Website: https://roselschool.org/programs/nail-technology
Address: 307 Golf Mill Center, Niles, Illinois, 60714
Phone: (773) 508-5600
Chicago Nail School
Chicago Nail School provides nail training services to help adults prepare for the State Board Licensing Examinations. Theory and practical instruction in manicuring, pedicuring, fiberglass, gel nails, acrylic nails, and nail art will prepare students for practice as a licensed nail technician. The curriculum will also cover bacteriology, professional ethics, disorders of the nail, personal hygiene and public health, sterilization and disinfection, preparation for the State Board Licensing Exam. Students must complete all the program’s clock hours to take the Board Exam. Various schedules are available to accommodate persons with busy schedules.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 3 to 4 months (full-time) 4 to 6 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age upon enrollment
- Must show completion of the 10th grade or have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Must be of good moral character
- Submit a completed application and the non-refundable fee of $125
- Must be prepared to fulfill the financial obligations of the program
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $1,695 including tuition, books, supplies, and registration.
Website: https://www.nailschoolchicago.com/
Address: 13004 S. Western Avenue, Blue Island, IL 60406
Phone: (708) 597-9999
Email: royan.williams@att.net
A+ Nail School
Chicago’s A+ Nail School’s nail technician program provides the students with basic knowledge of nail technology to take the State Licensing Exam and work as a licensed nail technician. Theory and practical instruction will cover nail art, manicuring, pedicuring, nail disorders, acrylic nails, gel nails, professional ethics, and personal hygiene. A+ Nail School utilizes open enrollment so candidates can enroll at any time.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 2 to 4 months based on the schedule
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age upon enrollment
- Must show completion of the 10th grade or have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Submit a completed application
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $3,300 including tuition, books, nail kit, and enrollment fee. A payment plan is available for all students.
Website: https://aplusnailschool.com/
Address: 1137 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago IL 60657
Phone: (773) 388-2193
Email: aplusnailschoolusa@gmail.com
New Age Spa Institute
The Nail Technology Program at The New Age Spa Institute is led by skilled instructors who will prepare students for the State Licensing Exam. The curriculum covers theory and practical skills in art, science, and business, giving students a wide skillset to succeed in the practice. Areas of study include manicuring, pedicuring, acrylic and gel nail art, nail tips, electric filing, principles of selling, professional ethics, UV gels, principles of selling, marketing, promotions, and building clientele. The class size is limited to 10 persons to deliver excellence in theory and soft. Classes meet Monday through Thursday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age upon enrollment
- Must have completed high school or equivalent
Program cost:
Scholarships are available for eligible students.
Website: https://newagespainstitute.com/programs/nail-technology-program/
Address: 1870 Busse Hwy Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone: 847-759-0900
Email: info@newagespainstitute.com
America Nail College
The nail technology program at American Nail College provides the students with basic knowledge to provide nail care services. The training will cover sanitation and disinfection, bacteria and other infectious agents, manicuring, pedicuring, professional ethics, anatomy and physiology, chemical basics, nail and skin disorders, professional image, acrylic nails, gels, and nail tips. Students must fulfill all the hours required by the state and score 85% or higher on the written and practical exams to graduate from the program.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 3 months
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be 16 years or older
- Provide proof of completing high school
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is $2,400. It covers the cost of fees, supplies, and instruction. Monthly payment plans with easy terms are available for all students.
Website: https://www.ancnail.com/
Address: 1301 South Wolf Road, Prospect Heights, IL 60070
Phone: (847) 537-7777
Email: lumigarnetanc@gmail.com
Roza Nail Technology School
Roza Nail Technology School prepares adults for licensure as a nail technician in Illinois. The program includes theory and practice in the art and science of nail care. Courses covered include manicures, pedicures, gels, acrylic, no-chip, dipping powder, and state nail technician exam preparation. Flexible day and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be 16 years or older
- Must have completed at least two years of high school
- Must have a valid state ID or driver’s license
Program cost:
Contact the school for a current schedule of classes and tuition.
Website: http://www.school4nails.com/
Address: 10024 Skokie Blvd #301b, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 673-0960
Dudley Beauty College
Students enrolled in the nail technician program at Dudley Beauty College will develop skills in skills and knowledge to provide nail services in a variety of settings. The 350-hour program also includes comprehensive preparation for the State Licensing Exam. Areas of study include manicuring and pedicuring, anatomy and physiology, bacteria, skin and nail disorders, hygiene, professional ethics, nail art, acrylics, and much more.
Program overview:
Nail Technology
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be 16 years or older
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- A valid state ID or driver’s license
Program cost:
A flexible payment plan is offered to all students.
Website: https://www.dudleybeautycollegechicago.com/beauty-certifications
Address: 8501 S. Green, Chicago, IL 60620
Phone: (773) 488-5900
Alternate: (773) 488-5418
Fax: (773) 488-5272
Email: dudleychicago@yahoo.com
John Amico School of Hair Design
The John Amico Nail Program exceeds the State’s educational requirements for nail technicians yet offers an accelerated pathway to a successful career. Students will master skills, theory, science, creativity, and practice in nail enhancement, nail art, and sanitation. They will be prepared to use their understanding of the science of hand and foot beauty to be ambassadors of the John Amico System to create unique experiences for their client. Successful completion of the program requires satisfactory progress in the written and practical work (75% or above), attendance of over 67% of classes, and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or above. Graduates will be prepared to take State of Illinois Exam to become a licensed nail technician.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be 16 years or older
- Attend an interview at the school
- File an application for admission
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Provide a valid driver’s license (or state ID) and social security card
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $4,985. It includes the registration fee, books, equipment, supplies, and taxes.
Website: https://www.johnamicoschoolofhairdesign.com/nails/
Address: 15301 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Forest IL 60452
Phone: 708-687-7800
Email: info@johnamicoschoolofhairdesign.com
Tricoci University
Tricoci University’s Nail Technology/Manicuring Program covers manicures, pedicures, and sculpture-related services to prepare students for a career in nail care. Students will benefit from learning in a modern facility equipped with the best equipment and from experienced instructors. A significant portion of the material will be delivered online through videos, demonstrations, lectures, presentations, and seminars. Practical and written exams will assess students’ understanding of the material. The Illinois curriculum will cover Basic Training, Related Concepts, Practices and Procedures, and Business Practices. Graduates will have the confidence to take and pass the Illinois licensing exam for nail technicians.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 4 months part-time
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Meet with an Admissions Advisor at Tricoci University for an interview and campus tour
- Submit a completed application for enrollment
- Complete and sign an Enrollment Agreement
- Meet the age requirement of 16 years or older
- Must have successfully completed a high school education or equivalent
- Must be able to speak, read, and write in English
Program cost:
Tuition and fees will cost approximately $6,900.
Website: https://www.tricociuniversity.edu/
Address: 6458 N Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60626
Phone: 773-764-6458
Trenz Beauty Academy
The Nail Technology program at Trenz Beauty Academy is designed to prepare students for state licensure and practice as a licensed nail technician. The 350-clock hour program covers manicures, pedicures, gel nails, exotic nail art, nail disorders, ethics, business skills, and much more. Full-time and part-time schedules are available. Full-time classes meet Wednesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and part-time classes meet Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or Wednesday through Friday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 14 weeks full-time and 20 weeks part-time
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Meet the age requirement of 16 years or older
- Must provide valid and current driver’s license or state ID
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Submit a completed application
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $1,800. It includes registration, books, basic tool kit, nail tuition, and uniform.
Website: http://www.trenzbeautyacademy.com/our-programs/
Address: 2605 West 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60652
Phone: 773-737-7400
Email: trenzclasses@gmail.com
Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy
Students enrolled in the Nail Technology program at Ms. Robert Beauty Academy must completed the required hours (350 hours) to graduate from the program. Instruction will cover the history of nail care, professional ethics, sterilization and disinfection, bacteriology, body systems, sculpting procedures, machines and apparatus used in nail technology, manicures, pedicures, hand, arm and foot massage, management, and OSHA standards.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 14.5 weeks full-time 22 weeks part-time
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend an enrollment appointment
- Submit a copy of high school diploma or GED
- Submit a copy of state ID and driver’s license
- Submit a completed application for enrollment and pay the $100 enrollment fee
- Pay the minimum down payment for the kit ($300)
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $5,000. It includes the registration fee, tuition, kits, books, and uniforms.
Website: https://www.msroberts-academy.com/nail-technology/
Address: 552 Mannheim Rd. Suite A, Hillside, IL 60162
Phone: (708) 649 9088
Email: info@msroberts-academy.com
Elle International Beauty Academy
The nail technology course at Elle International Beauty Academy prepares adults for a career in the field of nail technology. Students will be required to complete 350 hours of theory and intensive practice to maintain a positive attitude and self-confidence in nail care and perform basic, intermediate, and advanced skills in manicuring, pedicuring, and various nail extension procedures. Students will also demonstrate proper grooming and effective communication skills, apply theory and technical skills to make sound decisions, and take and pass the Nail Technology Exam for licensing as a nail technician. Instructors will use written evaluation, performance evaluation, and assigned projects to assess students’ knowledge of the subject and deliver content using lectures, demonstrations, reading assignments, and practical hands-on activities. An average course grade of 75% and a final written and practical exam grade of 85% are required for graduation from the program.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 9 weeks full-time 18 weeks part-time
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Provide a valid form of ID
- Submit a completed application and registration fee
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $1,800. It includes the registration fee, tuition, and equipment.
Website: http://ellebeautyacademy.com/student-info/class-program-details/
Address: 2113B S. China Place, Chicago IL 60616
Phone: (312) 225-0988
Email: contact@ellebeautyacademy.com
Your School of Beauty
The nail technician program offered by Your School of Beauty covers the Fundamentals and Art of Natural Nail Care, Nail Enhancements, and business practices. Graduates will be eligible to take the State of Illinois Nail Exam to become a licensed nail technician. Full-time and part-time schedules are offered to accommodate busy students.
Program overview:
Nail Technology Program
Duration: 3 months full-time
Contact hours: 350
Prerequisites:
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Provide a valid form of ID
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $3,500 – books and registration included. A payment plan is available for all students.
Website: https://yourschoolofbeauty.com/available-courses
Address: 116 East Pershing Road Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: 773-538-4886