During the course of a typical nail technology degree module or degree you will learn how to discuss treatments, procedures and styles with clients; prep hands, feet and nails for manicures and pedicures; repair nail problems; groom nails; identify nail conditions; apply nail extensions and make nail art. Such a degree therefore equips you to be a capable and versatile nail technician who can excel in all situations you may encounter during your career. A good degree of this type will also teach you sound business sense.
The length of study for a nail technology degree depends on the region you're studying in and the type of degree. To learn nail technology within the context of the degree, it is common to do a cosmetology or salon management degree. The cosmetology or salon management degree is usually an associate's degree and takes 2 years, although the duration can be variable in some instances.
You can choose to study nail technology and other associated degrees at a career college such as Virginia College or Blue Cliff College or at a community college like Kirtland Community College, Maryland Community College or Saint Paul College. Beauty schools and specific nail technician schools tend to offer diplomas and certificates rather than degrees. If you are unable to physically attend school or you need flexibility in terms of time, institutions such as National American University and Minnesota School of Business offer on-line associate's degrees in cosmetology.
With a degree that includes some aspect of nail technology, there are a number of career areas you can specialize in. You might decide to be either a dedicated manicurist or pedicurist or you may opt for being a general nail technician. You could specifically become a nail artist. There are a number of settings where you can work, including beauty salons, spas, specialized nail salons and clients' homes. You could even work out of your own home.