How progress is evaluated
- Written exams
- Practical exams
- Clinic performance
- Instructor observation
Minimum passing grade: 75%
All programs
Nail technology
300-Hour Nail Technology Program
Build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed for professional nail services, from sanitation and nail health to manicures, pedicures, acrylic, gel, nail art, and client care.
At a glance
Know the commitment before you begin
- Training hours
- 300
- Approx. full-time length
- 10–12 weeks
- Class days, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Mon · Wed · Fri
- Practical clinic training
- 180 hours
- State board preparation
- 30 hours
What you’ll learn
The curriculum, step by step
Four training stages move from professional foundations into theory, hands-on clinic work, and focused preparation for Nebraska’s licensing examination.
Module 1 Orientation 10 hours
Get familiar with the school, the profession, and the safety expectations that guide every service.
Topics and skills
- School policies
- Nebraska state laws and rules
- Professional conduct and workplace expectations
- Safety procedures and infection control
- Sanitation standards
- Student kit introduction
Module 2 Theory Instruction 80 hours
Build the science, safety, service, and business knowledge behind professional nail care.
Infection control & safety
20 hrs- Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and bloodborne pathogens
- Cross-contamination prevention, sanitation, and disinfection
- OSHA standards and client safety procedures
Nail anatomy & physiology
10 hrs- Nail structure, growth, disorders, and diseases
- Skin structure of the hands and feet
- Healthy versus unhealthy nails and when to refuse service
Chemistry & nail products
10 hrs- Polish, acrylic, and gel systems
- Nail adhesives and product ingredients
- Safe product handling
Business & professional development
10 hrs- Client consultation and customer service
- Retail sales, professional ethics, and salon operations
- Communication and clientele building
Nebraska law & regulations
10 hrs- Nebraska cosmetology laws
- Sanitation regulations and inspection rules
- Licensing requirements and written-exam preparation
Nail techniques theory
20 hrs- Manicure and pedicure procedures
- Artificial and gel nails
- Nail art fundamentals
Module 3 Practical Clinic Training 180 hours
Practice complete services on mannequins and live clients in a supervised student-clinic environment.
Basic manicure
40 hrs- Nail shaping and cuticle care
- Polish application
- Hand massage
Pedicure
40 hrs- Foot soaking, nail trimming, and callus care
- Massage techniques
- Sanitation procedures
Artificial nails
50 hrs- Acrylic application
- Nail tips and forms
- Fills, rebalances, and safe removal
Gel nails
20 hrs- Gel overlays
- Builder gel
- Gel polish
Nail art & design
10 hrs- Nail art fundamentals
- Simple designs
- Embellishments
Client services & clinic floor
20 hrs- Client consultation
- Service execution
- Sanitation and customer care
Module 4 State Board Preparation 30 hours
Review knowledge and demonstrate the practical competencies needed for the licensing process.
Topics and skills
- Written-exam review
- Sanitation demonstration
- Mock state board testing
- Manicure and acrylic application competency
- Sanitation and infection-control competency
Progress and completion
What success looks like
Graduation requirements
- Complete all 300 training hours
- Demonstrate required practical competencies
- Complete the final exam
Tools you’ll train with
- Manicure tables and pedicure spa chairs
- UV/LED lamps and electric files
- Sanitation equipment
Example student kit
- Manicure and cuticle tools
- Acrylic brush
- Files, buffers, and nail tips
- Sanitation supplies
Kit contents are examples and may change.
Program outcome
A clear path toward nail licensure
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion – Nail Technology Program and are eligible to apply for the Nebraska Nail Technician License Examination. The program objective is to develop the skills to perform professional nail services, follow sanitation standards, prepare for the licensing examination, and begin a career in the nail industry.
Curriculum information reflects the school’s current program outline and may be updated. Graduates are eligible to apply for the applicable Nebraska licensing examination; completion does not itself confer licensure.