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
From beginner to advanced techniques
Hands-on practice with real clients
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
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
Work at spas or salons a Nail technicians
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.
We’re thrilled to share the inspiring story of Nanami Noda,...
In today’s spotlight, we have…. Saho Tashimo! Saho just graduated from...
Congratulations Katie on landing a job at Angel Perfume and...
Congratulations Nina on landing a job in the beauty industry...
Colt Thomas graduated in 2009. He’s been a true success...
This time we are congratulating Amelia Stanowich for getting a...
Continuing the winning streak of our alumni, we now congratulate...
Congratulations to Seaira Keshane. She will be completing her program...
Congratulations to alumni Mariah Mitchell. She has successfully completed her...
Camila came to NIC with previous industry experience from Brazil....
New Image College graduate Kotomi Omori landed an awesome job...
Our spa grads just keep on doing us proud! This...
We’re thrilled to share the inspiring story of Nanami Noda,...
In today’s spotlight, we have…. Saho Tashimo! Saho just graduated from...
Congratulations Katie on landing a job at Angel Perfume and...
Congratulations Nina on landing a job in the beauty industry...
Colt Thomas graduated in 2009. He’s been a true success...
This time we are congratulating Amelia Stanowich for getting a...
Continuing the winning streak of our alumni, we now congratulate...
Congratulations to Seaira Keshane. She will be completing her program...
Congratulations to alumni Mariah Mitchell. She has successfully completed her...
Camila came to NIC with previous industry experience from Brazil....
New Image College graduate Kotomi Omori landed an awesome job...
Our spa grads just keep on doing us proud! This...
Upcoming start dates
2024
June
August
September
November
2025
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
Application Fee
International Application Fee: $250
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 doesn’t include a kit, students will be given a kit list to purchase on their own. 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.)
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.