Cosmetology Program Overview

The Cosmetology program is taught over approximately 12 months during the day and 18 months during the evening. The program covers the basic knowledge and skills required to become an entry-level Cosmetologist and prepares students to sit for appropriate licensure exams. Students complete coursework in all facets of hairstyling including color, cut and chemical services. The program also provides courses in skin care and nail technology.

Nature of the Work

Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists offer a wide range of beauty services, such as shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling of hair. They may advise clients on how to care for their hair at home. In addition, cosmetologists may be trained to give manicures, pedicures, and scalp and facial treatments; provide makeup analysis; and clean and style wigs and hairpieces.

Overall employment of barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. Opportunities for entry-level workers should be favorable, while job candidates at high-end establishments will face keen competition.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos332.htm.