Nail Technician Co-Op

Expand your skill set and express your talent through nail art

Nail Technician Co-Op

Expand your skill set and express your talent through nail art

Explore the techniques, creativity and business of nail art

Our NIC Certified Nail Technicians have garnered a reputation of being the most capable, well-trained, and professional artists in the field. Our success lies in the program encompassing structure and its emphasis on practical learning.

Our training is designed to have you working upon graduation. Throughout this four and half months intensive certification, you will learn the art of spa manicures and pedicures, including paraffin, exfoliating scrubs, hot oil, and hot stone massage techniques.

Project-based learning

To be NIC Certified means that you are prepared to work at all varieties of Salons. Upon graduation, you have extensively trained in acrylic and gel applications, detailed airbrushing, nail shaping techniques, acrylic nail art and more.

From beginner to advanced techniques

The comprehensive program starts with fundamental concepts such as the understanding of physiology and builds upon each module to achieve the latest and most advanced nail art techniques.

Hands-on practice with real clients

After learning each technique, students are able to perform nail services and get real-life experience with real clients at NIC Spa.

Live, study and work in Canada with a co-op program

Start your career in esthetics with the co-op work period and gain professional experience in the industry while experiencing the exciting city of Vancouver.

Program Overview

A comprehensive training under the mentorship of experienced instructors

The Nail Technician program is extensively designed for the student to be ready to work upon completion. Upon successful completion of this module, students will be capable of offering flawless manicure and pedicure services.

In the process of learning how to provide these services professionally, students will learn techniques such as nail shaping, thorough cuticle work, exfoliation, hand, arm, foot and leg massage along with the perfect polish application.

Students will learn how to use professional tools to provide these services effectively and safely such as nippers, e-files, lamps and gel polish products. The polish will be applied in a variety of ways, from regular to gel, and will include French tips and beautiful nail art combining amazing techniques for drawing and decorating the nail.

The nail students will be able to work with a variety of materials including gold leaf and gemstones, magnetic and spider gel polish, pigments, and a wide range of tools that will inspire them and develop their creativeness. These tools will allow them to create gorgeous and unique designs. Students will also be able to enhance their client’s nails using a variety of gel products and techniques, including hard gel, Polygel, and Ge-X (Apres).

They will also learn the appropriate techniques for finishing a set of acrylic nails and become familiar with the techniques involved in drilling and buffing the nails to achieve the final shape.

Industry-leading instructors

NIC’s teachers are actively working in the industry, providing students with the most up-to-date knowledge. Their experience will guide you in building a successful career.

Project-based learning

NIC’s practical approach to learning gives the students the opportunity to apply and validate the theory they just learned, reinforcing each lesson in-depth. While working on your project you will be guided and receive essential feedback to improve and achieve higher levels each time.

A program crafted to nurture your passion and talent for nail art

Over the last decade, the phenomenal demand for Nail Bars and Salons has seen an explosion in the need for certified Nail Technicians, as this industry has expanded to over 20 billion dollars worldwide. The opportunities are endless as NIC’s Nail programs offer complete training in fundamentals, techniques, art and business.

Work at spas or salons a Nail technicians

​NIC’s Nail Technicians are recognized for their high level of professionalism and valuable service.

Own or manage a salon/spa

Whether you want to start an at-home business or manage a professional salon, our program englobes the business side of Nail art, providing students with the tools and knowledge to manage a profitable business.

Courses Included

NIC’s Nail Technician curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training and enable students to perform a wide range of services at top level.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be competent in providing a stunning manicure and pedicure service. Students will learn the process of these services including shaping the nails, thorough cuticle work and a perfect polish application. This course teaches the students how to take care of the client’s cuticle and nail plate properly and safely through the common practice of nippers. The polish application will range from regular to gel, including French tips and amazing nail art. Students will have the opportunity to use various mediums such as gold leaf and gemstones, magnetic gel polish, and much more for their beautiful and creative designs. They will also learn how to relax, nourish, and hydrate the client’s skin through various massage products and techniques. The knowledge and techniques learned will help when customizing treatments per the client’s needs. They will gain a comprehensive understanding of paraffin wax and hot stone treatments. The successful student will also have a comprehensive understanding of facial and fingertips/toes waxing.

 

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have learned the proper techniques required in completing a set of Acrylic nails. This will include product knowledge and techniques on how to effectively build up and shape the artificial nails using acrylic monomer and polymer on tips and forms. Students will be familiar with the techniques involved in drilling and buffing the nails to create the final shape. They will also have the ability to create 3D nail art using acrylic as well as advanced 2D nail art techniques. As with the Gel module, students will hone their skill with the NIC´s Russian manicure technique and gel polish.

 

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the ability to enhance the client’s nails through a variety of Gel products and techniques such as Hard Gel, Poly Gel and Gel X (Après). The student will be able to identify the client’s needs and use the proper techniques and products to achieve the result. This would include the use of a particular Gel product with tips and forms. This course will further develop the student’s skills pertaining to the maintenance and care of the cuticle and nail plate through the highly sought after NIC’s Russian manicure technique. Students will be versed in safely shaping the nail using a nail drill and files. Students will then complete the look with gel polish and will have the ability to add a creative flare by use of 2D and 3D nail art. This technique can be used to customize and bring personality to the client’s nails.

Students will also learn all aspects of creating a professional resume, being fully prepared when applying for jobs, as well as learning integral interviewing skills that will prepare them for commonly asked questions they may get from a future employer. By the end of this module, the student will have a full understanding of how to own and operate a salon and manage a schedule. This includes managing a budget and marketing. They will also learn how to up-sell services and retail products.

The Co-Op is a unique opportunity for qualified students to practice and apply their skills in the beauty industry in Canada as well as to strengthen their language, trade, and work-related skills with a Canadian employer. Students will also acquire practical knowledge of the industry and complete monthly attendance and progress reports. In order to successfully complete the program and obtain the Nail Technician Co-Op diploma it is essential that students complete the Co-Op term as an integral part of their program of study.

 

Learn fundamental concepts and advanced techniques

Create 2D and 3D nail art

Perform acrylic and gel nail art

Explore your creativity through a variety of techniques

Have a full understanding of product chemistry

Learn about business ownership and management

Understand the importance of consultation

Learn how to use professional tools effectively and safely

Our Faculty

NIC’s Esthetics faculty is composed of talented, industry-working professionals who will guide you through your educational journey and help you build a successful career.

Success Stories

Check some of the success stories from NIC’s Nail programs alumni.

Upcoming start dates

2024
February
March
May
June
August
September
November

Program Requirements

At least 19 years of age or have a high school diploma.

Completion of Student Application Form and Admissions Questionnaire (by paper or online)

Domestic students must also pass the New Image Written English Assessment Test and Domestic Verbal English Assessment Test. Student must have zero #1 mark and no more than one #2.

International students must also pass with a mark of 25/30 both the New Image Written English Assessment Test and Verbal English Assessment Test.

Program Duration

800 hours – 40 weeks

This program has been approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

Admissions & Tuition

From our experience, we understand that each student has different needs in their education and also in their financial planning. Our Admissions Representatives are prepared to guide you through our payment options and what is best for you. Get in touch to schedule a Zoom appointment and discuss.

The tuition fee includes the Nail Technician Kit (valued at $900). Students are given limitless use of supplies and products to work on each other during the practical portions of the modules that they are attending at the time. The tuition fee doesn’t include basic school supplies (pens, pencils, highlighters, sharpeners, erasers, white-out, tape, scissors, binders, paper, etc.)

Application Fee

International Application Fee: $250

Tuition Fee

International Tuition Fee: $8,950

Ready to apply?

Applying to your favourite school for a career you have always dreamed of is exciting! A New Image advisor is just an email or phone call away to assist you with questions and help make the process achievable. Your application is assessed by the people that will be there every step of the way during your education journey and have your best interests in mind.

Please select the program date, review the admission requirements and fill out the form at the Application Centre. A New Image representative will be calling you to get to know you better and discuss your goals, expectations, admissions and registration procedures within 48 hours.

Application Process

Apply Online

Check the program information and go through the program details, courses included, and tuition fees. Then fill out your application on NIC's Application Centre

Let's Talk

Upon receiving your application, one of our admissions representatives will reach out to you to schedule a Zoom call. We will discuss details regarding your program, tuition payment options and any question you might have.

Confirming your enrolment

We will provide you the documentation to confirm your enrolment and require an initial payment to reserve your seat for your chosen start date.

Get ready for school

This is your time to get organised! Use this period to coordinate your living arrangements, explore Vancouver and set up your route for your educational journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check below the most frequently asked questions about this program. If you have any further questions, feel free to get in touch with us.

Students will learn a variety of nail art designs inclusive of: ombre, spider gel and cat eye, flowers, water drops effect, mirror effect, tribal and geometric shapes/lines. Students also learn how to incorporate foil, stones, and gems into their designs.

The Nail Kit included in your tuition provides a all tools and equipment that you need to perform services and apply skills learned in class. On your first day of class, you will receive your kit alongside a list to checkmark that you have received all products. Students are required to bring their kits to the school daily during classes.

Yes, the instruction provided and the diploma you achieve once you successfully complete the program prepare you well-enough to open your own business.

All students are expected to practice their skills with your classmates and to make themselves available for your classmates to practice on. Once you are skilled, you will have the opportunity to practice on real clients through the NIC Spa.

Yes! This is one of the many great things about the Nail Technician program. Students are encouraged to practice their learned skills on real clients through our student spa located inside the campus. You will be booked with real clients giving you the full hands-on experience and preparing you for your future in the industry.

Yes, New Image College allows students to pay for tuition on a monthly basis, interest free. Talk to your Program Advisor to arrange a payment plan that suits your financial budget.

The Beauty Council’s Certification is an qualification exam that earns you the internationally recognized Certified Cosmetology Professional (CCP) designation. This credential demonstrates your expertise and the professional standard of your services to clients, employers and peers, standing apart from untrained workforce in the industry.

Upon completion of the Nail Technician Program will make you eligible to apply for the Beauty Council’s Certificate of Qualification in Nail Technology.