Career and School Info for Manicurists and Pedicurists

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Degrees and Schools

Community colleges and vocational schools offer state-licensed associate's degree programs in cosmetology, and additional courses, short-term programs and certificates for manicurists and pedicurists.

Coursework

In addition to cosmetology courses in the care and beautification of hair and skin, nail technician students receive training in subjects such as:

• Proper care of fingernails and toenails, including the skin around them
• How to identify common skin ailments such as fungal infections or in-grown nails
• How to use conditioners and other treatments to keep nails in good condition
• Use of manicure and pedicure tools and equipment, such as salon chairs, cuticle clippers and nail files
• Techniques for using polishes, glues, nail extensions and other embellishments

Online Classes and Programs

Because cosmetology training is in many cases hands-on, associate's degree programs are not well-suited for online learning. However, campus-based programs may offer individual courses that are available online. Any program should be state licensed.

Employment Requirements

All manicurists and pedicurists must be licensed in their state. Although minimum requirements vary from state to state, most aspiring manicurists and pedicurists must:

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be a graduate of a state-licensed cosmetology school
• Pass a state licensing exam in cosmetology
• Pass a separate state licensing exam for manicurists and pedicurists

How to Evaluate Schools

Aspiring manicurists and pedicurists should consider asking the following questions when comparing associate's degree cosmetology programs:

• Program focus - How well does the program prepare graduates for the state licensing exam?
• Accreditation - Is the program licensed by the state?
• Practical experience - Does the school offer a high-quality student salon that is open to the public?
• Financial aid - Are financial aid options such as grants, scholarships and student loans presented clearly and comprehensively?
• Career search - What job placement assistance is offered to program graduates? What percentage of recent graduates have become state licensed?

Manicurist and Pedicurist Job Description

Nail technicians (also called manicurists and pedicurists) are cosmetologists working in the personal appearance industry who are specially trained in the care and aesthetics of their clients' fingernails and toenails. Working in beauty salons, spas and nail salons, they provide services such as manicures, pedicures, nail extensions and polishing. They may also sell nail care products. If they operate their own salon, manicurists and pedicurists are responsible for managerial duties like supervising employees, keeping records, ordering supplies and advertising.