Academic Catalogs

Esthetician, Certificate of Achievement

Banner Code: 2_CN_ESTH

Control Number: 19676

Financial Aid Eligible


The Esthetics Program consists of one-semester with a minimum of 600 hours of training to prepare the student for a career in skin care. The student will learn bone structure, chemistry of products, skin analysis, use of packs and masks, electric modalities, corrected makeup, and correct use of products. Upon completion, the student is eligible to take the California State Board examination to become a Licensed Esthetician. Students in this program must maintain a minimum grade of C (2.0 GPA) in all courses in order to advance to the next level in the program. In addition to the 600 hours, the student will include general education requirements to receive the Associate in Arts degree. The program offers a full-time, day-only program. Students attend classes Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Student attendance is mandatory. English-speaking and comprehension skills are critical to success as well as safety in this program. Students with inadequate English proficiency may be dropped from the program until adequate proficiency is achieved. The Cosmetology Department has established standards of conduct and personal grooming. Additionally, there are attendance policies that must be adhered to by all students enrolling in the program. For further information regarding requirements, contact the Cosmetology Office. State law requires that students be at least seventeen years of age and have a valid social security number or an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) when applying for the California State Board examination.

Material Costs

The Cosmetology Department Office will provide information about the required uniform, shoes and material fee which covers the cost of the esthetician kit. Kits must be purchased with cash, money order or cashier check only. No credit cards or personal checks accepted.

Potential careers students may enter upon completion are as follows:

  • Esthetician
  • salon or day spa esthetician
  • medical aesthetician
  • makeup artistry
  • camouflage therapy
  • manufacturer’s representative
  • salesperson or sales manager
  • cosmetics buyer
  • esthetics writer or beauty editor
  • travel industry (cruise ships)
  • educator
  • skin care company owner
  • product development
  • mobile esthetician
  • state licensing inspector or examiner
  • and State Board member

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Evaluate and assess the skin care regime for the client.
  2. Obtain basic knowledge and information to pass the State Board Examination thru continued assessment by instructors, by completing State Board assignments and procedures in the prescribed time and passing with a 75% or greater.
  3. Analyze, evaluate and demonstrate skills necessary for a successful career as an Esthetician, including proper hygiene and good grooming, professional ethics, customer relations and general salon management practices.

Review Graduation Requirements.

Course Title Units
Required Courses
COSM G071Esthetics - Level 110.5
COSM G072Esthetics - Level 210.5
Total Units21

Recommended Program Sequence

These sequences are general maps for students to finish all requirements for the Certificate. There may be advisories or time requirements that students may want to consider before following these maps. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor for alternate sequencing.

Year 1:

Course Title Units
Semester 1
COSM G071Esthetics - Level 110.5
COSM G072Esthetics - Level 210.5
Units21