Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology
General Information — Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology
About (Overview)
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology is a private, for-profit cosmetology and beauty trade school located in Dalton, Georgia. With more than twenty years in operation and a combined instructional experience that the institution cites at over eighty years, the school aims to produce “salon ready” graduates in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and instructor training. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning in salon and spa environments under licensed supervision, integrating theoretical knowledge with real client services in controlled settings.
The school promotes a philosophy of bridging artistry and technical proficiency: students practice haircutting, coloring, skincare, waxing, nail services, and makeup while also learning client relations, salon business, safety, and licensure preparation. By focusing solely on beauty industry professions rather than traditional academic degrees, Dalton Institute positions itself as a vocational gateway for students seeking direct entry into careers in salons, spas, resorts, or as beauty entrepreneurs. Given its size and niche focus, the institution operates on a continuous enrollment model and serves a small student body.
Contact Information
Address: 100 West Walnut Avenue, Suite 126, Dalton, Georgia 30720
Phone: (706) 278-0065
Email / General Inquiries: (via institutional contact methods; specific public email not widely published)
School Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding / Years in Operation | Over 20 years (institution cites “20+ years”) |
| Type | Private, for-profit, less-than-2-year trade institution |
| Specialties | Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Instructor Training |
| Accreditation / License | Licensed for cosmetology/esthetic programs; not BBB accredited |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 20 : 1 |
| Campus Setting | Urban / small city (Dalton, Georgia) |
| Student Body Size | Around 85 to 126 students (varies by data source) |
| Graduation Rate | Approximately 7 % (as per some institutional reporting) |
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Rankings
| Category | Ranking / Position |
|---|---|
| National / U.S. | Not ranked in conventional national university rankings (vocational institution) |
| Global | Not applicable (trade/beauty school rather than full university) |
| Specialty / Trade | Recognized locally in Georgia as a cosmetology / esthetics training institution; known for small size and niche pedigree |
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Academics
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Faculties / Departments
Because Dalton Institute is a specialized trade school, it does not use broad academic faculties like liberal arts. Instead, training is structured into program areas or module divisions such as:
- Cosmetology / Hair Science
- Esthetics / Skincare
- Nail Technology / Nail Care
- Instructor Training (Cosmetology / Esthetics)
- Salon Business / Client Relations & Retail
- Makeup, Brow & Lash Services
- Safety, Sanitation, and Regulatory Compliance
- Practical Salon Operations & Student Clinic
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Courses and Programs / Majors
The primary programs and certifications offered include:
- Master Cosmetologist (comprehensive cosmetology including hair, skin, nails, makeup, chemical services)
- Esthetician (focused on skincare, facials, waxing, makeup, lash/brow)
- Nail Technician (manicures, pedicures, acrylics, nail art)
- Cosmetology / Esthetics Instructor Training (for licensed professionals to teach)
Online Learning
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology does not emphasize fully online instruction because much of its training is hands-on and requires in-person practice in salon / clinic settings. Theoretical components or lectures may use blended or hybrid formats, but the core skills in haircutting, coloring, waxing, facials, and nails must be practiced on tangible models and clients. Because the beauty trade demands tactile experience, online instruction plays a supplementary rather than primary role.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Score Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not applicable / not required |
| ACT | Not applicable / not required |
| GRE | Not applicable (no graduate degree programs) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Dalton Institute reports a rather low graduation (completion) rate—data from MyFuture shows a 7 % graduation rate among enrolled students. This implies that many students may leave the program before finishing or transfer out. Given the school’s continuous enrollment model and small size, retention and completion can vary significantly by cohort. Because trade education demands discipline, schedules, and financial commitment, dropout or attrition rates can be higher in specialized institutions.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Dalton Institute typically does not require submission of standardized test scores or stringent GPA thresholds. Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). The admissions process places more emphasis on eligibility criteria, readiness for vocational training, and meeting regulatory licensing prerequisites rather than academic metrics like SAT or ACT.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100 % (open admissions policy typical for trade schools) |
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Application Requirements
Prospective students must complete an application form and provide proof of a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must submit a government-issued photo ID and Social Security Card as part of legal and enrollment documentation. At times, background checks or eligibility for licensure may apply. Habitual good standing, demonstration of professionalism, and readiness to engage in hands-on training are considered during the review. Because the beauty field is regulated, applicants must meet any state licensing prerequisites to progress in program modules.
Application Process
- Submit the school application / enrollment form
- Present proof of high school diploma or GED
- Provide photo identification and Social Security number
- Interview or orientation meeting with admissions counselor
- Review program requirements and scheduling options
- Enroll in classes or modules and begin training
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Item | Deadline / Date |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Start | Continuous enrollment (monthly or rolling start) |
| Admissions Processing | In advance of cohort start, recommended several weeks prior |
| Financial Aid / Scholarships Applications | Prior to start of term (varies by program) |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology does not typically require a formal essay as part of admissions. If narrative materials are requested, they would likely center on the applicant’s motivations to pursue a beauty career, experience in grooming or cosmetology, aspirations for working in salons or spas, and readiness for the discipline and hands-on nature of trade training.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Scholarships
The institute may offer institutional scholarships or financial assistance in line with trade school norms. Many students depend on federal grants or state aid where eligible. According to Niche, about 44 % of students receive some financial aid. The Institute’s published cost data suggests average aid awards of around $4,400 to offset tuition and fees. Students are encouraged to apply early for aid, grants, and any institutional scholarship programs.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Approximate Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| In-State / Resident Tuition & Fees | Approximately $14,159 (published “in-state” average) |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | Approximately $17,615 (published average) |
| Net Price (after aid) | Around $6,625 per year (for students receiving aid) |
| Books, Supplies & Other Costs | Could add several thousand depending on materials, kits, uniforms |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The student population at Dalton Institute is heavily female, characteristic of many beauty trade schools. TradeCollege data shows that among full-time undergraduates, 97 % are female and 3 % male. Ethnic breakdowns in that source indicate about 51 % racial/ethnic minorities (including Black, Hispanic, etc.) and a substantial White student share. Age distribution is less public, but many students are nontraditional, career changers, or adults returning for skill development.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Dalton Institute’s student base includes individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, many of whom benefit from financial aid or loans. According to trade school statistics, approximately 95 % of students take out student loans, averaging around $9,367 per year. Disability accommodation data is not broadly published; however, trade schools often provide reasonable accommodations consistent with regulatory compliance, so long as those do not interfere with essential practical training requirements.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~85 to 126 (varies by data source) |
| Full-Time Students | ~74 % (per MyFuture data) |
| Part-Time Students | ~26 % |
| Students Receiving Aid | ~44 % |
| Students Taking Loans | ~95 % (per trade school data) |
University Diversity
Dalton Institute’s diversity is moderate within its trade niche: while the gender skew is strong toward female enrollment, the racial and ethnic composition reflects a mixed student population. Reports suggest that over half of enrolled students are from minority racial or ethnic backgrounds, creating a multicultural learning environment. The small scale and close cohort model allow for more personalized intercultural collaboration and mentoring. Because the trade of beauty appeals across cultural lines, students often bring diverse aesthetics, hair / skin traditions, and client perspectives into the classroom, enhancing peer learning. The institution’s local roots in Georgia also draw students from diverse communities in the region, contributing to socioeconomic and cultural diversity in its student body.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Dalton Institute typically enter professional beauty roles such as cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, makeup artists, or salon assistants. Entry-level incomes vary widely based on geography, clientele, salon reputation, and tipping culture. In metropolitan or affluent markets, licensed cosmetologists may earn modest base wages supplemented by commission, tips, and retail sales. Over time, successful practitioners or salon owners can scale earnings by building a clientele, offering services, retailing products, or expanding into management. Because beauty services are largely local and competitive, individual earnings are strongly tied to business skills, networking, specialization, and locale demand. The institute’s emphasis on salon-ready skills and client relations aims to enhance graduates’ potential to earn more rapidly than those lacking practical training.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty and staff at Dalton Institute include licensed cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, and instructors certified under Georgia regulatory boards. Staff consists of instructional faculty who supervise student clinic operations, administrative personnel managing admissions and operations, support staff for student services, and clinic coordinators. Given the small scale, some instructors may wear multiple hats (e.g. teaching, clinic supervision, curriculum planning).
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Many instructors at Dalton Institute bring real-world salon or spa experience, advanced licenses, and continuing education credentials to the classroom. Their expertise spans hair coloring, chemical services, skincare techniques, nail enhancements, waxing, lash and brow services, and instructional pedagogy. Some may have accolades in local salons or professional associations, contribute to community beauty events, or maintain client practices alongside teaching. Their hands-on background and industry connections often aid in student mentorship, networking, and job placement.
Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Dalton Institute does not maintain student dormitories or on-campus housing. Students must secure off-campus housing in Dalton or the surrounding area. Because the institution is trade-focused with small enrollments, campus life is minimal in terms of clubs, athletics, or traditional student centers. Much of student life revolves around clinic hours, lab practice, peer collaboration, and salon work. Social engagement often happens informally through cohort relationships and beauty-industry networking.
Transportation
The school is located in a city environment in Dalton, Georgia, making it accessible by local roads, commuting vehicles, or possibly public transit where available. Students usually commute via car, rideshare, or local transport. On-campus mobility is compact; classrooms, labs, and clinic spaces are proximate, so walking between them is practical. Because much of the training involves clinic stations, supplies, and client flow, internal logistics prioritize ease of movement, ergonomics, and layout of salon workstations rather than sprawling campus transportation systems.