Brian JonesDid you know that a beauty technician can earn up to $155,000 per year? Well, I didn’t, so now I look at my four-year diploma, sigh, and wish I actually had the eye (and social skills) to help people feel beautiful.
Still, I love my job enough to want to help you find the best medical aesthetician courses in Edmonton. I know it’s tough to find courses that will actually help you get a solid job placement, so I rallied the entire team to find the ones you can trust.
Our insights here come from reaching out to the schools themselves, speaking to current and past students, and comparing education quality to the national standards. Sounds good? Well then, let’s dive in!
How much does a medical aesthetician course cost in Edmonton?
The cost of a medical aesthetician course in Edmonton starts from $3,000 for short courses and up to $12,000 for full-time diploma programs. Additional costs can include supplies and other course prerequisites.
How We Picked
1. La Vie Academy
Location: 11502 170 St NW unit 101, Edmonton, AB T5S 1J7, Canada
Contact: +1 587-410-7397
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
La Vie Academy stood out to us with its comprehensive curriculum and flexible courses. They currently offer three nationally accredited programs, all operating in a small class size that can be taken online.
What we loved best about their online training is that they come with one-hour Zoom sessions (depending on the course, it can be after every module, each week, or prior to practical training). This strengthens the learning process which is a major plus.
Speaking of strengthening the learning process, every course comes with practical hands-on training. The stand-out part of this stage is the fact that students actually get to work with real clients and handle medical-grade tech and equipment.
Just a head’s up – classes here La Vie Academy aren’t exactly budget-friendly options, with fees ranging from $4,500 to $11,650. Fortunately, the academy does offer affordable payment plans – you just have to contact them for it.
Apart from reliable instructors and responsive customer service, their 98% job placement rate is also their big selling point. When we spoke to one of the recent graduates, she told us that the academy even called a local clinic to help her get placed immediately.
As a final note, classes can be taken anywhere (so they’re feasible for students with full-time commitments). You’ll just have to take time off from the practicum option, but the rest of the program is all at your pace.
Pros
- Nationally accredited programs
- Online and hands-on training offered
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Zoom sessions for follow-up learning
- Opportunity to work with real clients
- Affordable payment plans offered
- Small class size
- 98% job placement rate
Cons
- Relatively more expensive tuition
Sweet, friendly, and knowledgeable instructors
I completed the basic program. This program was so so much fun, the online portion was straightforward and made me feel very confident going into the practicum portion. I had Charlene for my practicum and she is the sweetest, friendliest, knowledgeable yet most professional person. She made me feel extremely comfortable and makes sure all her students are confident walking into the final exam. Hira (the director) is also the nicest, most bubbly person who made me feel more than confident to join the program. I was so sad come the end of the practicum, I didn’t want it to end. My only regret was not coming to do this program sooner and choosing to take the advanced program to further my knowledge. I absolutely love how they want to stay in contact with the former students as well. Would recommend this school to anyone!! If you’re thinking about coming here, 100% do it!!
Madison Jackson | Google Review
Makes me feel confident in my future
I had the best experience with La Vie Academy; they were super responsive, accommodating and kind. I was hesitant to choose this school at first because it all seemed too good to be true, but you won’t regret it! All the instructors, especially Krista and Charlene, are the best people you could ask for:) Super professional, but at the same time, they feel like close friends. I learned a lot and the fact that they still connect to their alumni, really makes me confident in my future in the medical aesthetics field. Thank You La Vie Academy<3
Stephanie Lag | Google Review
2. European Institute of Esthetics
Location: 6724 75 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6T9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-466-5271
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
For those who want a wide range of options, the European Institute of Esthetics is a fantastic choice. Apart from their 8 diploma programs, the place also offers over 70 certificate courses, some of which are even free.
We definitely liked the school for being more affordable compared to other options. In fact, it’s one of the only few institutions that offer flexible financing options and student aid. One example is that they make scholarships easy through Student Aid Alberta.
On top of that, the institution even offers an affiliate program where students can earn a 5% affiliate commission by promoting their courses. For students who want to maximize their income while still learning, it’s an attractive option.
But of course, their programs are still their best offering, with a blend of online theory and in-class hands-on training. They have small class sizes and monthly start dates which basically means you can start your career right away,
The school also uses Silhouet-Tone medical spa equipment which offers robust professional laser treatment education. However, we did note that several of their equipment seem to be outdated (physically old with signs of wear), which can affect the experience.
Fortunately, being one of only five schools in Canada to currently hold a CIDESCO certification, we still feel confident in the quality of their services. Plus, enrolling online here was extremely convenient and fast – one of the best we’ve encountered.
Pros
- 70+ industry-recognized certificate courses
- 8 diploma programs
- Holds a CIDESCO certification
- Affiliate program available
- Flexible financing and funding options
- Easy access to student aid and scholarships
- Small class size
- Top-grade medical laser equipment
- On-site service rooms available for rent
- Fast and easy online enrollment
- Student discounts available at PROBEAUTY Group
Cons
- Certain equipment and tools are outdated
- Inconsistent training quality from instructors
Game-changing learning experience
Just finished my advanced clinical course at EIE. Take my advice if you have any doubts, do it! The school is beautifully clean and welcoming. Students and staff are absolutely amazing, always willing to help you. You of course learn a lot about the world of aesthetics but also practical life skills. Being introduced to machines and products threw out my study has been a game changer, I couldn’t recommend them more!!
Jade Moroz | Google Review
Goes above and beyond
Started my Full Esthetics training with EIE online and I have to say I’m really impressed with how things are set up. The online portal is very easy to navigate and I love being able to work on the individual modules at my own pace. Tuning in to the Zoom meeting and talking with peers and my instructor Juana is also a great experience. Juana goes above and beyond to help her students be as successful as they can be and responds to emails promptly. I also get a few laughs in during her recorded lessons, love the way she teaches. I’m looking forward to honing in on my practical skills once the school reopens!
Rene Fougere | Google Review
3. Alberta Academy Of Aesthetics
Location: 8882 170 St NW #2047, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2, Canada
Contact: +1 780-486-7201
Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
What we found best at the Alberta Academy Of Aesthetics or AAA is their complete and comprehensive programs. Overall, they offer beauty, makeup, and hair programs which can all be learned in a real salon setting.
Speaking of which, students get to work with real clients under professional supervision. The best part about this is that there are extra practical times when they can earn while learning. It also helps that the salon is newly renovated with the right tools.
Unlike other courses that are relatively quick to complete, the program here involves 10 and a half months of learning. This is because they cover pretty much every service there is that are offered at salons, spas, and medical spas.
The downside, of course, is the lack of flexibility and online learning options. On top of that, requirements here are slightly more stringent than others, with specific grading requirements from your time in high school.
On the good side though, students who qualify for full-time programs can access Alberta and Canada Student Loans easily. And if the payments are still too difficult to meet, they can contact the school to rearrange their tuition payment schedules.
Finally, we see AAA as a fantastic option for those who truly want a career-oriented future. Job placement assistance here is fast and well-supported – as long as the student has graduated successfully.
Amazing support from talented instructors
I would highly recommend Alberta Academy Of Aesthetics in Edmonton. Great learning experience. Everyone here is super friendly and I have gained some good friends here. Lots of support and knowledge from amazing talented instructors and staff! I am enjoying every moment of my time in Academy. This is absolutely the place to start your career in beauty industry!
Alena Lemberg | Google Review
Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable
Super friendly, attentive, knowledgeable staff …. They have a large new space in the west edmonton mall and are introducing the hair program. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in getting into the industry.
Anne Smith | Google Review
4. International Academy Of Esthetics & Laser School
Location: 150 Chippewa Rd #122, Sherwood Park, AB T8A, Canada, Canada
Contact: +1 780-449-1225
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The International Academy Of Esthetics or IAE made our list with their flexible offerings. Apart from their popular ITEC Esthetics Diploma Programs, the school also offers technician training and certificate courses for those wanting to upskill.
Their Certified Medical Esthetics Program is definitely one of the city’s best, with class sizes of 3 to 6 students maximum each. Apart from such a small class size, they also won us over with their relatively easy admission process.
To give you an idea, most students here have a high school diploma, however, this isn’t required. On top of that, the courses run during the evenings and weekends, making them a fantastic choice for those with full-time schedules.
However, do take note that this program comes with pre-requisites: Bloodborne Pathogens Certification and Pre-empt Certification. Additionally, this program doesn’t qualify for federal or provincial student loans.
Fortunately, you can get a student line of credit through your financial institution. Plus, the program is relatively more affordable than other options, starting at $8,280 + GST.
Like most programs, IAE blends online theory classes and in-person practical training. But what made them stand out is the range of skills they cover – from medical procedures to the business of spa – which makes them a great choice for prospective spa owners.
Pros
- Maximum of 3 to 6 students per class
- Comprehensive ITEC Esthetics Diploma Programs
- Easy admission process
- Flexible entry requirements
- Relatively affordable tuition
- Covers a wide range of skills
- Classes in the evenings and weekends
Cons
- Prerequisites required for diploma programs
- Not qualified for federal or provincial student loans\
Understanding and welcoming instructors
I would like to share my experience here. I took 3 programs there, facial program, body waxing, and dermaplaning, and I loved it. The environment there is so welcoming and comfortable. Amazing school. Understanding and welcoming instructors and the main person of IAE Cynthia is always so helpful and welcoming. My time at the school has been filled with knowledge and confidence. I totally recommend this school.
Rajwinder Dhiman | Google Review
Supportive and knowledgeable educators
I recently graduated from this school’s full time Esthetics program, and I’m currently enrolled in their Laser Practitioner program. My time at the school has been filled with knowledge, fun, and lots of practice. My two teachers, Robin and Janelle, were wonderful. They are both very knowledgeable, understanding, and enjoyable. Robin’s history and knowledge in the Esthetics field is admirable and she is truly an outstanding teacher. During this program I met some lifelong friends and had some wonderful interactions with very supportive clients and educators. I’m set up and ready to begin my journey in Esthetics and continue my education. Thank you IAE.
Destiny Halliday | Google Review
5. Esthetics Plus
Location: 11350 119 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 2X4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-466-5544
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Esthetics Plus is a great option if you want to build on service-specific skills. In particular, the place offers two medical esthetics programs: Dermaplaning PRO Training Course and Chemical Peels.
Both courses operate in a small class size which is always an advantageous option. On top of that, students also get a kit that includes supplies to complete 100 treatments (for Dermaplaning).
The most interesting part of their program is the fact that students get to have an Exclusive IMAGE Skincare Kit. So if you enroll, you get to enjoy various products to really elevate your skincare routine (there’s also a PRO Upgrade Kit option for $429 +GST).
Another standout feature here is the ease of enrollment. Everything is a breeze online and you immediately get access to an Esthetics Plus online account.
The courses, on the other hand, are not online. In fact, these are purely in-person classes with scattered dates in various months.
Finally, it’s important to note that these are supplementary programs only which you can take if you want to diversify your skillset. To qualify, you need an industry professional certificate.
Pros
- Program comes with supplies kit
- Exclusive IMAGE Skincare Kit for students
- Easy registration process
- Affordable courses
- Free online education courses available
Cons
- No online programs available
- Requires industry professional certification to qualify
Amazing people to deal with
I absolutely love dealing with Esthetics Plus. I took my nail education here and my waxing and I cannot say thank you enough for all the encouragement amazing products and of course for the laughter that I have had from this place. The mancine wax is by far the nicest wax I have ever used and I have tried a few. My waxing clientele return is 86% which is amazing and I believe the Mancine product has a lot to do with that. Anytime I have needed help or have had any questions I always get an answer they are quick to respond and amazing people to deal with. I put an order in Monday afternoon late in the day and I had it the very next day this is unbelievable and I am so grateful to deal with such an amazing company. So thank you to all of you esthetic Plus. This is amazing at the front desk extremely helpful and super fun to deal with and Courtney was my educator for both waxing and nails and there isn’t a question I could ask her that she doesn’t know the answer to.
Charlie Welsh | Google Review
Always willing to help
I love the staff at EP. Always willing to help with my questions, education & purchases. Great selection of products, Image Skincare & Caronlab wax are a few of my favorite products. Thank you for caring about the mental health of your family including your clients. Cheers to many more years of education.
Tracey Biron | Google Review
