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Program Details

Cosmetology is Where Creativity Meets Design

Study hair, nail, makeup, and facial techniques — then put them into practice in a working student salon under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. Our Cosmetology Program, offered exclusively at our Atlanta Buckhead campus, combines technical skill-building with the business training you need to launch a real career in the beauty industry.

  • State-licensed & CIDESCO-aligned
  • Financial aid available to those who qualify
  • Proudly supports military-affiliated and international students
  • Professional-grade tools and industry-leading brands
  • Dedicated instructors who build your technical skills and professionalism

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Cosmetology Program

Program at a Glance

01
Hair Design

Hair Design

Learn how to cut and shape hair with a variety of techniques.
02
Advanced Color

Advanced Color

Use bleach and other chemical treatments to color hair.
03
Skincare & Makeup

Skincare & Makeup

Learn basic facials, makeup, waxing, and hair removal techniques.
04
Nails

Nails

Offer manicure and pedicure services to clients.
05
Theory & State Law

Theory & State Law

Study cosmetology theory and state law.
06
Business & Clinic Practice

Business & Clinic Practice

Practice client care on a real salon floor.
07
Texture & Styling

Texture & Styling

Learn perms, relaxers, blowouts, and thermal styling with professional irons.
08
Basic Barbering

Basic Barbering

Build clipper, razor, and shaver skills for barbering services.
09
Scalp & Hair Treatments

Scalp & Hair Treatments

Analyze hair and scalp conditions and perform corrective treatments.
10
Infection Control

Infection Control

Follow EPA and OSHA standards to keep every tool and station client-safe.

Career Outcomes

Envision Your Future Career As a Cosmetologist

Our program gives you a strong foundation in both core and advanced cosmetology skills, along with the professional polish employers look for. You’ll build your portfolio, train in a real-world salon environment, and receive job placement support including resume preparation and employer connections upon graduation.

  • Salon owner or manager
  • Cosmetologist in a Salon
  • Celebrity stylist
  • Brand representative
  • Hair Stylist or Colorist

Our Cosmetology Program

Why Choose Elaine Sterling Institute?

Beyond State Requirements

We provide education that aligns with industry trends and goes beyond the State Board of Cosmetology expectations.

Industry Tools & Tech

Train with real salon systems like Vish color management, along with industry-leading brands like Redken, Mizani, and Pulp Riot.

Real Salon Experience

Students will have the opportunity to explore many different hands-on aspects that will give them a critical advantage in the Beauty & Salon Industry.

Hybrid + Traditional Schedules

Our Cosmetology Program is available as a traditional on-campus program or as a hybrid option, where students complete theory online through CIMA by Milady.

Career & Business Support

Access a wide range of academic and career enhancement opportunities. We offer Qnity, an online financial literacy course for beauty professionals.

Financial Aid

Flexible financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships available for qualified students.

Awards & Accreditations

Proudly accredited by the Council on Occupational Education and recognized as a CIDESCO School, Elaine Sterling Institute has spent 18 years shaping Atlanta’s beauty and wellness professionals, a proud recipient of the 2024 Golden School Award.

See What Our Students Have To Say

Lisa Easton

Elaine Sterling has not only been a great instructor, but has continued to lead her students. I now own a medical spa and Elaine continues to provide guidance and clinical advice for me. I appreciate and admire her ambition in this field and look forward to her continued support.

Lisa Easton

Natasha Harvey

I have really enjoyed Ms. Gina's online class! She is an awesome teacher and breaks down the material for comprehensive and does not overwhelm.

Natasha Harvey

Cher Clark

Elaine, it was my pleasure to get to know you and have you as my mentor during my time as your student during my introduction to esthetics. Without your expertise and approval I may not have had the confidence I needed to face such a major career change. Thank you so much!

Cher Clark

Marisa Costigan

I am really glad I took the laser class offered at The Elaine Sterling Institute. Elaine’s school is very nice & professional. Tony Stanfill is an excellent instructor and she is very thorough in teaching laser safety and education. I thought there was plenty of hands on experience with the different lasers. After taking the class, I got offered a position at a dermatology practice.

Marisa Costigan

Janice Laster

Just wanted to touch base with you and say thank you so much for your classes at TIEGA!! EVERYONE LOVED YOU!!! You are a wonderful educator, knowledgeable and entertaining, especially in the way you teach!! We are looking forward to the GACTE Conference in July! Take care and again thank you very much!

Janice Laster

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is tuition for this program?

Tuition for the Cosmetology program is $19,500. The fee for the kit, books, and supplies is $3,968. Total cost is $23,468.

Tuition for the hybrid online Cosmetology Program is the same.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. You can begin the financial aid process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). We also offer tuition payment plans. Let us know if you have any questions about paying for your beauty education.

Is there a part-time schedule?

Yes, we offer a part-time schedule that meets in the evenings and on Saturdays.

What is the weekly class schedule?

Students in the full-time program attend Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm.

Students in the part-time evening program attend Tuesday through Thursday, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and every Saturday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

How long does the cosmetology program take to complete?

Full-time students could complete the program in as little as thirteen months.

Do both school campuses offer cosmetology?

Cosmetology is only offered at our Atlanta Buckhead campus. Our Dunwoody campus is home to programs like Esthetics, Massage Therapy, and Nail Care.

What is included in the student kit?

Cosmetology students receive the following items:

  • Apple iPad
  • Milady Cosmetology textbooks
  • Milady CIMA access
  • Beautista account
  • Qnity Financial Literacy platform access
  • Prosper U Fast Track business curriculum
  • Vitality Project
  • State Board Exam Prep portal access
  • Cosmetology Mannequin Heads
  • ESI Jacket
  • Cosmetology Case
  • Cosmetology styling tools
  • Elaine Sterling Skincare
  • Makeup Forever Cosmetics makeup
  • Makeup application kit
  • State Board Kit
  • Client protective wear

Student kits are subject to change.

Get Started

How to Enroll in Our Cosmetology Program

Ready for a cosmetology education that supports you from start to finish?

As you explore your educational options at Elaine Sterling Institute, we encourage you to consider our admissions requirements:

  • Age 17 or older
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid government ID
  • Additional docs for VA, international, or M1 visa when applicable

Contact us to begin your enrollment journey! We can help answer your questions, guide you through the admissions process, talk to you about financial aid, and set up a personal tour of our campus.

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