Nail Technician is a Certificate program offered by The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics in Corpus Christi, TX. The program takes 600 clock hours — about 18 weeks full time or 28 weeks part time to complete, with a total tuition of $7,200.
Program Overview
The Nail Technician Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional development necessary to launch a successful career in the nail care industry. Aligned with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) standards, this comprehensive program combines theory-based instruction with extensive hands-on training in a salon-like environment.
Students will gain expertise in manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, nail art, sanitation and safety practices, and client communication. Whether you’re pursuing a role in a salon, spa, or planning to open your own nail business, this program lays the foundation for licensure and long-term career growth.
Program length: 600 hours. The course includes extensive instruction and practical experience in basic manicure and pedicure, hand and arm massage, application of polish, application of artificial nails, nail structure, ethics, salon procedures, hygiene and sanitation, job interviewing and state laws and regulations..
What sets this Program apart
Why choose us. The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics is passionate about teaching and equipping our students with the best education and techniques possible. We partner with some of the top brands in the beauty industry to provide next level, practical kits in our programs. Students receive education and in many cases, certifications directly from these brands through in-person demos, online curriculum, and ongoing educator led training.
Hands on training. In addition to the foundational training in each of our programs, we teach students how to build clientele, develop strong product knowledge, and manage their cosmetology or esthetics business through our salon-style environment and curriculum. While enrolled, students can see clients up to four days a week, gaining valuable real-world experience. Students also have the opportunity to participate in competitions, themed projects, and outside contests to further express their skills and creativity. We believe that some of the most valuable learning comes from hands on training!
Admission Requirements and Process
Who is admitted. The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics admits as regular students those who are high school graduates, or holders of high school equivalency diplomas. No actions will be made towards admission or Title IV packaging until the proper forms and fees are complete and paid in full. The Strand Institute does not accept ability to benefit (ATB) students at this time.
Tour and entrance exam. Prospective students come in for a tour of the Institute and meet with one of the directors on staff, then take the Strand Institute entrance exam on site: a 20-21 question exam made up of questions relating to adult learning readiness and the program of their interest. Prospective students must score a 75 or above to be eligible for enrollment; multiple choice questions are worth 5 points each and short answer questions 3 points each. The entrance exam may be taken only once per year. After touring the school and taking the exam, the prospect will be notified via email within a week whether they have or have not been accepted.
Enrollment documents. Accepted students register with MEMO Edu to complete registration and upload all necessary enrollment documents: the application form, the $100.00 application fee (paid in the payment portal on the MEMO app), a recent 2” x 2” photo of the applicant’s head and shoulders (due at orientation or the first day of school; it is used for the student permit), and, for students applying for Title IV funds, a copy of one form of identification (passport, government-issued identification, driver’s license or birth certificate), the Social Security card, and one proof of education (standard high school diploma, high school transcripts showing completion, a transcript of at least a two-year program acceptable for full credit towards a bachelor’s degree, or a High School Equivalency diploma or official test scores). Home-schooled students provide documentation from the school district, county or state, or the state’s secondary school completion credential.
Foreign diplomas. The Strand Institute will accept a foreign diploma or transcript; however, it must be equivalent to a U.S. High School Diploma or Transcript, and must be translated into English by a certified translator and evaluated by a credentialed evaluation service, at the student’s responsibility.
Acceptance. The enrollment team and director review each applicant and his or her required admissions materials, including the entrance exam and personal interview, to determine acceptance, and the applicant receives written notification of acceptance or denial. All applicants must go through the entire admissions process, including re-entry students (previously withdrawn) and transfer students.
Transfer students. Enrollment is available for students wishing to transfer to the Institute after they have withdrawn from other cosmetology schools both in and out of state; the student must submit certification of hours and an official transcript prior to signing the enrollment agreement. The Cosmetology Operator to Class A Barber and Eyelash Extension courses do not accept transfer students.
Applicants with disabilities. If the applicant has a disability and needs an academic adjustment, please notify the admissions officer as soon as possible so that The Strand Institute can review your request.
General Requirements
- High school diploma or GEDA completed High School Transcript, Diploma or GED is required to enroll; the Institute admits as regular students those who are high school graduates or holders of high school…
- Tour and director meetingCome in for a tour of the Institute and meet with one of the directors on staff.
- Entrance exam score of 75Take the Strand Institute entrance exam on site and score a 75 or above to be eligible for enrollment; the exam may be taken once per year.
- Application form and feeComplete and submit the application form through the MEMO app and pay the $100.00 application fee in its payment portal.
- Photo for the student permitSubmit a recent 2” x 2” photo of your head and shoulders, due at orientation or the first day of school.
- No experience neededNo prior experience is required. This course is open to individuals interested in starting a career in the beauty field.
Application Process
- 1Request informationIf you are interested in learning more about our programs, financial aid options, or have any other questions, complete the form and one of our admissions representatives will reach out to you.
- 2Tour the InstituteCome in for a tour of the Institute and meet with one of the directors on staff.
- 3Take the entrance examTake the 20-21 question Strand Institute entrance exam on site; a score of 75 or above is required.
- 4Receive your decisionAfter touring the school and taking the exam, you will be notified via email within a week whether you have or have not been accepted.
- 5Register and upload documentsRegister with MEMO Edu to complete registration, submit the application form and $100.00 application fee, and upload all necessary enrollment documents.
- 6Complete the FAFSAStudents interested in applying for financial aid will need to complete a FAFSA and add our school code: 042745.FAFSA Code for Corpus Christi: 042745FAFSA at studentaid.gov
Program Schedule
600 clock hours. The Nail Technician course is 600 clock hours, approximately 18 weeks full-time attendance and 28 weeks part-time attendance to complete. The program page puts it at 4-6 months, depending on the schedule that you enroll in.
Two schedules. Full Time: Tuesday-Friday from 9am to 5pm with Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. Part time: Tuesday-Friday from 9am to 2:30pm. Full-time students are required to be in attendance a minimum of seven and a half (7.5) hours per day during the week and four (4) hours per day on Saturdays, thirty four (34) hours per week; full time students may not miss Saturdays.
Start dates. Our programs have new start dates every other month, on the first Tuesday of the month. The 2026 start dates will be in January, March, May, July, September, and November. A student may enroll at any time prior to the start of a new class.
Holidays. The Strand Institute allows the following holidays off: New Year’s Day and the day after (the 2nd), Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Attendance. During the contracted enrollment period, the student must maintain a 90% attendance average each month to complete the program by the contracted end date. The student can miss 10% of his or her scheduled hours before having to pay extra instructional charges, and may not be out of the Institute 14 consecutive calendar days.
Required Courses
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Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
Attending an accredited school means its training has been reviewed against independent standards that protect students.
This school: The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education; it is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
- A reliable indicator of educational quality
- Reviewed against independent standards
- Recognized by employers and licensing boards
Accreditations
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition costs. Nail Technician - 600 class hours, per the catalog:
- Tuition: $7,200.00
- Books/Equipment: $1,300.00
- Application Fee: $100.00
- Student Permit Fee: $25.00
- Total Costs of Nail Technician Program: $8,625.00
State Board licensing fees. The State Board licensing examination fees are not included in the student tuition and fee charges and will be an additional charge to the student, upon completion of the program: Practical Examination Fee $76.00, Computer Based Written Examination $55.00, and License $50.00, a total of $181.00.
Financial aid. The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics is an accredited institution. Students may be eligible to receive Financial Aid, but we also offer in-house financing and consumer financing options. Students interested in applying for financial aid will need to complete a FAFSA and add our school code: 042745. The school’s net price calculator is linked from its Consumer Information page (Net Price Calculator).
Paying for school. Accepted forms of payment are cash, check, money order, credit card (3% fee added to credit card charge) or financial aid to those who qualify. The Strand Institute offers a variety of monthly financial payment schedules, and you can pay online toward your program—make a payment, submit a down payment, or pay in full. Students past due on their accounts will be charged a $30.00 fee. Veterans or eligible persons: the cost of the Books / Equipment / Supplies may not be paid by the VA and the veteran or eligible person will be responsible for payment themselves.
Additional hours. If the student must attend additional program hours beyond his/her contracted end date, the student will be charged an additional $10.00 for each hour scheduled to complete after the contracted end date is reached. There is a $50.00 fee for any missed Saturday.
Cancellation and refunds. A student who cancels within three (3) days of signing the enrollment contract receives all monies back except the nonrefundable application fee; after three days but before entering classes, all monies paid less the $100 application fee. Monies paid for a student kit are nonrefundable unless the student cancels within three (3) business days of signing or before entering class. After classes begin, refunds follow the Texas schedule: 90 percent of any outstanding tuition during the first week or first 10 percent of the course, 80 percent within the first three weeks, 75 percent through the first 25 percent of the course, and 50 percent through the first 50 percent; in the last 50 percent the school may retain 100 percent of the tuition and fees paid.
Curriculum
Course outline. Students will receive training in the skills, art, science, and practice of nail care. The 600 clock hours are taught as Theory and Related Practice (400 hours) and Specialty Practice (200 hours), listed in the table below. The curriculum involves 600 hours to satisfy Texas requirements. The course includes extensive instruction and practical experience in basic manicure and pedicure, hand and arm massage, application of polish, application of artificial nails, nail structure, ethics, salon procedures, hygiene and sanitation, job interviewing and state laws and regulations.
Instructional method. The course will use lectures, demonstrations, and student participation. Students will demonstrate their competency in theory and practice through mannequin and client services or activities. The school uses audio, visual, and hands on techniques to teach and demonstrate necessary curriculum. The last part of your course will be spent in “high gear” by dressing, acting and working like a beauty industry professional, preparing for the state practical licensing examination required by TDLR.
Grading. Students will be graded on bookwork, assignments, exams, and practicals. Practical and clinical work is graded by a signature on the student’s practical clinical worksheet or guest ticket; students are required to continue and/or repeat the practical application until they receive a signature from an instructor. Any grade less than 70% is an F.
Learning outcomes. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the structure, health, and care of nails.
- Master manicure and pedicure techniques.
- Learn application of artificial nails including acrylics, gels, and wraps.
- Explore and work on the development of trends in the nail industry.
- Practice safe sanitation and sterilization methods in the salon environment to prevent contamination and promote client health.
- Understand business practices within the beauty industry, including customer service, scheduling, and retail sales.
Textbooks and kit. The textbooks, Milady's Standard Nail Technology, 8th edition (textbook and theory workbook) are included in the student kit at a discounted price; the student equipment kit is a branded, custom made kit and not available to the public for purchase. There is a non-return policy on kits for all programs.
Required Courses
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Career Outcomes
Licensure. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a certificate of completion, making them eligible to take a licensure exam and then find employment in the beauty industry. The catalog says students are prepared to become an entry level Nail Technician.
Career opportunities. Career opportunities for cosmetologists include, but are not limited to: Hair Stylist, Color Stylist, Makeup Artist, Nail Technician, Educator, Salon Owner/Manager, Product Trainer, Platform Artist, Esthetician, Eyelash Extension Technician, and many more.
Placement assistance. Upon successful completion of a course, it is our policy to make every effort to assist our graduates in finding employment. Although The Strand Institute provides placement assistance, the school cannot guarantee employment. Many of our students prefer self-employment, and we believe that by equipping our students with quality education in business, ethics and marketing skills they should be able to successfully develop their own private practice.
Outcome rates. NACCAS performance statistics for calendar year 2024 (the school as a whole): graduation 87.50%, placement 76.79%, licensure 100.00%.
What to expect as a Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics student
Where passion meets education. Welcome to The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics, where passion meets education and beauty transforms lives. For over 10 years, we have been proud to offer top-notch training in the beauty industry. When it comes to the beauty industry, our mission is simple: To make people feel good about themselves. From our students to the clients they serve, we take pride in creating an environment where confidence, creativity, and growth flourish.
Family-owned. The Strand Institute is a family-owned and operated business. We believe not only in helping students develop their talents, but also in giving back to our community. Our students and staff have contributed their time, services, and financial support to organizations such as The Purple Door, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Be The Match.
The facility. The 4,150 square foot facility includes a student lounge with lockers, client reception, administration offices, private classrooms, workstations, and equipment, with a street level entrance and two handicap accessible bathrooms. The Strand Institute is located on over .5 acres of land, with a parking lot for student and client use.
Guest services. All work in the student salon is performed by students under the supervision of instructors; client hours are Wednesday to Friday 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Professional guidelines. All students must commit to and follow the Student Professional Guidelines during their enrollment. These guidelines were established to assist in creating a safe, focused and enjoyable learning experience. The Strand Institute records attendance in clock hours with a computerized time clock, and full-time students clock in and out four times per day.
Graduation. To graduate, students receive the required number of clock hours of training, complete all monthly clinic practical worksheets, satisfactorily pass final written and practical exams and the required Milady theory exams, and pay all tuition costs or make satisfactory arrangements. Upon graduation, the student will receive a certificate; graduation ceremonies are held once a month.
Testimonials
“The instructors are great, the school is organized, clean, and they teach you a lot.”
Other Programs at Corpus Christi
The Strand Institute of Beauty & Esthetics in Corpus Christi, TX also offers these 6 programs at 2141 Tuloso Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78409.
- Class A BarberCertificate · 1,000 clock hours — about 30 weeks full time or 46 weeks part time
- Cosmetology OperatorCertificate · 1,000 clock hours — about 30 weeks full time or 46 weeks part time
- Cosmetology Operator to Class A BarberCertificate · 300 clock hours — about 9 weeks full time or 14 weeks part time
- EstheticianCertificate · 750 clock hours — about 23 weeks full time or 35 weeks part time
- Esthetician/ManicuristCertificate · 800 clock hours — about 24 weeks full time or 37 weeks part time
- Eyelash ExtensionCertificate · 320 clock hours — about 10 weeks full time or 15 weeks part time