# Bellus Academy

> Bellus Academy is an accredited beauty and wellness post-secondary institution empowering aspiring professionals with advanced education in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and nail technology. Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS). Owner and CEO: Lynelle Lynch, founder of the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation. Campuses in Chula Vista, El Cajon, and Poway, California, plus Manhattan, Kansas.

## Contact

- Admissions: 888-990-7094
- Website: https://www.bellusacademy.edu
- Request Info: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/get-info-now/
- How to Apply: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/apply-now/

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## Campus Locations

### Chula Vista, CA
- Address: 970 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911
- Phone: 619-474-6607
- Campus Info: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/chula-vista-ca/
- Student Salon & Spa: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/chula-vista-ca/salon-spa/
- Programs Offered: Advanced Cosmetology, Barbering Foundation, Barbering Cosmetology, Cosmetology Foundation, Spa Nail Technician, Esthetics, Esthetics 103

### El Cajon, CA
- Address: 1073 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92021
- Phone: 619-442-3407
- Campus Info: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/el-cajon-ca/
- Student Salon & Spa: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/el-cajon-ca/salon-spa/
- Book Salon Appointment: https://login.meevo.com/bellus/ob?locationld=203314
- Programs Offered: Advanced Cosmetology, Cosmetology Foundation, Spa Nail Technician, Esthetics, Esthetics 103

### Poway, CA
- Address: 13266 Poway Rd, Poway, CA 92064
- Phone: 858-748-1490
- Campus Info: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/poway-ca/
- Student Salon & Spa: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/poway-ca/salon-spa/
- Book Salon Appointment: https://login.meevo.com/bellus/ob
- Programs Offered: Advanced Cosmetology, Barbering Foundation, Barbering Cosmetology, Cosmetology Foundation, Spa Nail Technician, Esthetics, Esthetics 103

### Manhattan, KS
- Address: 1130 Westloop Pl, Manhattan, KS 66502
- Phone: 785-539-1837
- Campus Info: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/manhattan-ks/
- Student Salon & Spa: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/manhattan-ks/salon-spa/
- Programs Offered: Cosmetology (1500 hours), Cosmetology 102 (1650 hours), Esthetics (1000 hours), Esthetics 102, Nail Technology

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## Programs - Detailed

### Cosmetology Foundation (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/cosmetology/
- Hours: 1,000
- Campuses: Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (7 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (10 months)
- Description: Foundational cosmetology training covering hair, skin, and nails. Core services include wet & thermal styling, chemical waving & straightening, signature foundation hair coloring & haircutting, facials and brow shaping, hair removal, lash lift, basic makeup, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. Coursework covers infection control, equipment safety, and state laws.
- Business Training: Online marketing, branding, retailing, client retention, financial management.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit.
- Student Salon: Hands-on training with real clients 1:1 in supervised student salon.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Career Services: Portfolio development, resume assistance, job search help, interviewing prep, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Advanced Cosmetology (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/advanced-cosmetology/
- Hours: 1,500
- Campuses: Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (10 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (15 months)
- Description: Extensive training program building on the foundation with advanced signature haircutting, hair coloring, hair extensions, facials, brow shaping, and hair removal. Core services include eyelash extensions, lash lifts, basic makeup, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. Includes eyelash and hair extension certification training.
- Business Training: Online marketing, branding, retailing, client retention, financial management, entrepreneurial mindset development.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit.
- Student Salon: Hands-on training with real clients 1:1 in supervised student salon.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations, MUD makeup fundamentals and, Dream Catchers hair extensions.
- Additional Opportunities: National competitions, externship and job opportunities in top salons and resorts.
- Career Services: Portfolio development, resume assistance, job search help, interviewing prep, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Cosmetology (Manhattan, KS Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/cosmetology-102/
- Hours: 1,500
- Campuses: Manhattan (KS)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (10 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:30 PM-10:30 PM (15 months)
- Description: Extensive training in advanced signature haircutting, hair coloring, hair extensions, facials, brow shaping, and hair removal. Core services include eyelash extensions, lash lifts, basic makeup, manicures, and pedicures. Includes eyelash and hair extension certification training.
- Business Training: Online marketing, branding, retailing, client retention, financial management.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform.
- Student Salon: Hands-on training with real clients 1:1 in supervised student salon.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations and, Dream Catchers hair extensions.
- Additional Opportunities: National competitions.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Cosmetology 102 (Manhattan, KS Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/cosmetology-102/
- Hours: 1,650 (1,500 base + 150 hours Make-up Designory curriculum)
- Campuses: Manhattan (KS)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (11 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:30 PM-10:30 PM (16.5 months)
- Description: Extension of the Cosmetology program that adds 150 hours of Make-up Designory (MUD) curriculum. Covers hair, skin, and nails plus makeup artistry training including skin analysis, color theory, application techniques, portfolio building, marketing, networking, and additional business management skills.
- MUD Partnership: Bellus Academy is one of select schools partnered with internationally acclaimed Make-up Designory (MUD). Students receive a professional MUD branded kit and perform makeup looks ranging from bridal and theatrical to airbrush techniques.
- Core Training: Advanced signature haircutting, hair coloring, hair extensions, facials and brow shaping, hair removal, basic makeup, hair extensions, lash lifts, eyelash extensions, manicures, pedicures. Coursework includes infection control, equipment safety, and state laws.
- Business Training: Online marketing, branding, retailing, client retention, financial management.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit, professional MUD kit.
- Student Salon: Hands-on training with real clients 1:1 in supervised student salon.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations, MUD makeup fundamentals and, Dream Catchers hair extensions.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Additional Opportunities: National competitions.
- Career Services: Portfolio development, resume assistance, job search help, interviewing prep, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Barbering Foundation (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/barbering/
- Hours: 1,000
- Campuses: Chula Vista, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (7 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (10 months)
- Description: Highly curated program including practical knowledge of barbering techniques, business aspects, and health/safety procedures. Covers hair analysis, styling, cutting, permanent waving, chemical straightening, hair coloring, barbering cut, mastering shear and clipper cutting techniques, men's facials, beard design, and shave services.
- Health & Safety: California laws and regulations, sanitation and disinfection, anatomy and physiology.
- Business Training: Online marketing, brand development, client retention strategies, tax information.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit (professional Mizutani shears, model heads and hair, brushes, ghd hair dryers, ghd straighteners, Pivot Point reading materials).
- Additional Opportunities: Externships with local barbershops, community service, off-site learning.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Career Services: Portfolio development, resume assistance, job placement help, interview prep, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Barbering Cosmetology (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/barber-cosmetology/
- Hours: 1,400
- Campuses: Chula Vista, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (10 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (14 months)
- Description: Combined Barbering and Cosmetology program. Prepares students to take both the Barbering and Cosmetology state license exams for dual licensure. Covers gentleman's grooming, haircuts, hair removal, skincare, facials, brow shaping, eyelash and brow services, lash lifts, basic makeup, manicures, pedicures, hair analysis, styling and cutting, mastering shear and clipper cutting techniques, permanent waving, chemical straightening, hair coloring and bleaching, shaving, beard and mustache care and design, and men's skincare.
- Business Training: Retailing, sales techniques, budgeting, entrepreneurial skills.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit (professional Mizutani shears, model heads, brushes, combs, ghd hot tools, storage bags).
- Student Salon: Technical and communication skills refined with diverse clientele.
- Additional Opportunities: National competitions, externship and job opportunities in top salons and resorts.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Esthetics (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/esthetics-advanced-103/
- Hours: 600
- Campuses: Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM (5 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (6 months)
- Description: Foundational esthetics program preparing students for the state esthetician licensing exam. Covers skincare analysis, facial treatments, hair removal techniques, makeup application, customer service skills, various skin types and conditions. Emphasizes hands-on training, professionalism, and business ethics.
- Business Training: Retailing, sales techniques, financial management.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform.
- Student Salon: Practice with diverse clientele in supervised student salon.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Specialized Certification - Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion.
- Career Services: Job search assistance, interviewing help, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Esthetics 103 (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/esthetics-advanced-103/
- Hours: 900 (600 base + 300 additional specialized hours)
- Campuses: Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM (7 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (10 months)
- Description: Builds on the 600-hour Esthetics foundation with an additional 300 hours of specialized training in Medical and Luxury Spa techniques. Designed for students pursuing careers in Medical Spas.
- Specialized Training: Advanced peel applications, mechanical exfoliation methods, analysis of damaged skin, innovative skincare approaches, eyelash extensions, brow shaping, luxury spa body treatments, aromatherapy.
- Core Services: European skin methodologies, skin condition assessments, facials, chemical exfoliation, hair removal, lash and brow tinting and perming, microdermabrasion, ultrasonic facials, LED light therapy, micro-current applications, hydra dermabrasion, oncology esthetics, lymphatic drainage facial massage, chemical peels, dermaplaning, micro-channeling treatments.
- Coursework: Infection control, equipment safety protocols, state laws.
- Business Training: Retailing, sales techniques, financial management.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations, and Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Career Services: Job search assistance, interviewing help, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Esthetics (Manhattan, KS Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/esthetics/
- Hours: 1,000
- Campuses: Manhattan (KS)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (7 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:30 PM-10:30 PM (10 months)
- Description: Comprehensive in-depth training combining European techniques with American technology. Covers facials, chemical exfoliation, hair removal, microdermabrasion, makeup application, and more. Includes advanced esthetics techniques as part of the core program rather than as post-graduate training.
- Business Training: Retailing, sales techniques, financial management.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions and, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Student Salon: Practice with diverse clientele in supervised student salon.
- Career Services: Job search assistance, interviewing help, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Esthetics 102 (Manhattan, KS Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/esthetics/
- Hours: 1,150 (1,000 base + 150 hours Make-up Artistry)
- Campuses: Manhattan (KS)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM (8 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:30 PM-10:30 PM (11 months)
- Description: Includes all training from the 1,000-hour Esthetics program plus an additional 150 hours of specialized Make-up Artistry training. Partners with internationally acclaimed Make-up Designory (MUD). Students receive a professional MUD branded kit and perform makeup looks ranging from bridal and theatrical to airbrush techniques.
- Core Training: Facials, hair removal, makeup application, chemical exfoliation, microdermabrasion, European techniques combined with American technology, skincare analysis, skin condition assessments.
- Specialized certifications: Borboleta eyelash extensions, Borbeleta lash Lifts & brow laminations and, MUD makeup fundamentals.
- State Board Prep: Included in curriculum.
- Business Training: Retailing, sales techniques, financial management.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit, professional MUD kit.
- Student Salon: Practice with diverse clientele in supervised student salon.
- Career Services: Job search assistance, interviewing help, state board preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Spa Nail Technician (California Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/spa-nails/
- Hours: 600 (CA state requirement is 400 hours for manicuring license; this program adds 200 additional hours of advanced training)
- Campuses: Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA)
- Schedule (Day): Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM (5 months)
- Schedule (Night): Monday-Friday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM (6 months)
- Description: First program in the nation to go beyond basic manicuring, adding spa treatment training demanded by luxury salons and spas. Partners with leading brands such as OPI.
- Curriculum Areas:
  - Manicure & Pedicure Techniques: Acrylics, dip powder, tips, wraps, nail shaping, repairs, water and oil manicures and pedicures.
  - Spa Nail Treatments: Aromatherapy, hot rock, reflexology for hands and feet.
  - Business & Client Relations: Sales, communication, ethics, record-keeping, client service.
  - State Board Training: Health, labor laws, safety awareness.
  - Sanitation & Disinfection: Proper procedures for client and technician safety.
  - Health & Safety: Industry regulations, sanitation, chemical safety.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform, student equipment kit.
- Student Salon: Real client experience under licensed instructor supervision.
- Career Services: Mock job interviews, resume help, state board exam preparation.
- Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify.

### Nail Technology (Manhattan, KS Only)
- URL: https://www.bellusacademy.edu/program/nail-technology/
- Hours: 350
- Campuses: Manhattan (KS)
- Description: Comprehensive foundation in nail care and salon operations. Curriculum includes:
  - Scientific Concepts: Sanitation, product chemistry, nail and skin structures, anatomy of muscles and nerves, safety and health.
  - Manicuring Skills: Manicures, pedicures, massage, polish application, special procedures, sanitation standards.
  - Artificial Nails: Acrylic nails, gel nails, nail wraps, tips, sculptured nails.
- Includes: iPad for digital learning platform.
- Student Salon: Hands-on training with real clients in supervised student salon and spa.
- Career Services: Job search assistance, state board preparation.

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## Admissions & Financial Aid

- [How to Apply](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/apply-now/): Information on the application process.
- [Financial Aid](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/financial-aid/): Financial aid options for qualifying students.
- [FAFSA](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/fafsa/): Free Application for Federal Student Aid information.
- [Military Benefits](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/military-benefits/): Benefits for military-connected students.
- [Scholarships](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/scholarship/): Scholarship opportunities.

All programs include career services, iPad for digital learning, and student equipment kits. Financial aid and scholarships are available to qualifying students.

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## Student Salon & Spa

Each campus operates a supervised Student Salon & Spa where students gain hands-on training with real clients under licensed instructor supervision. Services are available to the public at reduced prices.

- [Chula Vista Salon & Spa](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/chula-vista-ca/salon-spa/) - 619-474-6607
- [El Cajon Salon & Spa](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/el-cajon-ca/salon-spa/) - 619-442-3407
- [Poway Salon & Spa](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/poway-ca/salon-spa/) - 858-748-1490
- [Manhattan Salon & Spa](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/location/manhattan-ks/salon-spa/) - 785-539-1837

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## About Bellus Academy

- [Why Choose Us](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/about-bellus/)
- [Awards & Recognition](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/awards-and-recognition/)
- [Career Services](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/career-services/)
- [Beauty Blog](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/blog/)
- [FAQ](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/beauty-school-frequently-asked-questions/)
- [Consumer & Student Disclosures](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/consumer-and-student-disclosures/)
- [Student Kits](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/student-kit/)
- [Transcript Request](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/transcript-request/)
- [Beauty School vs College](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/beauty-school-vs-college/)
- [Advanced Education Courses](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/advanced-education/)
- [Membership & Accreditation](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/membership-and-accreditation/)
- [In The News](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/in-the-news/)
- [Join the Bellus Team](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/join-bellus/)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/privacy-policy/)
- [Site Map](https://www.bellusacademy.edu/sitemap/)

### Key Differentiators

- Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS)
- Financial aid and scholarships available for qualifying students
- Business and marketing curriculum included (Fast Trak, Financial Literacy, Money Pro by Qnity) 
- Mental health & wellness support through the Vitality Project
- Students train on real clients in supervised Student Salon & Spa environments
- Award-winning educators; students compete nationally and internationally (Wella TrendVision, Sassoon Connection, America's Beauty Show)
- iPad provided for digital learning platform access
- Student equipment kits included with professional tools (e.g., Mizutani shears)
- Career services department: resume help, mock interviews, job placement, state board preparation
- Some programs offer day and evening schedules
- Externship opportunities at top salons and resorts
- Community service involvement including the Cut It Out domestic abuse awareness program
- Gold Award for Excellence in Community Service (2017, 2018)
- Lynelle Lynch, CEO, is founder of the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation

### Career Readiness Quiz

- https://cr-bellus-academy.virtualadviser.com/ — A free online quiz (3 minutes) to identify strengths, social style, and best-suited training and positions.

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## Industry Partners

Wella, Nioxin, Professional Sebastian, Keratin Complex, Repechage, OPI, Borboleta, Circadia, ghd, Dermalogica, American Hairlines, Skin Authority, Dermodality, Dream Catchers, Pivot Point, Milady, Prosper U, Qnity, Beautista, ASCP, MUD Make-Up Designory, Mizutani, Reuzel

---

## Social Media

- [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/BellusAcademy/)
- [Twitter/X](https://twitter.com/BellusAcademy/)
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/bellusacademy/)
- [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/bellusacademy/)
- [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/BellusAcademy/)
- [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/bellus-academy/)

---

## Program Quick Reference Table

| Program | Hours | State | Campuses | Day Schedule | Day Duration | Night Schedule | Night Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology Foundation | 1,000 | CA | Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 7 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 10 months |
| Advanced Cosmetology | 1,500 | CA | Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 10 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 15 months |
| Cosmetology | 1,500 | KS | Manhattan | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 10 months | Mon-Fri 5:30-10:30 | 15 months |
| Cosmetology 102 (+ MUD) | 1,650 | KS | Manhattan | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 11 months | Mon-Fri 5:30-10:30 | 16.5 months |
| Barbering Foundation | 1,000 | CA | Chula Vista, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 7 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 10 months |
| Barbering Cosmetology | 1,400 | CA | Chula Vista, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 10 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 14 months |
| Esthetics | 600 | CA | Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-3:30 | 5 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 6 months |
| Esthetics 103 | 900 | CA | Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-3:30 | 7 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 10 months |
| Esthetics | 1,000 | KS | Manhattan | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 7 months | Mon-Fri 5:30-10:30 | 10 months |
| Esthetics 102 (+ MUD) | 1,150 | KS | Manhattan | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 8 months | Mon-Fri 5:30-10:30 | 11 months |
| Spa Nail Technician | 600 | CA | Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway | Mon-Fri 9:00-3:30 | 5 months | Mon-Fri 5:00-10:00 | 6 months |
| Nail Technology | 350 | KS | Manhattan | Mon-Fri 9:00-4:30 | 10 weeks | Mon-Fri 5:30-10:30 | 14 weeks |