Cosmetology, Massage, Barbering & Esthiology School - East Lansing
The East Lansing Difference
Our People
Our Educators are always standing by, providing feedback and guidance on everything from styling and color to retailing, product knowledge and home-care recommendations.
- Jean, has been teaching for 25 years and started our Esthiology program in 1997 when it became a license
- Beth, an Esthetician (and part-time techie), has spent five years in our Spa and transferred here as an Educator to offer her practical knowledge and guide students
- Our educator Brandon has a mom who owns an Aveda salon in Grand Rapids and is very motivating and inspiring to the students.
- Cady hosts a YouTube channel, inspiring and informing others with her makeup tips and product reviews
- Our color expert, Jacob, has prepared models for many photo shoots, including one in Detroit with Ryan Cotton
- Piper, resident hair-design guru, has worked with Vivienne Mackinder in Developing Mastery and trained with the Aveda professional team numerous times
- Kasey has created a reputation for specializing in men’s cuts
Our Place
- A massive 80-seat salon allows students ample room to learn and work
- Three full classrooms
- Historic multi-level space with spiral staircase
- Atrium in lower level
- True spa environment for our Esthiology program
- Day and evening classes offered in Cosmetology and Esthiology
Cosmetology Curriculum
Cosmetology is taught in an educationally progressive environment, emulating a high-end salon setting. To start, you’ll be in our classroom, receiving instructional education with our Educators providing guidance all along the way. Once you’re ready, you’ll train on the student clinic floor, interacting with a diversity of guests. Because we want you to be successful, we give you all the support you need, every step of the way. Our Educators work side-by-side with you, offering guidance and training while you work and gain real hands-on experience.
Cosmetology program features:
- 1,500 hour program
- Preparation for state board exam
- Full-time (11 months) and part-time (15 months) schedules available
Barbering Curriculum
At Douglas J, Barbering is taught in an educationally progressive environment emulating a traditional barbershop setting. Many communities have seen a recent revival of the urban barbershop, which continues to build demand for barbers. Licensed barber educators work side-by-side with you, offering guidance and training while you gain real hands-on experience and master your craft.
Barbering program features:
- 1,500 hour program
- Many financial aid options (VA Benefits, Pell Grants, & Scholarships)
- Access to the Aveda network, connecting you with real career opportunities
Massage Therapy Curriculum
In our massage therapy program, you’ll learn how to create wellness and healing through the power of touch. You’ll study the sciences of anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology, as well as the aroma experience and spa treatments. You’ll also learn reflexology and the ancient philosophy of Ayurveda, along with the latest in spa treatments, total wellness and body care. From classroom learning to hands-on workshops to our spa, we ensure you master the massage skills required to take the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEX) and launch a career as a massage therapist.
Massage Therapy program features:
- 625 hour program
- Preparation for MBLEX state exam
- Full-time (4 months) and part-time (5.5 months) schedules available
Esthiology Curriculum
In this full or part-time program, you move through Intro and Senior Theory, studying high-touch, high-tech techniques to purify, balance and renew the skin — the foundation of aesthetic beauty. Through hands-on training, you’ll work on mannequins, live models and then graduate to the student clinic spa interacting closely with guests. You also learn extensive business-building skills and wellness therapies, providing the training you need for a successful career as a licensed esthetician.
Esthiology program features:
- 750 hour program
- Preparation for state board exam
- Daytime (5 months) and Evening (7 months) schedules available
Take a Virtual Tour of our East Lansing School
Opened in 1986 and hailed as our flagship location and Douglas J Aveda Headquarters, our East Lansing Institute sits in the heart of Michigan State’s campus, only miles away from the State Capital and our first salon. You’ll find us next to Jackson National Life Student Center known as “Jackson Zone” in the Jacobson’s retail store that still holds the original spiral staircase. We’re also deeply involved in our community and collaborate with many local charities including Hidden Key Fashion Show put on by The AITCH Foundation. Contact us or call us at (877) 311-8957 to schedule a tour!
