Institute of Medical Aesthetics

At VKMD we don't just teach Esthetics, we shape professionals

We offer a physician-designed curriculum to give our students the technical, practical, and professional skills needed to excel in today's evolving aesthetics industry.
On-Site Medical Spa

Your classroom comes with a medical spa attached.

VKMD features a full-spectrum, attached medical spa facility, which grants students the immediate opportunity to gain crucial insights and integrate education on the intricacies and operations of the medical aesthetics spa industry. They learn how to operate legally and professionally under physician delegation.

A rare bridge to cross straight out of school.
Full-spectrum med spa
Attached to the school, not across town
Physician delegation
Learn how Colorado medical aesthetics legally operates
Medical director oversight
Clinical standards from day one
Esthetician performing a skin treatment on a client
Sister Company
Springs Body Sculpting & Aesthetics
Client relaxing during a hydrating facial treatment
Best of the Springs 2024 Winner award
Why VKMD

The VKMD Difference

VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics in Colorado Springs is specifically designed to leverage Colorado's unique medical delegation rules to fast-track students into advanced clinical careers. As Colorado Springs' first and original boutique-style, esthetics-only occupational school, we pioneered this educational platform and approach the career path very differently than a standard beauty school.

Seamless All-in-One Licensing & Certifications

In a traditional track, students complete 600 hours for a basic license, graduate, and then must find separate post-graduate facilities to pay for advanced certifications. Our foundational 600-Hour General Esthetics curriculum is completely built out to prepare students for the Colorado State Board exams. However, we uniquely include the Essential Core4 advanced certifications (Dermaplaning, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, and Microneedling) right alongside the standard curriculum. Students take these advanced courses immediately after passing the state boards.

Physician-Designed Curriculum

Because Colorado requires medical aesthetics services (like microneedling or medical-grade lasers) to be formally delegated by a medical doctor, VKMD sets our students up for this exact environment from the very beginning.

VKMD is privately owned and operated by a medical doctor and his wife, both medical aesthetics industry leaders, utilizing a curriculum built under medical guidance.
Medical Aesthetics Expertise

Physician-designed training rooted in clinical standards.

Hands-On Learning

Real spa experience with real clients.

Certifications Included

Graduate with advanced esthetic credentials.

Career Ready

Business, branding, and client skills built in.

Esthetician applying a clay mask during a facial
Years Experience
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Our Programs

Whether you’re beginning your esthetics journey or looking to advance and specialize, VKMD offers comprehensive, cutting-edge training to support your goals.
VKMD Institute logo

600-Hour General Esthetics:
The Foundation

Begin your journey towards a successful long-term career in the industry with the foundational general esthetics 600 hour course. VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics offers the most complete and comprehensive training program in Colorado, diving deep into the topics above and beyond the norm. Our exciting Colorado-certified 600-hour general esthetics program teaches the detailed foundations and fundamentals of skin histology, waxing and hair removal, makeup and lashes, sanitation, business development, marketing tools, and everything you need to become the licensed esthetician you deserve to be!
Gold lotus icon

Advanced Courses: Elevate Your Future

Master your skill set and expand your knowledge far beyond the basics by exploring what we have to offer from the most experienced professionals in the industry. We offer the highest-of-quality advanced education including microdermabrasion, chemical peels, advanced exfoliation, eyelash extensions, microneedling, permanent make-up, laser and devices (face & body), just to name a few.
Esthetics graduate holding her certificate
NCEA Certified badge
National Credential

Elevating Beyond State Standards

While Colorado itself does not require continuing education for license renewal, competitive clinical employers look for national accolades. VKMD is an NCEA (National Coalition of Estheticians Association) Credential Candidate School, allowing students to pursue the elite NCEA Certified Esthetician credential directly through our programming.

Unlock your full potential as a skincare professional by enrolling in our NCEA Certified Esthetician Program. Designed for those who want to elevate their expertise, this advanced program offers the highest standard in esthetic education and prepares you for the prestigious NCEA Certification.

Gain advanced skills, national recognition, and open doors to new career opportunities—all with guidance from industry experts and a curriculum built for your success.

Our 600 Hour General Esthetics program includes our Essential Core 4 advanced certifications which are: microdermabrasion, dermaplane, chemical peels, and microneedling at no additional cost. These courses can be taken upon the successful completion of the 600 hours and passing of state board exams per Colorado state law.

Reviews

What Our Students Are Saying

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Kyerra B profile picture
Kyerra B
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As a VKMD graduate, I highly recommend this school! The instructors are knowledgeable and approachable, creating a comfortable learning environment. They go above and beyond to set you up for success on your board exams and foster a wonderful, supportive community during and after your time there. I also loved being able to take advanced classes right at the same location!
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Rachel M profile picture
Rachel M
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When I came to first visit VKMD I knew immediately this was the school I wanted to attend for my esthetician license, and I am glad I did! The school is clean, full of all the tools and equipment needed to learn and practice esthetics, and has the best instructors! The education they offer, including NCEA certification, and the hands on practice, has 100% prepared me to enter the world of esthetics with confidence. I highly recommend this school if you are considering getting your esthetician’s license or at least stop by and to learn what VKMD is all about!
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Kailey n profile picture
Kailey n
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I’m so glad I chose VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics! The program is very organized and offers so much more than the basics, including facials, acne treatments, skin analysis, lash lifts, brow laminations, and more. They provide a great balance of hands-on experience and theory, helping you truly understand the skin and how to treat different concerns. Advanced courses are also included in tuition and can be taken after graduation, which is such a great opportunity to keep growing your skills. One of my favorite things is that their support doesn’t end when you graduate! I highly recommend VKMD to anyone looking for a well-rounded education and a school that genuinely cares about your success. ❤️
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Addison T profile picture
Addison T
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I had a great experience at this VKMD as a student and now a licensed esthetician! All of the instructors are professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. They provided me with the education and experience I needed to become a confident and skilled esthetician. They offer advanced courses which I am almost finished with, and have had a great experience going back to take those after graduating as well! I’m grateful for everything I learned and all of the friendships I made, and I would definitely recommend VKMD to anyone thinking about pursuing a career in esthetics!
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Ashley G profile picture
Ashley G
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Love visiting & have always received exceptional service. Our favorite is Macy!
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Eliana V profile picture
Eliana V
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I got the amazing opportunity to go here as a full time student! All of the teachers truly care about making a connection with you and helping you learn. Everything is super hands on and the class is a perfect size so everyone gets the same amount of focus and is able to get the exact amount of experience! They are focused on more then just getting you your license, they really want to make sure you are set up for when you go into the industry! I’m currently taking there advanced courses (lashes, microdermabrasion, microneedling, dermaplaning and chemical peels) Which are all included in the program! You also get the opportunity for fun field trips. VKMD is my top recommendation for a esthetics school in Colorado springs
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Tina G profile picture
Tina G
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I recently graduated from the aesthetics program and started my own business thanks to the exceptional education here! They also provide advanced aesthetics courses (chemical peels, microneedling, microdermabrasion, dermaplane, lash extensions) that are open to any licensed beauty professional! I am so grateful I chose this school in Colorado Springs to expand my career 🩷 The teachers are helpful and knowledgeable and truly care about preparing the students for state boards and future job opportunities. Thank you Kara, Cassie, Krisly, Ansley, and Macy!
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Anna profile picture
Anna
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I loved attending school at VKMD! It was a very welcoming environment. The instructors Krisly, Kara, Ansley and Macy are kind and helpful. I learned a lot and felt it was a great school experience
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Katie R profile picture
Katie R
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VKMD is so great! I graduated from VKMD in April 2026 and was also given the opportunity to intern at the med spa with the same owners. I’m so thankful for the education I received from them and I truly believe they are the best choice for those wanting to attend an esthetics school or receive services! The small class size allowed for my fellow students and I to receive constant feedback from instructors. VKMD also has advanced education courses built into the contract which has set me apart from other newly licensed estheticians. I highly recommend VKMD to anyone looking for an esthetics education!
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Aryana H profile picture
Aryana H
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I’ve heard they are the best esthetics school in Colorado Springs. If you’re considering going here over another private aesthetic institute go to VKMD.
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How to Enroll

Your Path to VKMD in 5 Steps

1

Check that you qualify

Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or have a GED equivalent. Must show valid ID and proof of US citizenship.
2

Schedule your tour

Schedule your personal school tour at VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics by calling (719) 988-3141, ext. 1 or emailing info@vkmd.institute.
3

Tour the school

Complete your school tour and explore the possible beginning of your future career.
4

Review the Course Catalog

Read through the Course Catalog provided to you during your school tour as you contemplate the rewarding experience of becoming a licensed esthetician. View the Course Catalog (PDF)
5

Enroll

Officially enroll in our 600-Hour General Esthetics program by completing your $2,999 down payment, signing your Enrollment Agreement, and preparing to master the art of esthetics and skincare at VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics! Preview the Enrollment Agreement (PDF)
Courses

Currently Enrolling

Start your journey in medical aesthetics with one of our upcoming esthetician classes. Choose the schedule that fits your lifestyle and take the next step toward a rewarding and empowering career.

October 2026

26

Monday

Esthetician Class Part Time (Evening) – Starts October 26th, 2026

October 2026

26

Monday

Esthetician Class Full Time – Starts October 26th, 2026

January 2027

04

Monday

Esthetician Class Full Time – Starts January 4th, 2027

Our Core Pillars

The foundation of every VKMD education: values that shape confident, skilled, and future-ready estheticians.

Vision

A VKMD education fosters a mindset of innovation and forward-thinking. It entails encouraging students to explore new possibilities, develop creative solutions, and anticipate emerging trends in the field. Our visionary approach helps students envision the future of advanced aesthetics and empowers them to make a meaningful impact through cutting-edge techniques and treatments.

Knowledge

Knowledge is the foundation of a successful aesthetics career. A VKMD education encompasses a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, histology, and the latest advancements in the field. Our school emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge through comprehensive coursework, hands-on training, and a "practice makes progress not perfection" philosophy. By instilling a thirst for knowledge, students are equipped with the expertise needed to provide safe and effective treatments to their clients.

Mastery

Mastery refers to the attainment of exceptional skills and expertise in the practice of advanced aesthetics. VKMD instills into our future professionals a combination of theoretical knowledge, technical proficiency, and a refined sense of artistry. Through rigorous training, practice, and mentorship at our sister company, Springs Body Sculpting, students develop the precision, dexterity, and attention to detail necessary for performing advanced skincare procedures and non-surgical cosmetic treatments in a real life environment. (Visit www.springsbodysculpting.com today!)

Distinction

Distinction, in the context of a advanced esthetics school, refers to setting oneself apart and standing out from others in the industry and entails going above and beyond the standard expectations to achieve excellence and recognition. We embolden our future professionals to strive for distinction, and to demonstrate exceptional skills, professionalism, ethical practices, and a commitment to delivering outstanding client care.
News

Latest News

Please Read our Blog posts for more tips and information!