La’ James International College is a beauty school with five different accredited campuses throughout the state of Iowa.
Welcome to La’ James International College, where the journey to a beautiful career begins—both inside and out. As you step into our world, you're not just exploring a beauty school in Iowa—you’re entering a legacy of excellence, a vibrant learning community, and a place where your future is shaped by inspiration, artistry, and self-discovery.
Since opening our doors in 1966, LJIC has grown into one of the most respected and sought-after names in beauty and wellness education. With five accredited campuses across the state of Iowa, we continue to welcome students from every background, every walk of life, and every corner of the region who share one dream: to turn their creativity into a thriving, meaningful career.
Whether you envision yourself behind the chair as a top-tier stylist, performing advanced skin treatments in a luxurious spa, healing bodies through massage therapy, or mastering nail artistry with a signature flair—La’ James International College provides the tools, training, and transformative experience to get you there.
Here, we don’t just teach technique. We cultivate confidence, professionalism, and leadership. We believe that beauty is more than skin deep—and so is the education we deliver.
At its heart, La’ James International College is a place where dreams meet discipline, and talent meets opportunity. We are a Cosmetology School in Iowa that’s proudly family-owned and operated—founded not just to train professionals, but to elevate individuals.
From our first campus in Fort Dodge to our current presence in Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Des Moines (Johnston), and back to where it all began, we’ve created schools that feel more like homes—vibrant, inclusive, and brimming with possibility.
We are proud to be fully accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), an honor we've held for over 50 years. That means every student who walks through our doors receives not only an education but a standard of excellence that is recognized nationwide.
We invite you to explore our program offerings, from Esthetics and Massage Therapy to Nail Technology and Teacher Training, and even advanced study options like our AAS Degree in Health & Beauty Management or Multiple Licensure paths.
At LJIC, you’re more than a student—you’re part of a movement that’s changing lives through beauty and self-expression.
At La’ James International College, our mission is simple but profound:
To empower our students to discover their talents, pursue their passions, and build careers that make a difference—not just in their own lives, but in the lives of everyone they touch.
We exist to inspire confidence and nurture creativity. Every program, every course, every hands-on experience at LJIC is designed to do more than just educate—it’s built to elevate. Whether you're mastering your first haircut, giving your first facial, or leading a classroom of your own, you’re being shaped into a beauty professional who’s confident, skilled, and ready to succeed.
We believe:
Education should be personal – that’s why we offer individualized instruction in an intimate, caring environment.
Growth comes from experience – so we provide real-world practice through our Student Salon & Spa Services, where students gain confidence by serving the public under licensed supervision.
Opportunities should be accessible – with five campuses across Iowa, including Fort Dodge, we bring beauty education closer to home for more aspiring professionals.
Success should be sustainable – through our Continued Education programs, we help licensed professionals grow throughout their careers.
Most of all, we believe that beauty has power—the power to uplift, connect, heal, and express the unique stories of those who create it. That belief drives us every single day.
At La’ James International College, our services go far beyond classroom instruction—we offer transformative, immersive programs designed to launch your career in the beauty and wellness industry. Whether your goal is to become a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, massage therapist, nail artist, or educator, we provide the practical skills, real-world experience, and mentorship to help you thrive.
Each of our career programs is fully accredited by NACCAS and combines creative freedom with technical precision. From cutting-edge curriculum to hands-on learning in our Student Salon & Spa, you’ll be prepared to step confidently into your profession from day one.
Let your creativity take center stage.
Our Cosmetology Program is the heart of LJIC—ideal for those who dream of transforming lives through hair, makeup, and style. You'll learn everything from foundational hair cutting and coloring techniques to advanced design and chemical treatments, plus makeup application, skin care, and client communication. With hours of hands-on training and exposure to current salon trends, you’ll graduate confident and career-ready.
You’ll learn:
Haircutting, styling, and texturizing
Hair color and chemical services
Basic skincare and makeup
Manicures and pedicures
Salon operations and professionalism
Turn your love for skincare into a glowing career.
Our Esthetics Program is perfect for those passionate about wellness, skincare, and beauty enhancement. You’ll study everything from facial techniques to advanced skincare modalities like microdermabrasion, peels, and facial machines. You’ll also develop strong client communication and consultation skills to help others feel beautiful and confident in their skin.
You’ll learn:
Facials and skincare treatments
Skin analysis and product knowledge
Waxing and hair removal
Makeup artistry and contouring
Lash and brow services
Spa sanitation and safety
Heal through the power of touch.
Discover the healing art of massage in a program that blends Eastern and Western bodywork traditions. LJIC’s Massage Therapy Program prepares you for licensure with deep instruction in anatomy, physiology, and multiple therapeutic techniques—from Swedish massage to deep tissue and reflexology. You’ll also gain real experience through supervised practice in our Student Spa.
You’ll learn:
Human anatomy and kinesiology
Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage
Hydrotherapy and spa techniques
Ethics and client care
Pathology and contraindications
Business and marketing for therapists
Turn your eye for detail into a creative, hands-on career.
Nail Technology is a fast-growing specialty with endless opportunity for artists who love fashion, design, and personal care. Our program covers everything from basic nail care to advanced nail art and sculpting techniques. You’ll be trained in both natural nail health and artificial enhancements, with an emphasis on sanitation, safety, and client satisfaction.
You’ll learn:
Manicures and pedicures
Acrylics, gels, and nail wraps
Nail art and trends
Infection control and sanitation
Client consultations
Business fundamentals
Inspire the next generation of beauty professionals.
Already licensed and experienced in the beauty field? Take the next step in your career with our Teacher Training Program. This program equips you with the tools to educate, motivate, and lead students through their own beauty journeys. Learn classroom management, curriculum development, and hands-on teaching strategies under the guidance of LJIC’s experienced educators.
You’ll learn:
Educational theory and teaching methods
Lesson planning and evaluations
Classroom and clinic floor instruction
Communication and leadership skills
School administration and compliance
Blend beauty and business for next-level success.
The AAS Degree Program combines your technical education with business, marketing, and management training. Ideal for those looking to move into salon ownership, management, or advanced industry roles, this program builds your leadership potential and prepares you to navigate the beauty world with confidence and strategy.
You’ll study:
Business management and entrepreneurship
Accounting and financial planning
Human resources and leadership
Marketing and branding
Industry regulations and operations
Broaden your skills. Multiply your opportunities.
Want to do it all? Our Multiple Licensure Program allows you to combine two or more licensures—such as Cosmetology & Esthetics or Massage Therapy & Nail Technology. This unique offering gives you the versatility to offer a wider range of services, attract more clients, and expand your career opportunities.
Examples of licensure combinations include:
Cosmetology + Esthetics
Esthetics + Nail Technology
Massage Therapy + Nail Technology
Stay sharp. Stay licensed. Stay ahead.
Licensed professionals can continue to grow with our Continued Education offerings. These short-term classes meet state licensure requirements while keeping you updated on the latest industry trends, techniques, and technologies. Stay inspired, sharpen your skills, and maintain your license with ease.
Topics include:
Advanced skincare
Hair coloring techniques
Business and ethics
Nail design trends
Massage enhancements
Our students gain real-world experience through LJIC’s Student Salon & Spa, where guests enjoy professional services at affordable prices, all performed under the guidance of licensed instructors. Whether you're looking for a fresh haircut, rejuvenating facial, relaxing massage, or trendy nail design—our students are ready to help you feel your best.
Services Offered Include:
Haircuts, color, and styling
Facials, peels, and skincare treatments
Waxing, brow and lash services
Manicures, pedicures, nail art
Massage therapy and relaxation services
Support student learning and treat yourself to a salon-quality experience today!
📍 Find a campus near you to book an appointment. Book a service today!
Choosing the right beauty school isn’t just about picking a program—it’s about finding a place that feels like home, where your individuality is celebrated, your goals are nurtured, and your future is made possible. At La’ James International College, we’re proud to be that place for thousands of graduates who now work in salons, spas, clinics, studios, and wellness centers across the country.
Here’s why so many future professionals trust LJIC with their dreams:
For nearly 60 years, LJIC has been setting the standard in beauty education. Founded in 1966 in Fort Dodge, we’ve expanded to five accredited campuses across Iowa:
Our rich history, family-owned spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality make us one of the most respected Cosmetology Schools in Iowa.
With programs in Cosmetology, Esthetics, Massage Therapy, Nail Technology, Teacher Training, AAS Degree, Multiple Licensure, and Continued Education, LJIC prepares students for success in all corners of the beauty and wellness industry. Our programs are designed with career readiness in mind—from salon business skills to real client interaction.
You won’t just learn in a classroom—you’ll work in our Student Salon & Spa, where you’ll provide services to the public under licensed supervision. It’s real practice, with real clients, and real confidence.
We don’t just teach—we support your journey from student to professional. Our staff provides career coaching, resume workshops, and job placement assistance. Many of our students begin working in the industry even before graduation.
Even after graduation, LJIC is here for you. Our Continued Education courses keep you on the cutting edge of trends, technologies, and techniques—ensuring you never stop growing in your craft.
La’ James International College is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), a gold standard in the industry. We were proudly recognized as a Founding Member School during NACCAS's 50-year celebration in Arlington, Virginia.
We’re more than a beauty school—we’re a family. Our campuses are tight-knit communities where instructors know your name, peers become lifelong friends, and every success is celebrated. But don’t just take our word for it—read what our students have to say.
Whether you’re ready to enroll, want to book a student salon service, or simply have a few questions, La’ James International College is here to help you every step of the way. Your journey to a rewarding, passion-filled career in the beauty and wellness industry begins with just one conversation. And we can’t wait to hear from you.
We believe that connection is everything. That’s why we’ve made it easy to reach us—whether you want to call, message, visit, or follow us online. You’re not just contacting a school; you’re reaching out to a team of people who truly care about your growth, creativity, and future.
La’ James International College
8805 Chambery Blvd, Johnston, IA 50131, United States
📍 View on Google Maps
📞 Phone: +1 (515) 278-2208
🌐 Website: https://ljic.edu/
🎓 Learn more on our About Us page
📖 Explore our full Service Menu
📣 Hear from real students on our Testimonials page
We have five accredited campuses throughout Iowa—each one offering a unique environment where students thrive and clients enjoy exceptional services. You’re welcome to visit for a tour, consultation, or service appointment at any of our locations.
🌆 Cedar Falls Campus 🌇 Cedar Rapids Campus
🌃 Davenport Campus 🌄 Fort Dodge Campus
🌉 Des Moines Campus – Johnston
Follow us and join a vibrant community of future professionals, alumni, educators, and beauty lovers. Stay up to date with news, inspiration, student spotlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and more:
Our website is full of resources and detailed program information to help you explore your options:
🔗 All Programs
🔗 Cosmetology
🔗 Esthetics
🔗 Massage Therapy
🔗 Nail Technology
🔗 Teacher Training
🔗 AAS Degree in Health & Beauty Management
🔗 Multiple Licensure Options
🔗 Continued Education Courses
Still unsure where to start?
Reach out to us—we’ll help guide you!
If you’re ready to start your journey toward a career you love—surrounded by inspiration, creativity, and opportunity—we’d love to meet you. Whether you're interested in a campus tour, want help choosing a program, or have questions about enrollment, we're here to help every step of the way. Contact Us Now!