Nail Technician

Why Nail Technician?

Nail technicians bring creativity, skill, and care to their clients, helping them look and feel their best. In this program, you’ll learn the art and science of professional nail care, including manicures, pedicures, nail design, and advanced techniques. With an emphasis on safety, sanitation, and customer service, you’ll gain the confidence and technical skill employers and clients value.

At Mid-State, you’ll train in a modern teaching salon designed to replicate professional environments. The program combines classroom learning with practical nail services experience and can be completed in just one semester. Graduates are prepared to meet industry standards and take the State of Wisconsin examination to become licensed manicurists.

Develop creativity, attention to detail, and strong customer-service skills.
Train in a supportive, cohort-based environment that builds community and confidence.
Complete the program in one semester for quick entry into the workforce.
Gain insight from experienced instructors with real salon ownership and industry expertise.
Students, staff, and the public can receive beauty and hair care services offered by The Salon at Mid-State on the Wisconsin Rapids Campus.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

11 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

Less Than One Year

Delivery Method

In Person

Location

Wisconsin Rapids

Start Dates

Fall, Spring

Estimated Program Cost

$3,148.06

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Not Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Gel & Acrylic Nail Specialist

Manicurist

Nail Artist

Nail Tech/Technician

Pedicurist

$34k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $33,700. Source: Lightcast Data Set

123

Average Monthly Hires

123 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

100%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Stacy Brock, BA
Stacy received a bachelor of arts degree in 2014 from Concordia University Wisconsin. She also received her technical diploma for Cosmetology in 1997. Stacy worked for a corporate salon in addition to owning her own salon before pursuing her teaching career. She is currently a full-time instructor and program director at Mid-State for the Cosmetology and Barber Technologist programs. She believes in hard work and is very dedicated to the cosmetology industry. She enjoys sharing her passion for the industry in the classroom.

“Work hard in silence and let your success make the noise.”

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Apply safety and sanitation procedures.
Adhere to the current Wisconsin administrative codes and statutes for cosmetology/manicurist licensing.
Demonstrate interpersonal skills for success.
Perform nail services.
Develop strategies to market products and services.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Licensure Info

This program prepares you for licensure to work in Wisconsin. If you plan to work in another state, be sure to check that state's licensure requirements—Mid-State's program may not meet them all. If you've applied to the program and have any questions about this information, talk to your advisor.

Licensure Information (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad