Nail Foundations

Course code ESTH 1501

Credit 9.0

Length 200.0 hours

Course outline View

This course introduces students to the history, trends, and business career opportunities of the nail industry. Students learn personal/public hygiene and professionalism related in the salon and spa. This course covers diseases & disorders of the skin and nails, bacteriology, sterilization, sanitation and disinfection. Students are introduced to all aspects of physiology and anatomy and the related processes and systems of the nail and skin.

Students learn the foundation for manicuring, pedicuring and nail treatments. Areas explored include identifying various shapes of nails, specialized hand and nail treatments, specific massage techniques, nail polish and gel application using UV & LED light, and removing such products without causing damage to the natural nail.

Prerequisites

Course type

This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.

  • Introduction to Nail Technology
  • Safe Practices
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Hand & Nail Treatments
  • Foot & Nail Treatments
  • Soak Off Gel Nail Treatments

Challenge exam and/or portfolio. Contact the Department for details.

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
70601 September 2, 2026
to October 24, 2026
Lecture VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
40492 January 6, 2027
to February 27, 2027
Shop/Teaching Kitchen VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.

How to take this course

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Contact us

If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial.