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.

You get an introduction to clinical application of certain skills, such as airbrush makeup, facials, massage, and hair removal treatments. You’ll also focus 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.

See What Our Students Have To Say

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.
  • 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

✂️ Cuts That Give Back 💗

From October 12–16, every haircut at Capri College will help support the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital! 🏥💛
And to make an even bigger impact, Capri College will match the total amount raised! 

So come in, freshen up your look, and help us make a difference—one haircut at a time. ✨

📞 Call 319-364-1541 to schedule your appointment or stop in to donate!

Every cut counts. Every donation matters. 💕
💜Fun-Hair-Friday🩷
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#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #prettyhair #FunHairFriday #pinkhair
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By glow.with.halie
Competition styling! 

Theme: Hollywood Horror

🕷️🎥🩸🖤
Something about a rich, warm brunette in the fall…🍁😻
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#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #prettyhair #fallvibes #brownhair
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By styled.x.jennifer
LEAST favorite hair trend! 

⬇️drop yours in the comments⬇️

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styledbylafayette_

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#capricollege #iowabeautyschool #hairtrends #leastfavorite #cosmoschool

 

instagram@capricollegedav

Short, chic & serving ✂️✨ Nothing hits quite like a fresh bob. 🤍

Hair by Madi C

#hairtransformation #FreshHair #HairInspo #SalonFresh
Icy blonde ❄️💎

Hair by Jaida H

 #hairtransformation #blondes #blondespecialist
Bright, blended & beautifully blonde ✨🤍

Hair by Novalee

#BlondeHighlights #BlondeHair #FreshHighlights #DimensionalBlonde #BlondeGoals #HairTransformation #FreshHair
Calico hair, but make it ✨stunning✨ 🧡🤎🤍 The perfect mix of bold contrast, warm tones & dimensional color. Absolutely OBSESSED with how this turned out. 🔥

Hair by Chloe L

#CalicoHair #CalicoHairColor #DimensionalColor #HairInspo #HairTransformation

 

instagram@capricollegedubuque

Just a pop of purple 💜

Student work by @bolingbeauty

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#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #popofpurple #studentwork #futurecosmetologist
💅✨ Cheers to our June 2026 Nail Tech Class! ✨💅
We are so proud of everything this class has accomplished, and we loved celebrating their graduation! 🎓💖

We can’t wait to see where their talent, creativity, and passion take them next. Congratulations, graduates — your future is bright! ✨

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#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #futurenailtech #nailtechgraduate
Chocolate caramel dreams 🍫💭 

Student work by @bybelarose

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#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #fallhaircolor #cosmetologystudentwork
Lights off. Nails on. 🎬🩸💅

These scary Halloween movie-themed nails are bringing all the creepy, spooky, and slightly unhinged vibes to your fingertips 👻🔪🕷️
Because why just watch your favorite horror movies when you can wear the nightmares? 🖤🍿

Student work by @nailart_by.j

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#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #halloweennails🎃 #futurenailtech #nailtechstudent
The perfect warm, fall blonde ✨

Student work by @baileygracebeauty

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#dowhatyoulove #dowhatyouloveatcapri #capri #capricollege #capricollegedubuque #capridubuque #dubuqueiowa #warmfallblonde #fallblonde #studentwork

 

instagram@capricollegewaterloo

✂️💛 HAIRCUTS FOR A CAUSE 💛✂️

From October 12–16, we’re turning every haircut into an opportunity to give back!

Throughout the week, ALL proceeds from haircut services will be donated to University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. 🏥❤️

That means when you come in for a fresh cut, you’re not just treating yourself, you’re helping support children and families receiving care right here in Iowa.

📅 October 12–16
✂️ Book a haircut
💛 100% of haircut proceeds donated

Help us make a difference, one haircut at a time! Share this post, spread the word, and come see us during this special week. 💕

#ChildrensMiracleNetwork #SteadFamilyChildrensHospital #HaircutsForACause #GiveBack #SupportLocal #ForTheKids #CapriCollege
Help us welcome our September Massage Therapy class! Follow along as they work towards taking clients! ✨
O C T O B E R  S P E C I A L S 🍂🍄‍🟫
Twenty-five years later, we remember the lives lost, the heroes who ran toward danger, the families forever changed, and a nation that came together in the face of unimaginable tragedy. May we continue to honor their memories, hold their loved ones close in our hearts, and never forget the courage, sacrifice, and unity shown on September 11, 2001. ❤️🤍💙

9.11.2001 — Never Forget.

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