Master Aesthetician
Degree Type
60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Code
10-502-1
Time to Degree
1.5 years
Start Date
January
How You'll Learn
On Campus
8-Week Courses
Daytime
Go beyond the basics of aesthetics by learning the skills and techniques needed to perform skin care services in medical settings. This program provides training in advanced skin treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion and various laser treatments. Train to work in plastic surgery, dermatology, medical spas and other medical environments.
Steps to Complete the Master Aesthetician Program
Apply and Become Admitted as a Pre-Core Student
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee. This program is only open to in-state residents.
- Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading and writing skills:
- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.
WCTC follows a waitlist process for students admitted into this program. This program currently has a waitlist time of 1-2 years to start core program courses.
Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.
Before Program Start
- Meet the minimum placement testing requirements to enter core courses by the first Monday in October to be considered for core courses starting in spring.
- Review the Frequently Asked Questions.
- Attend a mandatory Master Aesthetician student orientation. Check your WCTC email for day, time and location.
Students who receive a seat in the Master Aesthetician program will be notified via email with instructions on how to register for core program courses.
Note: Students who do not completed this requirement will be dropped from courses and moved back to Core-Ready status.
After Program Completion
After completion of the first year of core progam courses, you may register for the next regularly scheduled Wisconsin State Licensing Exam for Aestheticians. The exam consists of both written and practical components and costs approximately $400. Upon successful completion of these exams, you will be authorized to practice aesthetics in the State of Wisconsin.
- To take the state licensing exam, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a high school graduate or have attained high school graduation equivalency.
- Be able to obtain a Social Security Number.
- Complete a background check. Convictions of crimes or pending charges may be grounds for denial of license if the circumstances of the conviction or charge are substantially related to professional practice.
- Visit https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Aesthetician for additional information.
- You are required to obtain licensing within one year of completing the first year of core progam courses.
Program Details
Contact Us
Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.
Potential Careers
If you’re a good communicator, have an interest in skin care and enjoy working with people to help them look and feel their best, a career as an aesthetician may be for you. Aestheticians perform a variety of services – from facials to laser hair removal to body wraps and much more. Those working in medical settings apply treatments under the supervision of medical professionals.
- Aesthetician
- Skin Care Specialist
- Paramedical Aesthetician
- Oncology Aesthetician
- Makeup Artist
High School Eligibility
This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Please note:
- To take the state licensing exam, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a high school graduate or have attained high school graduation equivalency.
- You are required to obtain licensing within one year of completing this program.
- Occasional overnight travel to trade shows is optional but beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Master Aesthetician program.
Career Salaries
$30,300 - $53,300 annually, plus commission and tip opportunities
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Lightcast. Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements. Find our graduates' entry wages in the most recent Graduate Success Report.
Financial Aid
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
What Makes This Program Unique
- This program is the first of its kind in the Wisconsin Technical College System. Students are trained to perform aesthetic services in salon, spa and medical settings.
- Learn in a hands-on environment by servicing guests in WCTC's Style & Class Salon and Spa and Aesthetics Lab.
- Train in chemical exfoliation, IPL hair removal, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, chemical peels, micro-blading and lash extensions while in the program.
Similar Programs
More Credit Opportunities
High School Dual Credit
Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.
Transfer Opportunities After WCTC
WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.