Cosmetology Training Programs & Jobs

With the help of modern technology, the study of cosmetics has grown even more intricate. It now involves understanding the chemistry of human skin and hair, along with the rapid usage of environment-friendly products. Thus, employment opportunities in the cosmetology industry are predicted to increase by 19%, which is relatively greater than the average for all other occupations.

The goal of cosmetology is to study various forms of cosmetics, including skincare, hair care, makeup, and style. Cosmetologists also provide personal care and beauty services. Besides, these professionals need to conduct the necessary tests of the products to verify their purity and non-toxicity. Thus, the precise state standards for licensure are a must-know for students enrolled in cosmetology schools.

Several cosmetology courses are available from specialist schools and institutions throughout the world. You may choose any of them as a popular topic of study and establish a flourishing career in the fashion and beauty industry.

So, this article will provide a list of different training programs and job opportunities in the cosmetology industry.

Top 7 Training Programs in Cosmetology

Some universities, colleges, and institutions offer short-term and long-term cosmetology programs. We have discussed the 7 major training programs below. Have a look!

1. Associate of Arts in Cosmetology by Laney College

All aspects of cosmetology comprise Laney College’s Associate of Arts in Cosmetology course. Students are trained to apply for the California State Board of Cosmetology licensure examination through the program’s 1600 hours of instruction and qualify for it. This, in turn, helps them earn a cosmetology certificate.

It includes theoretical foundations, manipulation skills, business knowledge, and professional and ethical practices. The duration of the course is 4-semesters. An orientation meeting is held for first-time students.

They must complete each prerequisite course with a “C” grade or higher to go on to the next course in the offering sequence. Transfer students can seek admission when openings arise if they have not accrued more than 300 certified hours and apply within a year of withdrawing from their former institution.

2. Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology Operator by Palo Alto College

Students who desire to pursue a profession in cosmetology can enroll in this two-year AAS degree program at Palo Alto College. Students are given the theoretical knowledge and fundamental skills necessary to pass the state license exam here. This AAS program offers a fantastic option for individuals who desire to pursue higher education while entering the field as a cosmetologist.

With this degree, you can apply for work as a cosmetologist, hairdresser, or stylist. However, you must pass 4 prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better if a student wants admission to the cohort-based cosmetology operator AAS. After finishing, you might ask your adviser for an application form. Once you submit the form, you will get an invitation for an interview to explain the program requirements.

Students may apply for a student permit and submit a Notice of Ineligibility for License form to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) before beginning the program. If the student is accepted to the program based on the interview results, they will also need to submit the Student Permit Application.

However, interested students can transfer their degree to a 4-year institution to get a Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences.

3. Cosmetology Associate in Science by Santa Barbara City College

To obtain a California license, students must pass the State Board of Cosmetology’s final test, covered in the 1800-hour cosmetology program at Santa Barbara City College. The concepts of hair washing, hair shaping, hair styling, chemical relaxing, permanent waves, and soft curls are all covered in the course.

By opting for this program, students will also learn how to study the scalp and hair. It will help in developing their capacity to recognize illnesses, diseases, and parasites that may be present on one’s scalp.

To build a Student Education Plan, including a suggested course sequence for this program tailored to your specific requirements, you must schedule a meeting through Starfish with your SBCC academic counselor. Also, you must discuss the general education requirements with an academic counselor. Students will also have to perform simulated State Board-based written and practical exams during the course to qualify for it right on the first attempt.

4. Cosmetology – Certification of Completion by Utah State University

Graduates of this cosmetology certification program from Utah State University are prepared to sit for the State Board Exam and get licensed. Students develop cosmetology, barbering, nail art, and skincare skills during the curriculum.

Also, you can create portfolios while learning and practicing at this institute. You can utilize them for job interviews. Every cosmetology program alum is qualified to work in a full-service salon.

Many careers, such as hairstylist, colorist, nail technician, educator, makeup artist, lash technician, or barber, will be available after acquiring a cosmetology degree from this institute. So, after completing the program, you can pick between working for a major franchise, an independent chain, a spa salon, or a local salon.

5. Advanced Technical Certificate in Cosmetology by Idaho State University

Students completing the Advanced Technical Certificate in Cosmetology from Idaho State University will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to perform a wide range of beauty services. It may include manicures, shampooing, hair styling, makeup application, temporary and permanent hair waving, hair straightening, bleaching, tinting, and different skin and scalp treatments.

It takes 1.5 years to finish this curriculum, and its total expense is $16,381.96. You can apply for scholarship schemes to get some financial benefits. Along with artistic and creative skills, graduates of this program develop excellent interpersonal and communication skills, becoming well-rounded cosmetologists.

6. Master of Science in Cosmetic Science by Farleigh Dickinson University

The MS in Cosmetic Science by Fairleigh Dickinson University was initially offered in New Jersey in 1982. However, it still strives to meet the demands of people who oversee developing commercial goods for the cosmetics, toiletry, and fragrance sectors.

This curriculum helps students build the abilities required to perform senior cosmetics business tasks. Also, it gives cosmetologists access to the most recent developments in their sector for enhanced business growth. Besides, this course is for technicians looking to advance to managerial positions in a cosmetology lab or factory.

The degree can help students without prior work experience break into the cosmetics sector. Applications are handled on a rolling admission basis for this program. Most students who enroll in this program have already earned a BS in Allied Sciences at the undergraduate level, preferably in Chemistry or Biology.

7. Bachelor of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cosmetic Science, and Formulation Design from the University of Toledo

The only university in the nation to provide an undergraduate degree in cosmetic science and formulation design is the University of Toledo in Ohio. The job market for cosmetic science graduates from this university is quite competitive.

A Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences in Cosmetic Science and Formulation Design is awarded to graduates upon completion. Most cosmetic science students of this institute do an internship while studying cosmetics art, science, and business.

They learn about formulating and manufacturing cosmetic and personal care goods. Graduates of this program research laws and methods for evaluating item performance, quality, and safety. Students spend most of their time in the lab getting practical instructions on the formulation. Marketing, R&D, and formulation are just a few of the fields where these students work.

Cosmetology Job Opportunities

Your goal as a cosmetologist is to help people feel and look better. Besides, a cosmetologist’s job also involves interacting with clients often. Thus, you must be likable and skilled in speaking and listening to become competent in the industry.

Having had training in each aspect, a certified cosmetologist would have various professional career options. Here are some of them.

1. Hair Stylist

Among the many tasks, you will carry out as a hairdresser are shampooing, haircutting, and styling hair. You may also use deep conditioning procedures to dye, weave, and color your client’s hair. There are numerous specialties and subspecialties within the profession. You can think about taking courses in particular skills or perhaps gaining certification. Hair stylists usually operate in spas, salons, and clients’ homes to provide clients with new hair colors and treatments.

2. Cosmetology Instructor

Cosmetology instructor must prepare their pupils for extensive careers in the field. Some cosmetology instructors may have expertise in particular areas, such as skincare and hair care. They frequently work at beauty schools, providing practical training to students aspiring to become cosmetologists. These instructors are knowledgeable about the discipline and how to impart that knowledge to others. So, if you are a cosmetology instructor, you should be able to instruct and educate pupils on various beauty procedures. The ability to create lesson plans and course curricula should also be part of your repertoire. Moreover, you must be able to offer cosmetology lessons to pupils that are both theoretical and practical.

3. Nail Technician

As a nail technician, you will have to maintain and enhance the nails on people’s hands and feet in your capacity. It includes doing standard manicures and pedicures and providing treatments, including nail polishing, nail filing, and nail wrapping. In addition to performing sophisticated nail artistry techniques like airbrushing and nail art painting, some nail technicians also execute a hot-oil treatment and provide foot or hand massages. To guarantee that every customer is satisfied with their nails, you must follow the current nail trends and adhere to all health and safety guidelines. However, nail technicians must acquire artistic skills to captivate consumers coming to their salons and spas.

4. Electrologists

Electrologists are technicians in the beauty or medical industries specializing in treating unwanted hair. They perform electrolysis, or the destruction of hair development cells, by inserting a tiny needle into the hair follicle’s natural opening. The only permanent hair removal therapy that has received FDA approval is electrolysis. Professionals who carry out this process frequently get further accreditation. If you want to go on this route, your employment will include using microscopic probes to administer a minute amount of electricity to hair follicles, killing their capacity to grow new hair.

5. Beauty Consultants

Beauty consultants share their expertise and perspective in the beauty industry with others. They offer detailed insights into beauty salons and parlors, helping them make effective decisions to boost their success. Besides, they guide customers in retail environments to assist them in buying proper beauty goods. Consultants may work for themselves as independent contractors or for cosmetics stores. They ascertain the skin types, issues, and fashion preferences of customers. Then, they suggest items meeting their needs, preferences, and price ranges while showing how the goods function. They handle purchases and returns, address customer inquiries and grievances, and keep the cash register in balance.

6. Skin Specialists

Skin specialists wash and beautify their clients’ faces and bodies to enhance their looks. They perform special procedures to restore the health of injured skin. Rosacea, dehydration, aging, and sun damage therapies are among them. They advise clients on how to clean and care for their skin properly. Also, they suggest skincare and cosmetics items suitable for each customer. They do facials and skin treatments, sanitize the tools, exfoliate the client’s skin, and take off makeup. If the specialist identifies significant skin problems, they may suggest a dermatologist visit. To enhance the health and look of the skin, skincare professionals also provide head and neck massages, full-body treatments, and facials. Some may even offer additional skincare procedures, including scrubs, peels, and masks, to eliminate dry or dead skin.

7. Shampoo Assistants

At times, hairstylists need help with some duties. Hence, shampoo assistants oversee doing it. Along with shampooing, assistants apply conditioner, clean the area, prepare shampoos and other products, and blow-dry hair. Also, aside from working at the front desk and cleaning the salon area, they can do both. Most frequently, candidates willing to become cosmetologists work in this profession while studying for their licensure. Working with customers undergoing treatments from a qualified stylist is part of your job as a shampoo assistant in a salon.

Wrapping Up

You may choose from a variety of cosmetology courses provided by specialist schools and institutes throughout the world. They are among the most sought-after subjects of study in the fashion and beauty industry.

Your cosmetology training will focus on several essential topics. However, to excel in this sector, you must have a good hand, finger, and eye dexterity in addition to creative abilities. Also, interpersonal and communication skills are imperative to possess.

A certification, diploma, or complete degree from an approved university is required to become a certified cosmetologist. Typically, many short-term courses and training programs in cosmetology are available and designed to prepare students to work as makeup and beauty professionals.

So, you may opt for any of the cosmetology courses mentioned above and explore ample job opportunities in the industry.