Nail Technology
Overview
Learn the latest in advanced hand, foot, and nail treatments including tips, overlays, sculptured, gel, and acrylics in VCC’s state-of-the-art salon and spa.
| Tuition | $5,982 |
|---|---|
| Credential | Certificate |
| Length | 4 months |
| Hours | Part- or Full-time |
| Delivery | Class-based and Online |
| Campus | Downtown |
What to expect
Practical training is conducted in a fully equipped public and training spa where treatments are offered to paying clients, providing an authentic industry experience.
Related theoretical content is delivered though lectures, demonstrations and various teaching strategies in the classroom and is continuously integrated into the practical work. Course may be offered face to face, online or a blended format.
Strategies include:
- Guest speakers such as product experts and spa owners
- Field trips, in-person or virtual, such as trade shows, supply companies, vendors and skills competitions
- Case studies
- Group work
Participation is an integral part to the development of practical skills in the program; therefore students assume the role of client, therapist and nail technician.
Practicum offers students spa industry work experience, opportunities to practice knowledge and skills learned at the college and potential for employment.
Practical training is conducted in a fully equipped facility.
What you will learn
- Demonstrate nails applications in accordance with safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards and regulations.
- Apply knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and chemical composition specific to concerns relating to nails, hands, feet and skin.
- Perform nail treatments based on client consultation.
- Apply the principles of colour and design to specialized nail techniques.
- Create artificial nail structures, tips, overlays, sculptured, gel and acrylics.
- Perform in an ethical and professional manner appropriate to a spa environment.
- Apply retail business administration practices and marketing techniques for operating a spa.
Program duration and maximum time for completion
The Nail Technology Certificate completion pathways are as follows:
- Full time program is 4 months in length
- Part time program program is 8 months in length
Maximum time for completion is 2 years.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Knowledge of English demonstrated by one of the following:
- English Language Proficiency at a Grade 10 level, or equivalent, or
- Academic IELTS 5.5 overall (no band less than 5.0) or TOEFL iBT 68
- Applicants may be given credit for ESTH 1501 Nail Foundations and inserted directly into ESTH 1502 Artificial Nails provided:
- They have successfully completed VCC’s Esthetics and Spa Therapy Certificate or an equivalent Esthetics certificate from an accredited institution; and
- They provide a proof of graduation within the last five (5) years to the department in order to grant permission to register. Proof can be the certificate or a transcript.
- Applicants who do not meet the program admission requirements may be admitted based on an interview with the Department leader or representative.
Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended considerations
To be successful in the Nail Technology Certificate it is recommended students possess the following characteristics:
- Interest in the spa industry and all aspects of hand, feet, artificial nails and nail art
- Genuine interest in administering personal services
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to be creative
- Ability to plan and work independently
- Good depth perception and ability to perceive line and form
- Manual dexterity
Candidates considering this program are likely to be most successful as graduates if they are in good health and are aware that the following health concerns may affect this career:
- Asthma/ Respiratory conditions
- Eczema/ Dermatitis
- Chronic Back conditions
Program availability
Winter 2027 |
|
|---|---|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Feb 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Oct 1, 2026 |
Fall 2027 |
|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Oct 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Jun 1, 2027 |
Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ESTH 1501 | Nail Foundations | 9 |
| ESTH 1502 | Artificial Nails | 9 |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and costs
| Application fee | $36 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $5,982 |
Term 1 - $2,991 Term 2 - $2,991 |
| Student union | $145 | |
| College initiative | $55 | |
| Campus resource | $120 | |
| U-Pass | $188 | Get your student transit pass |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $6,571 |
Books and Supplies
Textbooks or other supplies may be required for this program. Visit the VCC Bookstore for more information.
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.
Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.
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Technical requirement
How to apply
Ready to apply?
Online
You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.
Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5
International students
Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.
Contact us
Advising services
Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]
Advising services for International students
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