Put Your Best Face Forward with an Education in Skincare

If you love all things related to skincare and makeup, and you enjoy helping others look their best, the esthetics program at Capri College may be a great fit. This 600-hour program is designed to teach all aspects of skincare and makeup, including preventative and restorative skincare techniques. Our hands-on training program is led by knowledgeable beauty professionals with years of experience working in the industry. Whether you are learning in the classroom or practicing your skills in the student spa under the direct supervision of our licensed instructors, we encourage you to grow as a person as you explore your passion for esthetics. All four of our campuses offer this exciting program with start dates throughout the year, so get started on your enrollment journey today!

Gain Real-Life Experience in Our Esthetics Program

When you study skincare and makeup in our esthetics program, you can benefit from the hands-on training and practical experience you need to pursue a rewarding career as an esthetician. This 600-hour program can be completed in as few as 26 weeks. The program is split up into two terms. During the first term, you can learn esthetics theory, watch demonstrations, and practice skills in the classroom.

You can also get an introduction to clinical application of certain skills, such as airbrush makeup, facials, massage, and hair removal treatments. The second term focuses on advanced skin treatments and the practical application of your skills in the student spa under the direct supervision of the licensed instructors. The program is designed to foster the skills you already have, teach you what you need to know, and give you the confidence to provide skincare and makeup services to real clients.

If you have an interest in attending our esthetics program in Iowa, we can help you get started on your enrollment journey! One of the most important parts of the enrollment process is the campus tour. Choose one of our four campuses, contact us, and we will find a time that works for you. Your tour lets you see the campus for yourself, meet instructors and current students, and get acquainted with our family-like atmosphere. We also interview each potential student, so we can get to know you and your educational goals, and answer any questions you might have about our program or the enrollment process.

See What Our Students Have To Say

star

Capri in Waterloo is absolutely amazing.I went to school there and they did amazing job I learned so much. I graduated and I still get my hair done there because there prices and the teachers and students do such amazing job every time.

Barbara S.

star

I was a student at Capri and graduated last year. My instructors were all so supportive and kind and always there for us not just with school stuff but personal too. (The amount of times I cried in Surps office cuz I was having a bad day and she never ever made me feel bad for it and would let me sit there and talk to her until I felt better) Capri is not just about beauty, it’s about building lasting friendships and learning about yourself! The beauty industry is literally billions of dollars and we can ALL be successful and Capri helped show us that!!!

Cheyenne L.

star

I graduated from Capri almost 2 years from the cosmetology program and Capri definitely set me up for success with all the knowledge my instructors had and passed down to me! If you are interested in going to cosmetology school I highly recommend Capri College in Waterloo

Madison M.

star

I attended Capri last year and graduated through the cosmetology program and my college experience was great! All the instructors there are very kind and helpful while still letting you have full range of your creativity! S.O to my instructor Surp for pushing me to finish my hours!

Grecia G.

star

I made lifelong friends and made so many great memories along the way. Some of my favorite classes were the special FX makeup, the straight razor course and the facial massage class. I also loved being a Capri Camp counselor and getting to teach the kids about makeup. The scheduling of clients on the floor was a great way for me to become more sociable and comfortable with multitasking my work and getting to know the client.

Heather S.

star

Choosing Capri College was one of the best decisions I've ever made. From day one, I felt supported and encouraged to grow-not just as a stylist, but as a person. The instructors pushed me to believe in myself, refine my skills, and step outside of my comfort zone. I graduated feeling confident, prepared, and excited to start my career. Capri will always hold a special place in my heart.

Addy S.

star

Capri College has given me confidence in my ability that I will own forever. My favorite part of the program was the hands-on learning. The fast-paced nature of the program was challenging, but it has prepared me for my career as a Massage Therapist.

Jared M.

What Can an Esthetician Do?

A licensed esthetician could pursue a number of interesting careers. For example, estheticians could work in a professional spa as a spa therapist, or they could be a spa owner. They could work as a cruise ship or resort spa professional, helping people look and feel their best when they are on vacation. Some estheticians choose to focus on makeup, working as a makeup artist in a spa, in the entertainment industry, or for fashion shows. They could also be a makeup artist for special occasions, such as weddings. Some estheticians may partner with a dermatologist. With additional education, they could become an esthetics educator at a beauty school.

Capri College offers accredited programs that are designed to meet the industry’s current demands. We prepare students to take the State Exam, and many graduates go on to do the work they love to do. Although we cannot guarantee employment after graduation, we do everything we can to help students find a job.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Esthetics Program

How much does it cost to become an esthetician?

Our esthetics program costs a total of $11,625. Tuition and fees is $9,685, and equipment, books, and uniforms cost $1,940.

How long does it take to complete the esthetics program?

The esthetics program is a 600-hour program that takes as little as 26 weeks to complete. Esthetic students can expect to spend 21-28 hours per week at school. Schedules vary by location and may include evenings.

How do students become licensed estheticians?

Professional licensing is possible by completing the esthetics program and then taking Iowa’s licensing exam. Our curriculum is designed to prepare students to sit for the State Exam.

We know that beauty training is about more than a certificate to hang on the wall. We want you to be in a career that you love, and we are dedicated to supporting you as you work toward that goal. Experienced Career Services professionals are happy to help students pursue employment opportunities.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. You can find out what you qualify for by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Call us at 1-800-728-7222 to speak to a Financial Aid advisor, who could help explain more financing options.

Take Control of Your Future

  • Are you ready to learn more about skincare and makeup? See our admissions requirements as you take the first step in our enrollment process:
  • Submit a completed application form and $100 fee.
  • Visit the campus of choice and complete a pre-admissions interview.
  • Submit a high school diploma, high school transcript, or GED/HiSET certificate.
  • Submit a copy of a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID.

You can try a beauty school education for two weeks before fully committing to the program. Contact us to schedule your campus tour or request more enrollment information.

instagram@capricollegecr

Bright + blended🤍✨
••
#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #dimensionalhair #blendedhighlights
••
By the.megan.effect
☀️Hot girl summer? Glowing skin summer? Smooth skin summer? We support them all✨

Our June specials are serving major savings!

💓BOGO 1/2 off ALL waxing services with our cosmetology students 

✨$5 OFF chemical exfoliation and microderms with our Esti’s

🛍️Buy 2 products, get 1 FREE

Get pampered, save some money, and leave feeling fabulous. June only! 🌸

📞Book your appointment now!
fun hair Friday! 🩷🩵💜
••
#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #FunHairFriday #funhair
••
By hairby.natalierenea
🐈🐅🐆
••
#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #calicohair #trendyhair
••
By styled.by.kallie

 

instagram@capricollegedav

A big Capri Family Welcome to our May 2026 nail tech class! They are on the clinic and ready to make your nail dreams come true!!

Call 563-388-6642 to book with them starting next week! 🎉💃🏻

#dowhatyoulove #BeautyCareer #capricollegedavenport #nailslove
Special effects makeup in action 🔥🩸

All FX makeup shown was created and performed by students under the supervision of a licensed instructor. The blood and injuries are completely fake — just creativity, talent, and hands-on learning! 🎨✨
.
Makeup by Morgan S.
.
#HairSchool #CosmetologySchool #BeautyCareer #capricollegedavenport #dowhatyoulove #yesss
Life’s too short for one-dimensional hair ✨
.
.
Hair by Paige N.
.
#CosmetologySchool #capricollegedavenport #BeautyCareer #dowhatyoulove #HairSchool
Embracing her inner mermaid! 🧜‍♀️ 
.
.
Special effects makeup by Maddy H
.
#dowhatyoulove #CosmetologySchool #capricollegedavenport #BeautyCareer #vibesofvisuals

 

instagram@capricollegedubuque

Relax. Restore. Rejuvenate. ✨

A hot stone massage helps ease muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. The soothing warmth of the stones allows your body and mind to unwind, leaving you feeling balanced and refreshed 🖤

•

#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #hotstonemassage #futuremassagetherapist
Color outside the lines—and wear it proudly ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🌈

Student work by @intensitysbyalex 

•

#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #rainbowhair #studentwork #futurecosmetologist
One of the best parts of the beauty industry is the creativity it allows 🤩
There are no limits when it comes to creating a look that reflects your personality, style, and vision. From bold transformations to soft, natural enhancements, the possibilities are truly endless 🎨

•

#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #futureesthetician #studentwork
Want fuller, fluffier, and more defined brows? Brow lamination helps smooth and reshape brow hairs, creating a lifted, polished look that lasts for weeks! 👀
✔️ Creates the appearance of fuller brows
✔️ Tames unruly or coarse hairs
✔️ Enhances your natural brow shape
✔️ Low-maintenance beauty routine
✔️ Gives a sleek, lifted finish
Wake up with brows that are ready to go 🤍

Student work by @esthe.ticsbysophie

•

#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #studentwork #futureesthetician

 

instagram@capricollegewaterloo

Proof that opposites look better together 
•
•
Hair by Katie T.
We love dimension 🤎
•
•
Hair by Dalaney S.
These volume lashes are giving bold, fluffy & flawless 🖤 
•
•
Done By Cassie N.
Brows that speak for themselves 😍
•
•
Done by Natalie K.
Need a pick me up? Stop by our student leadership energy drink bar during your appointment! ☀️

our locations

Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids

2945 Williams Parkway S.W.

Cedar Rapids, IA. 52404

Admissions: 1.319.364.1541

Davenport

Davenport

2540 E. 53rd Street
Davenport, IA 52807

Admissions: 1.563.388.6642

Dubuque

Dubuque

395 Main Street
Dubuque, IA 52001

Admissions: 1.563.588.2379

Waterloo

Waterloo

2323 Crossroads Blvd.
Waterloo, IA 50702

Admissions: 1.319.234.2600