Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our most frequently asked questions to gain a better understanding of our programs, policies, and offerings. If you don’t see the information you’re looking for, we’re here to help!
Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re happy to assist you on your journey to a successful career in Medical Aesthetics!
Why study Medical Aesthetics?
Traditional esthetics is no longer the only game in town! Medical Aesthetics is a rapidly growing field that allows advanced, medical-grade, and results-oriented treatments. With higer grade treatments, it is possible to expand your capabilities, book, and profit! This education can expand a professional's ability to be hired and allows them to work in additional settings like dermatologist's offices, plastic surgery centers, medspas, and more.
Can I make more money in Medical Aesthetics?
The short answer is yes! The field of Medical Aesthetics is rapidly growing, allowing advanced, medical-grade, and results-oriented treatments. With higer grade treatments, it is possible to expand your capabilities, book, and profit! For example, an esthetician can perform a wax for $20 or a laser treatment for $200 in the same time frame, allowing you to fill your book with higher-profiting services.
What is the difference between our program and others?
There are many programs and courses available. Many even have similar content to us, however, The Institute of Medical Aesthetics is the first and only Diploma Program of its kind to offer comprehensive Medical Aesthetics education. Unlike many other programs, we are held to the standards of the State Board of Private Licensed Schools and offer a diploma rather than a certificate of completion. In our program, you'll understand the science behind each and every treatment that you provide, preparing students for employment in the medical aesthetic space. Our program is similar to a traditional esthetics program or a college-level course. Each program consists of multiple classes that you must pass in order to complete the program and earn your diploma.
What is a Medical Director?
A medical director is a medical professional, usually a physician, that oversees the a healthcare facility. This is especially important in a medical spa because each oemployee works under the supervision and liability insurance of a medical director's license. A medical director is there in case of any medical emergency that may occur during treatment.
Do I need a Medical Director?
The short answer is yes. If you want to open your own medical spa or medical aesthetic practice, you are required by law to have a medical director. Laws may differ state to state regarding who may be a medical director or what those legal partnerships may look like. Consulting a an attorney is essential to ensuring you are setting up your business for success.
What does a typical day in the program look like?
Our programs are built to work around your scheudule, so it can absolutely depend! Our programs are online and asynchronous, meaning that you work at your own pace. These programs have no specific deadlines or due dates. The exception would be a for the in-person lab required for the Aesthetic Lasers Program or Combination Program. The in-person lab, requires you to come to our campus for the 8th week of your program.
Why do I need this program?
At IOMA, we believe that education is power and you can never stop learning. Currently, the laws and regulations regarding the field of Medical Aesthetics, however, there is a push for change. Having advanced training and education provides you with the skills needed to safely provide treatments to patients and clients. It also proves to lawmakers and regulators that estheticians are capable of providing these treatments.
Should I take the program if I am already certified?
A common misconception is that a certificate and a certification are the same. According to Forbes Magazine, a certificate is awarded after completing an academic program, while a certification is a professional credential earned through training or assessment. A certificate does not mean a Licensed Aesthetician is certified. Additionally, certificate courses can be taught by anyone, meaning some instructors may lack proper qualifications.
Do you work with financial aid?
Unfortunately, as of now, we do not work with FAFSA, although it is a goal of ours in the future! We do, however, offer customized payment plans.
Do you work with the GI Bill?
Unfortunately, as of now, we do not work with the GI Bill, although it is a goal of ours in the future! We do, however, offer customized payment plans.
Do I have to stay in Lancaster during the in-person lab week?
No, it is not required. We are just a few short blocks from the Amtrak station, an hour from Harrisburg, and less than two hours from Philadelphia. We do recommend staying in the area for our students that are traveling over two hours. We have partnered with local hotels and restaurants so that your stay in Lancaster is pleasant, organized, and easy!
Do I have be an esthetician to apply?
No, we accept estheticians, cosmetologists, medical assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assitants, and physicians. We do require proof of licensure during the application process.
Can I open my own business after this program?
The short answer is yes. If you want to open your own medical spa or medical aesthetic practice, you are required by law to have a medical director. Laws may differ state to state regarding who may be a medical director or what those legal partnerships may look like. Consulting an attorney is essential to ensuring you are setting up your business for success.
How long are IOMA's programs?
At IOMA, we offer 2 different programs with the option to combine them. Our Medical Aesthetics Program is 8 weeks (entirely online), our Aesthetics Lasers Program is 8 weeks (7 weeks online & 1 in person). If you decide to combine them, the program will take 10 weeks (9 weeks online one week in person).