What Is It Known For?
Lotus Professional College, located in Henrico/Richmond, VA, is a private, for-profit institution focused on massage therapy training. Joseph Schibner has served as the college’s president since 1995, providing leadership and direction to ensure a strong educational environment for students.
With an estimated enrollment of around 180 students annually, the college offers a supportive setting where students can develop the skills needed for a successful career in massage therapy.
Degrees & Certifications
Lotus Professional College provides specialized training for those looking to build careers in:
- Acupuncture
- Therapeutic Massage
- Basic Esthetics
- Master Esthetics
Class Schedules
At Lotus Professional College, students can choose from day or evening classes, allowing them to balance their education with other commitments. For added flexibility, the college also offers online live virtual classrooms.
On Saturdays, students have the opportunity to practice their skills in an onsite clinic, running from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Here, they work with real clients under the supervision of licensed professionals, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Is It a Good School?
Yes, Lotus Professional College is a reputable institution. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Acceptance Rate
Lotus Professional College operates with an open-admission policy, meaning that the acceptance rate is 100%.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Lotus Professional College varies depending on the program:
- Therapeutic Massage Program Tuition: $8,900.00
- Basic Esthetics Program Tuition: $9,300.00
- Master Esthetics Program Tuition: $9,300.00
The school also offers a Master of Science in Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization, with tuition priced at $365 per credit. The average number of credits per trimester is 19, totaling approximately $6,935. Since the school does not have a net price calculator, the best way to get detailed information about tuition and additional fees is to contact the school directly.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare
- Massage Therapy
Professional Services
- Esthetics
Campus Locations
Richmond 8935 Patterson Avenue Richmond, VA 23229
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, Lotus Professional College has an overwhelmingly positive reputation, particularly for the high quality of its student-run esthetics clinic. Clients consistently praise the students’ knowledge and professionalism, though there are a few isolated but serious concerns about administrative support and campus issues.
Overall Score: 4.7/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Student Services (Esthetics/Facials): This is the strongest point of praise. Clients consistently describe the student estheticians (many named in reviews) as “excellent,” “incredible,” “professional,” and “very knowledgeable.” Customers are often so impressed they plan to rebook with the same student or follow them after graduation.
Knowledgeable and Effective Training: Students are praised for understanding products, applying correct pressure, and tailoring services to specific skincare needs. The training for specialties like massage, acupuncture, and esthetics is described as providing a “wealth of knowledge” and valuable hands-on practice.
Serene and Relaxing Atmosphere: Clients frequently describe the clinic experience as “serene, calming, and inviting,” which contributes to a “wonderful” and “peaceful” overall feeling.
Supportive Environment: One student reviewer explicitly states that the school “GENUINELY cared about their students” and was “invested in their success.”
Common Criticisms
Administrative and Support Concerns: A few reviewers express concerns about the administrative and teaching staff. One reviewer claimed they were accused of “unsavory behavior” and “shunned by the school” when trying to clarify a difficult personal matter.
Privacy, Sanitation, and Teaching Consistency: One current student raised concerns about privacy and sanitation standards. The same reviewer also noted that while some teachers are friendly, “several of them are not good at explaining the material,” suggesting a lack of consistency in instructor quality.
Potential for Injury in Clinic: An older, isolated review details a negative experience where a student caused pain and injury during a first-ever clinic massage, suggesting that client safety or student supervision may have been inadequate in that instance.
Momentum
The momentum for Lotus Professional College is overwhelmingly positive and sustained. Nearly all recent reviews (from the last year to the last few months) are five-star ratings specifically praising the individual student estheticians by name and the quality of the services they received. While there are a few recent, serious criticisms about administrative and teaching consistency, the core business of providing quality student-run clinic services appears to be thriving, reflecting a long-standing reputation for quality programs.