Esthiology (750 Hours)

If you’re passionate about skin care and want to convert that passion into a thriving career, Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville’s comprehensive Esthiology (esthetician) program covers what you need to know to jumpstart your career.

At our Nashville campus, we dive into skincare fundamentals such as facials, hair removal methods, and makeup application — all while learning signature Aveda products and techniques. When graduation rolls around, our dedicated students have the knowledge and skills needed to secure licensure and enter the workforce as the next wave of skincare professionals.

The Esthiology program at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute – Nashville introduces the knowledge and skills you need for Tennessee’s esthetician licensing exam while also providing a sturdy foundation for your career.

Our program is designed to accommodate the needs of every type of learner while prioritizing the valuable hands-on experiences that act as the cornerstone of the Aveda educational experience.

Students start with 300 hours of theory introduction to the field, covering vital topics such as relevant state law, nutrition, aging factors, and anatomy and physiology. Our esthetics students dedicate 450 hours to the tangible skills of the job. You’ll learn and practice a huge array of techniques, from facial massage and masks to skin analysis and even color psychology.

The curriculum provides skin care training with an emphasis on using pure plant and plant essences in treatment. The objective of this program is to prepare students for the state licensing examination in esthetics. Upon completion, students will have the skills to seek employment as a skin care specialist with the knowledge of Aveda products and spa techniques.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville emphasizes hands-on training, so students feel ready for work in a fast-paced salon or spa upon graduation. All students have the opportunity to practice on guests under the direct supervision of our instructors. Our curriculum is personalized, so each student receives an education that’s unique to them and that enhances their creative skills.

Our esthetics students also have high praise for this campus’ programs. “I thoroughly enjoyed the accelerated program of Esthiology at Aveda Arts Institute in Nashville, Tennessee,” a former student wrote. “I especially enjoyed working in the spa for my education the last three months of my schooling.”

Aveda Arts Nashville delivers exceptional student outcomes, including a 99.5% state board licensure pass rate, a 86.4% graduation rate, and strong placement rate (77%) after graduation.*

To enroll in the Esthiology program at our Nashville campus, you must meet the following requirements:

Age: 16 years old

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Other Requirements: Pay a non-refundable $50 application fee and submit a government-issued photo ID, social security card, and proof of citizenship or lawful status.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute is committed to ensuring a safe educational environment and reserves the right to deny admission to applicants with a criminal record. Transfer hours are only accepted from schools within the Aveda Institute network.

Esthiology. A-side: 30 hours per week, Monday – Thursday 9am – 5:30pm (1-hour lunch). B-side: 30 hours per week, Wednesday – Saturday 9am – 5:30pm (1-hour lunch).

Upcoming start dates: November 10, 2026.

Tuition: $12,550. Kit fee: $2,100 (kit fees are mandatory and may not be pro-rated; students may not opt out of kit fees). Application fee: $50 (nonrefundable; not eligible for VA funding).

Total of listed charges: $14,700.

Required textbooks are included in the kit cost, but students can choose to purchase their textbooks from another source, in which case the kit fee is reduced by the applicable cost.

Payment plans: students can pay in installments through an interest-free monthly payment plan; no interest is charged if the total is paid off before graduation.

Financial aid is available for those students that meet the necessary requirements. Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes participate in the Pell Grant Program and the Federal Direct Loan Program. Complete the FAFSA at fafsa.gov using federal school code 026009.

Veterans’ benefits are not available in all institute locations, and only to those who qualify.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute graduates who enroll in another program receive a 15% discount off the published tuition rate.

Net Price Calculator: https://avedaarts.edu/wp-content/themes/avedaarts/net-price-calculators/npcalc-nashville.htm

Upon completion, students will have the skills to seek employment as a skin care specialist; job opportunities are available in the salon, medical and retail industries as Esthetician and Makeup Artist.

Graduation, placement and licensure (2024 Annual Report to NACCAS, as published in the 2026-27 catalog — Nashville, Esthiology): graduation 93.20%, placement 63.03%, licensure 100.00%.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes do not guarantee employment to students; however, the schools assist students in finding employment, hold annual job fairs, and can assist with out-of-state placement subject to licensing transfer.

Our Aveda campus is a beautifully restored car dealership off I-65 in picturesque Franklin, across the street from Cool Springs Galleria Mall. It’s an easy commute from Nashville as well as from nearby towns of Brentwood, Spring Hill, Columbia, Smyrna, and Murfreesboro.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville is near lots of shopping, a variety of dining options from chain (Chili’s) to independent (The Honeysuckle), and outdoor activities. With grocery stores, banks, and retail shops within easy distance, you can readily weave your daily life into your new beauty school routine.

Music City draws artists and passionate individuals to its vibrant nightlife, cuisine, and creative energy, and Aveda Arts Nashville in nearby Franklin is a standout among beauty schools. With a state-of-the-art green facility and personalized curriculum, the Institute buzzes with fresh talent and youthful spirit.