Located in the heart of downtown Royal Oak, just minutes from Detroit, the Douglas J Institute offers students the opportunity to learn in one of Metro Detroit’s most vibrant communities. Surrounded by local restaurants, boutiques, and businesses, our beautiful two-story campus features open spaces and glass walls that inspire creativity and collaboration. Since opening in 2008, our Royal Oak campus has embodied the Douglas J commitment to excellence by providing hands-on education guided by experienced instructors. Contact us or call us at (877) 311-8957 to schedule a tour!
Royal Oak Campus Not Sure Where to Start? Take our quick beauty quiz or explore full-time and part-time evening program options. Royal Oak Campus Located in the heart of downtown Royal Oak, just minutes from Detroit, the Douglas J Institute offers students the opportunity to learn in one of Metro Detroit’s most vibrant communities.
Cosmetology and Esthiology Curricula: Hands-On Training and Career Readiness
Cosmetology Curriculum Cosmetology is taught in an educationally progressive environment, emulating a high-end salon setting. To start, you’ll be in our classroom, receiving instructional education with our Educators providing guidance all along the way. Once you’re ready, you’ll train on the student clinic floor, interacting with a diversity of guests. Because we want you to be successful, we give you all the support you need, every step of the way. Our Educators work side-by-side with you, offering guidance and training while you work and gain real hands-on experience. Cosmetology program features: 1,500 hour program Preparation for state board exam Full-time (11 months) and part-time (15 months) schedules available Licensed by the Michigan Board of Cosmetology & Accredited by NACCAS
Esthiology Curriculum In this full or part-time program, you move through Intro and Senior Theory, studying high-touch, high-tech techniques to purify, balance and renew the skin - the foundation of aesthetic beauty. Through hands-on training, you’ll work on mannequins, live models and then graduate to the student clinic spa interacting closely with guests. You also learn extensive business-building skills and wellness therapies, providing the training you need for a successful career as a licensed esthetician. Esthiology program features: 750 hour program Preparation for state board exam Daytime (5.5 months) and Evening (7.5 months) schedules available
Celebrations and Educator Spotlight Celebrating Our Royal Oak Educators We are incredibly proud to celebrate Amy and Michael, cosmetology educators at Douglas J Royal Oak Institute, on their nomination for the Intercoiffure America Canada Honor the Teacher Award! Nominated by their students, this recognition celebrates the impact Amy and Michael have made through their dedication to beauty education, student success, and career preparation. Their passion, encouragement, and commitment continue to inspire the next generation of beauty professionals.
Industry Alignment and Sustainability
Train With Eco-Conscious, Industry-Leading Beauty Brands At Douglas J, you’ll learn using the same high-performance, sustainable, and cruelty-free product lines favored by top salons and spas. From ingredient-transparent skin care to vegan, plastic-neutral, carbon-neutral hair systems, our brands let you build the skills and confidence you need-while making choices that honor the planet.
Royal Oak Campus “What do you love most about the Royal Oak area? Oh my gosh, so many things-but I would say the active downtown Royal Oak lifestyle. On your break, you can just pop out and grab lunch really quickly, and there are so many options right in the area. We also have a wonderful view right outside our clinic floor that’s always exciting, bustling, and fun to look out on.”
Fast-Track Career Preparation
FASTER PATH TO A CAREER Start Your Career Sooner Traditional degrees can take years, but at Douglas J Institute, you’ll be career-ready in a fraction of the time. Our focused programs provide hands-on training, so you can start doing what you love-sooner.
Room & Board ExpensesTuition & Financial AidIn-State TuitionNo data available The 19401.23 average for In-State Tuition is $19,401.Out-of-State TuitionNo data available The 22099.21 average for Out-of-State Tuition is $22,099.Average Total Aid AwardedNo data available The 10456.51 average for Average Total Aid Awarded is $10,457.
Campus Experience and Schedule
Admissions: 877.311.8957 Guest Services: 248.336.5500 Monday: 5pm - 10pm Tuesday: 9:30am - 10pm Wednesday-Friday: 9am - 10pm Saturday: 9am - 4:30pm
Mon-Fri clinic hours and student life details reflect a campus designed to support learners who balance academics with real-world exposure, including interactions with guests in a salon-like setting.
- Hands-on cosmetology education on the student clinic floor
- Preparation for state board exams
- Full-time and part-time schedules to fit lifestyles
- Eco-conscious product education and cruelty-free lines
WINNERS' TRIP to Le Brassus | Audemars Piguet x Wristcheck: Your Take On The Royal Oak
The program structure emphasizes real-world skills, with educators guiding you through both theoretical and practical components, mirroring the environment of professional salons and spas. The campus community highlights engagement with local amenities and an energetic downtown setting, contributing to a holistic beauty education experience.