For those skin care professionals who are constantly wanting to learn more about their field and the specialties within it, post-graduate education may be the answer. After finishing an aesthetic program and finding a placement or opening a spa, it is necessary to consider looking into more advanced education and training in order to further one’s career path. Post-graduate education is an easy way for professionals to seek out higher learning in specific areas of interest. Post-graduate courses are offered at many levels and can include an assortment of study areas.

BENEFITS

The benefits of advanced training are vast, allowing the skin care professional to not only narrow their practice, but also become the ultimate expert within their field of choice. Many skin care professionals turn to post-graduate education because it allows them to expand upon the subjects they studied while obtaining their aesthetic license. From classes that focus on laser, waxing, and medical aesthetics to chemical peels, paramedical aesthetics, dermaplaning, and more, a skin care professional can broaden their horizons and widen their expertise, and, in so doing, add this education to their resume and title, making them more desirable to hiring spas and other practitioners.

QUESTIONS TO KEEP IN MIND

When selecting the right school or higher learning center for post-graduate education, it is important to look at what the school offers. Examine what ways post-graduate education can benefit you – how will it provide a deeper understanding and what additional skills will it bring to the table?

Do they offer only one specific training and education course, or do they offer a variety of options? How hands-on is the training? Is the educational facility accredited?

 It is also important to find out if the advanced training will ensure a certification, what testing options it provides, and the amount of time the class will require. Other questions to consider when choosing a post-graduate educational course are the cost and educator. How much is the cost of the course and the examination? What is the time frame for completing the training? How long has the educator been in the business and do they have good rapport with other industry professionals? These are all necessary factors and questions to consider when searching for a reputable learning facility. As always, remember to look for reviews and recommendations from other skin care professionals before choosing a post-graduate educational course.

STATE REQUIREMENTS

Another important factor when considering post-graduate education is whether or not it is required by the state. Some states require aesthetic professionals to take continuing education courses in order to maintain their licensure. Be sure to find out if this applies, as the state may have recommended post-graduate education options, as well.

AN INVESTMENT

Post-graduate education is an investment that will not only bring about many benefits to the skin care professional but is also an investment in the future. The more a professional can learn, the more options and career paths they can choose from. Seeking out a niche market of the field can be a skin care professional’s way to truly make it in the business. By investing time, money, and dedication, a skin care professional can create value for themselves and their clients. It also shows the surrounding community and potential clients that the professional has spent time in the industry learning more than just the basics.

Lastly, skin care professionals should strive to continue their education no matter how big or small the post-graduate course may be. Continuing education is the most efficient and active way for skin care professionals to stay relevant and on-trend with the treatments clients need and want.