Nail Tech Schools & Training Requirements in Illinois

Nail Technology
IN
Illinois

Illinois is one of the most fashion-forward states in the Midwest, thanks to major cities like Chicago and Springfield.

As a nail technician in this state, you can work in busy metropolitan areas or upscale suburbs to give clients beautiful nails and build your skills

Nail Tech Schools in Chicago
State License Requirements
350
Hours

The next step in getting a nail technician license in Illinois is taking your licensing exams. This includes a written test and a hands-on practical exam. When you apply for your exams, you must also pay a $210 fee to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. After you pass your exams and they approve your application, you may get your IL nail tech license and start your career.

Education Details

How do you get your foot in the door in this field? Of course, it all comes down to training. At a licensed nail tech program in Illinois, you can learn from nail technicians with years or decades of experience. As you learn new techniques, you practice them on mannequin hands to strengthen your skills. You also get to work with real clients, which helps you learn how to communicate with customers and make your work more efficient. In Illinois, applicants need at least 350 hours of training to qualify for licensure. Required course topics are listed below.

Courses Taught at Illinois Nail Tech Schools

  • Nail care history
  • Ethics
  • Bacteriology and sanitation
  • Body systems
  • Massage theory
  • Client communication
  • Sculpting procedures
  • Light-cured gels
  • Machines and apparatus
  • Manicuring
  • Pedicuring
  • Massaging the hands, arms, feet, and legs
  • Product knowledge
  • Salon management
License Renewal
14
License Renewal Hours
2 Years*
License Renewal Period

Like most states, Illinois requires nail technician training and licensure to work legally in this state. If you have a goal to work in nails, then you will need to complete a minimum 350-hour training program, and then go through the initial license application process. Once you receive your nail technician license in Illinois, you will need to renew before September 30th in even-numbered years. The fee for renewal is $25. Illinois also requires 14 continuing education units between each renewal period. Be sure to ask each beauty school in your area how they help students prepare for this process.

Careers
$22,480
Salary
8.1%
Job Outlook Increase
Between 2012 - 2022

When it’s time to start your nail technology career, you can figure out if you fit in at a high-end hair salon, a luxurious resort spa, or a small nail salon. No matter where you work, you can look forward to spending your days applying artificial nails, beautifying natural nails, and softening skin with manicures and pedicures. In Illinois, demand for nail professionals is growing. Between 2014 and 2024, job openings may increase 8% throughout the state (O*Net, 2016). The average salary for an Illinois manicurist is $22,480 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).

Working as a Nail Technician

Nail art and professional nail care services have become increasingly popular within the past decade, which has increased the demand for nail technologists. Nail technologist jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 10% through the year 2024, which is slightly faster than the average growth rate for all other professions. Consumer interest in quicker and mobile nail care services is driving the bulk of the demand, but the need to replace retiring and transitioning nail technologists will also open up new job opportunities for manicurists. Some of the most popular salons in Illinois are:

State board Contact Information

Illinois Dept. of Professional Regulation—Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Board
320 W. Washington St., 3rd Fl.
Springfield, IL 62786
100 W. Randolph Street, 9th Fl.
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone Number: 1-888-473-4858


The Illinois State Board of Cosmetology can help you with replacing a lost cosmetology license, updating change of name or change of address information, and acquiring out-of-state and other useful forms, as well as answer additional questions about obtaining an Illinois state cosmetology license.

Commercial_Combo_Program-Career-Geo
Champaign / Springfield / Decatur — Chicago — Paducah, KY / Cape Girardeau, MO / Harrisburg — Peoria / Bloomington — Quincy / Hannibal, MO / Keokuk, IA — Rockford

Find the Beauty Schools in Illinois that interest you below,

University of Spa and Cosmetology Arts

2913 West White Oaks Drive,
Springfield, IL 62704
Program: Nail Technology

Welcome The University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) offers you a state-of-the-art learning environment with fully equipped classrooms and superior instructors. Our students learn in an atmosphere of professionalism and graduate Welcome The University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) offers you a state-of-the-art learning environment with fully equipped classrooms and superior instructors. Our students learn in an atmosphere of professionalism and graduate knowing they have been trained to meet the highest standards of their profession. Let us help cultivate the artist in you! About Us Our Mission The mission of USCA is to provide our students with the knowledge and training necessary for their chosen program of cosmetology, esthiology, nail technology or teaching. By learning in an atmosphere of professionalism and excellence, USCA students will build a foundation to help prepare them for a successful and satisfying career. We also strive to teach teamwork and respect as well as emphasize the need for continued personal and professional growth in order to meet the highest standards of their profession. Facility & Equipment USCA is located in a new facility that was designed to promote learning and practice of professional skills, in Springfield's very busy west side, near Veterans Parkway and Wabash Avenue. Our students have the advantage of spacious, professionally designed clinic areas and quiet classrooms, with the latest equipment for all areas of study. The student equipment and textbooks are up-to-date, and provide the student with everything they will need for their course of study. The usual class size averages 18 students per instructor. Free parking is provided for students and clients. Accreditation & Memberships USCA is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), a nationally recognized agency for private cosmetology schools. USCA is approved by the Department of Education for participation in federal Title IV student financial aid programs, including PellGrants and Family Federal Education Loans. USCA is licensed by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation to operate as a cosmetology school offering cosmetology, esthiology and nail education. USCA is a member of the Illinois Association of Cosmetology Schools (IACS), the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the International Chain Salon Association (ICSA) and the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce. Enrollment Procedures Are you ready to begin? If you are interested in enrolling or in visiting the school before you make your decision, you should contact us to arrange a visit. An interview with the school's admissions and financial aid counselor is recommended. If you submit an enrollment application by mail, you will be contacted so a visit can be arranged. Programs All programs include Theory (classroom study and discussion), Practical (applying your knowledge by practicing your skills), and Clinic (working on clients in a salon-typesetting to use your skills in a learning process). Cosmetology Explore the latest styles and techniques of hair cutting and styling, skin care, make-up, nail care, haircolor, perming, ethnic hair design, as well as business management and building a clientele. Esthiology Along with skin care training that will include skin analysis, treatment and facial techniques, you will learn the skillful and artistic application of cosmetics, healthful and healing body treatments and business practice knowledge. Nail Technology Manicuring and pedicuring are just the beginning. You will also learn nail care, application of a variety of artificial nail systems, as well as basic nail art techniques and skills to help you develop a clientele that will lead to a successful career. Instructors Training These courses are designed to prepare you to effectively pass along your professional skills and knowledge to future beauty professionals, with instruction in basic principles of teaching, psychology, business experience and supervised teaching experiences.
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American Hair Academy

304 South Iris Street,
Mount Pleasant, IA 52641
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to American Hair Academy If you've ever considered becoming a cosmetologist, the time is now. In fact, there's never been a better time to pursue your beauty training and enjoy a job Welcome to American Hair Academy If you've ever considered becoming a cosmetologist, the time is now. In fact, there's never been a better time to pursue your beauty training and enjoy a job you will love! Employers are looking for skilled beauty workers, and graduates of schools like American Hair Academy are sought after by top salons. If you're an artistic person who appreciates helping others look and feel great about themselves, let American Hair Academy guide you toward your professional goals! As a cosmetologist, you'll enjoy flexible scheduling, increased earning potential and working in the exhilarating beauty industry. About Us At American Hair Academy, we base our success on the success of our students. If you have the desire and the confidence to achieve academic advancement, we can give you the tools you need to reach your professional goals. You'll learn from dedicated instructors who are invested in your future. We train students for careers in various positions in the beauty industry, including: • Stylist • Color specialist • Product representative • Platform artist • Salon manager • Salon owner • And more! American Hair Academy also makes every effort to assist our students with career placement. Financial Aid At American Hair Academy, we believe that everyone should have an equal opportunity to benefit from higher education. That's why we provide financial aid to those who qualify. We'll help you explore your options so you can decide on the best way to pay for your education. Licensure & Accreditation • Licensed by the Iowa Department of Public Health Bureau of Professional Licensure • Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) For more information about our cosmetology program, including federally required disclosures please click:  http://www.americanhairacademy.com
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

142 East Golf Road,
Chicago Area/Schaumburg, IL 60193
Program: Cosmetology

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

700 East Terra Cotta Avenue,
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Program: Cosmetology

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

609 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123
Program: Cosmetology

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Hair Professionals Academy

825 B Village Quarter Road,
Elgin-West Dundee, IL 60118
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to HSPI We always are pleased to have you visit with us and see our facilities and meet our people. You will find a great place to learn, enthusiastic students, a bilingual Welcome to HSPI We always are pleased to have you visit with us and see our facilities and meet our people. You will find a great place to learn, enthusiastic students, a bilingual learning environment, helpful teachers and a learning atmosphere unequalled in the beauty area. Cosmetology We offer a bilingual cosmetology program with the latest European techniques in hair, skin care, make-up and nails. You will combine your natural talents with our excellent training program in order to receive your certification as a cosmetologist. Our thorough cosmetology program includes studies in salon management, nail technology, skincare, hair coloring, haircutting, perming, hair relaxing, hair styling, anatomy and physiology, chemistry and client communication. Once licensed, our graduates work in all areas of the beauty industry. Our graduates work as stylists, make up artists, educators, colorists, estheticians, nail technicians, and salon owners. The HSPI education is very thorough. Throughout the Cosmetology program, you will learn the following: Cosmetology Sciences Infection Control, Basic Anatomy, and Basics of Chemistry and Electricity. Hair Care Properties of the Hair and Scalp, Principles of Hair Design, Shampooing, Rinsing, and Conditioning Haircutting, Hairstyling, Braiding, Wigs, Chemical Texture Services, and Hair Coloring. Skin Care Histology of the Skin, Hair Removal, Facials, and Facial Make-up. Nail Care Nail Structure and Growth, Manicuring and Pedicuring, and Advanced Nail Techniques. The Business of Cosmetology The Salon Business, Preparing for and Seeking Employment, On the Job, and Illinois State Rules and Regulations.  
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G Skin & Beauty Institute

1200 Harger Road,Suite 100
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to GBeauty Institutes/Hair Professionals Academy This new school offers full and part time schedules as well as financing options and financial aid to those who qualify. G Skin & Beauty Institute of Welcome to GBeauty Institutes/Hair Professionals Academy This new school offers full and part time schedules as well as financing options and financial aid to those who qualify. G Skin & Beauty Institute of Oak Brook joins the family of Hair Professionals Academy, Naperville Skin Institute, and G Skin & Beauty Institute Las Vegas. We always are pleased to have you visit with us and see our facilities and meet our people. You will find a great place to learn, enthusiastic students, helpful teachers and a learning atmosphere unequalled in the beauty area. We do have financial aid for most programs. Please contact financial department to find out if you qualify. Cosmetology The emphasis of our cosmetology program is from the latest European techniques in hair, skin care, make-up and nails. You will combine your natural talents with our excellent training program in order to receive your certification as a cosmetologist. Our thorough cosmetology program includes studies in salon management, nail technology, skincare, hair coloring, haircutting, perming, hair relaxing, hair styling, anatomy and physiology, chemistry and client communication. Once licensed, our graduates work in all areas of the beauty industry. Our graduates work as stylists, make up artists, educators, colorists, estheticians, nail technicians, and salon owners. The Hair Professionals Academy education is very thorough. Throughout the Cosmetology program, you will learn the following: Cosmetology Sciences Infection Control, Basic Anatomy, and Basics of Chemistry and Electricity. Hair Care Properties of the Hair and Scalp, Principles of Hair Design, Shampooing, Rinsing, and Conditioning Haircutting, Hairstyling, Braiding, Wigs, Chemical Texture Services, and Hair Coloring. Skin Care Histology of the Skin, Hair Removal, Facials, and Facial Make-up. Nail Care Nail Structure and Growth, Manicuring and Pedicuring, and Advanced Nail Techniques. The Business of Cosmetology The Salon Business, Preparing for and Seeking Employment, On the Job, and Illinois State Rules and Regulations. Esthiology Skin care is one of the fastest growing areas of the beauty industry. Within our curriculum our students learn through theory and practical knowledge the concepts of facials, machine facials, microdermabrasion, peels, medical esthetics, advanced esthetics techniques, LED, oxygen therapy, makeup, body treatments, hair removal, salon management, and the latest techniques in the esthetics field. Once licensed, our graduates work in all areas of the skin industry, not only in spas but also for dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Some of our graduates choose to sell or demonstrate skin care products; others are self-employed throughout the skin industry. The Esthiology program includes: Ancient History-Modern Times A journey through time Esthetics then and now: The Natural Sciences Anatomy and Physiology of the Skin. Body Systems Bones, Muscles, and Nerves of the Face and Skull, Bacteriology and Sanitation, and Nutrition. The Treatment Room Room Furnishing, Technological Tools Basics of Electricity, First Impression: set up and Supplies. Skin Types & Condition! Health Screening and Skin Analysis. The Facial Anatomy of the Facial, Men's Facials, and Post-Consultation and Home Care. Advanced Sciences Advance Sciences Disorders and Disease, Pharmacology, Product chemistry, Advanced Ingredient Technology Advanced Skin Care Aging Skin Morphology and Treatment, Sensitive Skin: Morphology and Treatment, Hyper pigmentation Morphology and Treatment, Ethnic Skin: Morphology and Treatment, Exfoliation, Holistic/Alternative Skin Care, and Advanced Home Care. Epilation Methods of Hair Removal and Waxing procedures. Make-up Artistry Color Theory, Facial Features and Set-up, and Makeup Application. Body Treatments The Spa Body Treatments and The Value of Spa Treatments. Advanced Clinical Skin Care Career Opportunities, Plastic and Reconstructive Treatments, Patient roles and the role of the Esthetician, Prepare to Heal: Pre-and Post Operative Care, Camouflage Therapy, and Illinois State Rules & Regulations.  
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John Amico School of Hair Design

15301 Cicero Avenue,
Oak Forest, IL 60452
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome To John Amico School of Hair Design John Amico is a recognized name in salons through out the United States. Amico, who personally formulates organic hair and skin products along with Welcome To John Amico School of Hair Design John Amico is a recognized name in salons through out the United States. Amico, who personally formulates organic hair and skin products along with organic hair color, perms, and relaxers has many lines that are used by some of the top names in the beauty industry. He brings the same passion he has used to create these products into his enterprise of Beauty Education. Amico has founded and owned three large chains with over 425 salons. Now after selling them to move forward in the industry, he is giving back to students and professionals by sharing his knowledge, acquired through a lifetime of experience. For over 45 years, John Amico has been educating students to enter a professional career in the Beauty Industry. Amico has provided thousands of graduates with State Of the Art "Cosmetology Education," and many have gone on to become very successful stylists and salon owners. Amico's exclusive location in Oak Forest is a suburb of Chicago that offers Salon and Spa Services to clients as if they were in a salon. Student stylists, supervised by Amico's handpicked professional educators, perform services with Amico's highest quality cutting-edge products. The Educators are very well known, such as Managing Director Oliva Barr and European Artistic Directors Yenz and Reinout. John Amico Jr., who has a long history in developing hundreds of salons, is also active in training students in salon business and ownership. Amico's school is designed to have the feel of a real salon, so students have a sense of working in an authentic setting. The school is equipped with the latest unique visual teaching aids, the same used in some of the top salons in America. The education is focused with the student in mind, so they are self assured and salon-ready upon graduation. Our students don't just complete Cosmetology State Board exams with confidence; they leave ready to start on successful, rewarding careers in an exciting growth industry. Salon owners share with us that our students are consistently salon-ready for positions in their businesses. This is one of the many reasons why our graduates work in some of the finest high-end salons and spas, and quickly reach solid financial security. We Feature Accelerated classes so students can complete on a fast tract Career Placement Financial Aid Available if students qualify Small classes for better learning Full-time and Part-time, Day and Evening schedules available Cosmetology Our Cosmetology training will teach you what is on the runways today in cutting, designing, coloring, hair additions and texture services. From day one, you will begin to perform hands on in workshops. Throughout the cosmetology program, you will also learn the latest American and Europeaon techniques. Spa Education • Become an Esthetician • Complete in 6 months • Learn Facials, Skin Care, Dermalogica Products, Make-up, Massage and Full Waxing • New, State of the Art facilities • Full or Part-Time • Days or Evenings • Government Financial Aid (if qualified) • Fully accredited Classes Include Hair Cutting and Styling Hair Coloring with the newest organic formulations Chemical perming and straighting systems Organic Hair Care Products Nail Care Skin Care Photo Session Training for Magazine and Movie Work Salon Business Management Salon Ownership Training Self Esteem Training Client Consultation Hair Repairing Organic Treatment Extensions for more length and fullness Exposure to Top Artists At John Amico we host our own National Convention where hundreds of top stylists from around the world are invited. The Convention is close to our Campus so students are actively involved in all aspects of the classes and workshops. There are many career options that are available other than working in spas or salons. You can be a representative or trainer for a manufacturer, or work as a writer or consultant to the industry. You can enjoy the pleasures of travel through choosing an appropriate career, or even be a stylist on a cruise ship! Additional Courses are available for Cosmetology Instructors and Advanced Continuing Education Credits for Licensed Professionals. After Graduation Each year the John Amico Hair Care Company takes hundreds of professionals on a 7-Day Educational Cruise to the Caribbean, which is another exciting aspect to expand their education. We offer student graduates a complimentary invitation to continue their education at our annual national convention Chicago-Chicago. We also offer monthly continuing education classes. Plus, graduates are invited to participate in semi annual photo sessions to potentially have their work published nationally and internationally in stylebooks, trade publications and consumer magazines. Contact us for information on training at John Amico's School of Hair Design for a career with Security, Recognition and a Great Future!
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

657 Highgrove Place Rockford,
Rockford, IL 61108
Program: Cosmetology

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Empire Beauty School - Stone Park-Chicago

3106 West North Avenue,
Stone Park, IL 60165
Program: Cosmetology

As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people to improve their lives. For more than 80 years, Empire has maintained this strong heritage and tradition of training future beauty professionals for rewarding and in-demand careers in the beauty industry. And, all Empire Education Group schools are also backed by the Regis Corporation, a Fortune 1000 company, and industry partner of Empire Education Group.
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Hair Professionals Career College

2245 Gateway Drive,
Sycamore, IL 60178
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to Hair Professionals   Our school is located conveniently to all of the southern Chicago suburbs. From the most seasoned staff members to the ones in training, you will be gaining the knowledge of Welcome to Hair Professionals   Our school is located conveniently to all of the southern Chicago suburbs. From the most seasoned staff members to the ones in training, you will be gaining the knowledge of many years of experience, from the most dedicated, caring instructors and office staff who work together as a team. School owner and Director Wanda Zachary with over 35 years experience in the school industry. She is active in all of our schools, bringing in the great techniques to make learning fun. Our Students are our clients! This concept means that you as our students are the center of our attention, as your client will be the center of your attention when you graduate. In addition to our location in the Chicago / Palos Hills area, Hair Professionals Career College has two additional schools in Illinois in Oswego (Aurora / Naperville area) and Sycamore ( Dekalb / NIU area ). Use the links at the bottom of this page to easily request information from these additional locations. Cosmetology A variety of career opportunities could be yours with specialized cosmetology skills. What could be more satisfying than a profession where you unleash your creativity on your way to a beautiful, rewarding future? With skills you can use lifelong. Our cosmetology program is offered full-time and part time fit into your busy life style. In total we offer six different schedules to meet your busy lifestyle! Hair Professionals uses Salon fundamentals. The programs includes; • hair cutting • coloring • perming • skin care • make-up • nails • spa treatments Esthetics If you have an interest in the Health, beauty and wellness of the skin this will be just the career you are looking for! The entire course can be completed in 7 to 12 months depending on the schedule you choose. Growth in Day Spas are is rampant as the need for estheticians is growing just as fast. Now more than giving the luxury of a facial estheticians are professional and consultants with the awareness of skin conditions as well as the scientific knowledge necessary to make recommendations based on biological and clinical analysis. Employment opportunities in the world of esthetics include; Day Spas Doctors office Dermatologist Plastic Surgeon Make-Up Artist Image Consultant Health Spa Wellness Center Prepare for an exciting new Career. Classes will consist of lectures, demos, and hands on workshops. The course will include the use of professional products and state of the art facial machines. You will also be instructed on proper sanitation, waxing and make-up techniques. Instructor Training Course For the licensed Cosmetologist, Esthetics and Nail Tech who desires to qualify for Instructor license. This course includes all theoretical and practical instruction as prescribed by the Illinois State Board of Cosmetology. Hair Professional's is proud to offer this service to and add to the quality of teachers in our profession. Please email us for more information.
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Empire Beauty School - Vernon Hills-Chicago

226 Hawthorn Village Commons,
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Program: Cosmetology

As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people to improve their lives. For more than 80 years, Empire has maintained this strong heritage and tradition of training future beauty professionals for rewarding and in-demand careers in the beauty industry. And, all Empire Education Group schools are also backed by the Regis Corporation, a Fortune 1000 company, and industry partner of Empire Education Group.
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2021-04-11 10:53:40