Tattoo Course
Course Overview
Hybrid Learning Style
24-25 weeks (6 Months)
Certificate of Completion
Practicum & Shop Experience
Become a Certified Tattoo Artist
Choosing the right tattoo training matters, and our accredited Tattoo Program offers the structure, support, and industry standards that traditional apprenticeships, crash courses, and online-only options often can’t. Over 24–25 weeks, you’ll learn through a hybrid blend of online theory and in-studio hands-on practice, building strong foundational skills in safety, technique, and design. Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction, while supervised model days provide real experience on real skin. As the first accredited tattoo training program in Canada, we offer an educational environment that is ethical, consistent, and focused entirely on preparing you for a successful career. Graduate with confidence, a portfolio you’re proud of, and the essential knowledge needed to start your journey as a professional tattoo artist.
Course Details
Online Theory: Weeks 1-5 (Structured, Self-paced lessons)
In-Person Training: Weeks 6-24/25 (Structured, Instructor-led lessons)
In- Person classes are Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm, with a 1 hour lunch break from 12-1.
**Please note that your desired intake may be affected by the holidays which will extend it by 1 week to accommodate, this is why we make the distinction for program weeks as 24-25)
Online Theory Curriculum (Weeks 1–5)
This 5-week online theory portion introduces students to the history, science, safety, and professional standards of tattooing. It serves as the academic foundation for the extended in-person practical component. Lessons are self-paced with suggested daily goals to keep students on track, and include:
- Interactive quizzes and assignments after each lesson
- Introductory exposure to guest speaker topics, which are expanded upon during in-person training
Core topics include (but are not limited to):
- History
- Alberta Health Services Regulations
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Infection Control
- Personal Safety
- Sterilization Practices
- Insurance
- Legal
- Marketing
- Photography
- Bookkeeping
- Professionalism
- Client Care
- Studio Operations & Policies
- Ergonomics
- Common products
- Inks, Needles, Grips
- Coil & Rotary Machines
- Power Supply
- Art
- Procreate
- Stencils
- and so much more (including BBP, First Aid, WHMIS)!
This solid foundation ensures that students are fully prepared for the next phase of hands-on work.
In-Person Tattoo Curriculum(Weeks 6–24/25)
Students then join us in person at our AHS-inspected, multi-level training facility in Grande Prairie. In the first weeks on-site, students review online content, meet with business consultants and guest experts (legal, insurance, mental health, etc.), and begin practical training in a professional studio environment.
During in-person training, students will:
- Practice tattooing on synthetic skin, learning various techniques:
- Linework, script, shapes
- Shading, color packing, textures etc.
- Learn stencil creation and application
- Gain confidence with machine handling
- Set up and break down a sterile field, repeatedly and accurately
- Participate in regular instructor-led assessments
- Receive real-time feedback to help you build strong, safe, and professional habits from the very start
- Conduct consultations with real clients
- Book appointments through our public Facebook booking page
- Perform full tattoo procedures on live volunteer clients
- Develop professional habits in a peer-supported classroom environment
In the final 2–3 weeks of training, students complete their practicum at our licensed sister studio, Cree8iv Ink Body Studio, working under professional supervision. This is followed by Graduation Week, which includes a final exam, portfolio review, and celebration of your achievement (please note, graduation will be turning into Convocation twice per year – more details will be provided).
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion. In addition to their certification, students will leave with their own basic tattoo machine setup, allowing them to continue practicing and building their portfolio confidently after graduation. Additionally, studio-ready kits are available for purchase to all successful graduates of the program.
Students also gain access to ongoing mentorship opportunities and are eligible for discounted continuing education workshops, helping them stay connected, supported, and up to date as they grow in their career.
Alumni Progress After Graduation
