Best Esthetician Schools In Berkeley, California 2025

By BestEstheticianSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Esthetician Schools In Berkeley, California

Esthetician programs are designed for individuals who are passionate about skincare and beauty treatments. As an esthetician, you will learn about skin analysis, facial treatments, makeup application, and various hair removal methods, equipping you with the skills to enhance the appearance and health of your clients’ skin. Berkeley, California, is an ideal place to pursue these programs due to its vibrant beauty industry, progressive culture, and diverse community.

The city is home to a mix of holistic spas, high-end salons, and emerging beauty startups, providing ample opportunities for hands-on experience. Additionally, Berkeley’s close proximity to San Francisco broadens networking potential and industry connections. With a focus on integrating wellness and beauty, the esthetician programs available in Berkeley offer modern training techniques and advanced technologies that prepare students for a successful career in the beauty sector.

Best Esthetician Schools Near Berkeley, California

Below are the top ranked esthetician schools in the surrounding areas of Berkeley, California

Address: 3300 College Dr, San Bruno,California, San Mateo County, 94066-1698
In-State Tuition: $1,288
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,340
Full-time Enrollment: 9,428
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Esthetician Degree Programs:
Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist
Esthetician Degrees: Certificate
Online Esthetician Degrees Offered: None

Common Admission Requirements For Esthetician SchoolsIn Berkeley, California

Enrolling in an esthetician program in Berkeley typically requires meeting certain criteria:

  • Age and Education: Applicants must usually be at least 17 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Some schools may recommend or require completion of introductory courses in anatomy, physiology, or chemistry prior to admission.

  • Certification Expectations: While some schools may not require licensing prior to entry, state licensure is necessary upon completion of the program. This often involves completing a set number of hours (usually 600) in training and passing a state examination.

  • Application Materials: Students may need to submit an application form, proof of high school graduation, transcripts, and possibly a personal statement.

  • Interviews and Portfolios: Some schools may require an interview or a portfolio showcasing any prior experience or interest in the beauty industry.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Esthetician Schools In Berkeley, California

The cost of esthetician programs in Berkeley can vary based on the institution and program length. Here’s an overview:

  • Tuition Ranges: Typically, tuition for esthetician programs ranges from $6,000 to $10,000 depending on the school and course offerings.

  • Additional Costs: Expect to budget for kits, uniforms, textbooks, and equipment, which can total an additional $1,000 to $2,000.

  • Financial Aid Options: Students can explore various financial aid opportunities:

    • Federal Financial Aid: Completing the FAFSA may qualify students for federal grants and student loans.
    • State Aid: California students can apply for state grants and scholarships aimed at vocational education.
    • Institutional Scholarships: Many schools offer their scholarships based on merit or financial need.
    • Payment Plans: Some institutions provide payment plans to spread tuition costs across several months.
Esthetician Salary in California
Annual Median: $37,170
Hourly Median: $17.87
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$33,050
25th$35,030
Median$37,170
75th$46,820
90th$64,000

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Esthetician Schools In Berkeley, California

  1. What is the duration of esthetician programs in Berkeley?

    • Programs typically last around 6 to 12 months, depending on the school and whether students attend full-time or part-time.
  2. Is licensure required to work as an esthetician in California?

    • Yes, passing the state exam and obtaining a license from the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology is mandatory.
  3. Can I take online classes for esthetician training?

    • Some theoretical components may be available online, but practical training must be conducted in-person.
  4. Are there job placements after completing the program?

    • Many schools have job placement services to assist graduates in finding employment in the beauty industry.
  5. What is included in an esthetician training program?

    • Programs typically include courses in skincare theory, makeup application, sanitation practices, and hands-on treatments.
  6. Do I need prior experience in beauty to apply?

    • No prior experience is required, but a genuine interest in skincare and beauty is beneficial.
  7. What are the typical working hours for estheticians?

    • Estheticians often work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, depending on their employment setting.
  8. Can I specialize in a specific area of esthetics after my training?

    • Yes, many estheticians choose to specialize in areas such as makeup artistry, waxing, or advanced skincare treatments.
  9. How do I choose the right esthetician school in Berkeley?

    • Evaluate schools based on accreditation, curriculum, faculty qualifications, facilities, and student reviews.
  10. What equipment will I need during my training?

    • Most schools provide students with necessary kits, but you may also need to purchase basic tools and supplies, such as skincare products and applicators.