Cosmetology Degree Programs

The business of beauty is big! Cosmetology, Barbering and Spas as an industry are expanding rapidly. You can work almost anywhere with a degree from the right cosmetology school. When training for cosmetology licensing, you may specialize in hair, nails, skincare or makeup.

Graduates of barber schools and cosmetology schools enjoy unique employment opportunities in places like beauty shops, spas, resorts, movie crews, cruise ships and private businesses.

Hairdressers and barbers provide hair care services to enhance the appearance of consumers. Hairdressers also advise clients on how to care for their hair. Graduates of barber colleges do the same, except mostly for men.

Graduates of cosmetology schools can also go on to become:

  • Manicurists
  • Pedicurists
  • Estheticians
  • Hair removal technicians

  • Permanent makeup technicians

Cosmetology licensing varies from state to state, so be sure you enter the right cosmetology school that has the correct accreditation and licensing.

The US Bureau of Department of Labot predicts there is a growing demand for cosmetologists and barbers. Overall employment is expected to increase through 2014. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs are expected to increase by 9% to17% through 2014. Many different reasons account for this boom in the beauty industry, including:

  • Increased population
  • Rising incomes
  • Demand for improved personal appearances
  • Increases in retirement or relocation rates

Cosmetology schools offer a range of programs. Usually, the courses consist of hair styling, nail care and skin care. It is not always limited to these programs. You can ask specific schools for more information on their cosmetology courses. Typically, you can study a specific area of interest, such as coloring, styling or nail health. Upon completion, you can take your cosmetology licensing exam. The exams vary by state. However, the exam usually consists of a written test and a practical demonstration.

Barbering is a big part of the beauty industry. Barbering schools offer the fundamentals you need for a successful career. There is a small difference between cosmetology and barbering. Barbering courses consists of learning how to cut hair as well as learning facial shaving skills.

You can also learn how to cut and fit hairpieces. You can receive your license in 9 to18 months, depending on whether you’re a full- or part-time student. You can attend a cosmetology college or a barber college to receive your license. And, in many states, cosmetology training may be credited toward a barbering license, and vice versa. A few states even combine the 2 licenses into 1 hairstyling license. Learn more about becoming a cosmetologist or barber today!

Take a look at a career in Cosmetology
Cosmetology can be about more than getting a new look. Are you creative? Are you passionate about working with people? Put your talents to work as a cosmetologist! A career in cosmetology could lead you to a fulfilling future.

You’ll get to express your artistic flair while you help people feel great. Finding quality cosmetology schools can help you start on the road to a meaningful career. Solid training can show you how your natural abilities could lead to professional success!

Cosmetology career information
Cosmetologists offer a wide variety of client-focused and specialized services. Cosmetology schools equip students with skills they need in shampooing, cutting, coloring and styling of hair. With the right cosmetology training, they can work closely with clients to help them determine good beauty practices. Many cosmetologists, such as nail technicians and estheticians, are trained to provide specialized services.

Most full-time cosmetologists enjoy flexible schedules and a clean, well-maintained working environment.

Licensure and education requirements
Every state has its own requirements for starting a career in cosmetology or other personal appearance work. Although qualifications for a license vary by state, usually a person should:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Be at least 16 years of age
  • Have graduated from a state-licensed cosmetology school
  • Have passed the state licensing examination

Cosmetology programs are offered in some high schools and in postsecondary schools. Full-time cosmetology programs generally last about 9 months and can offer an Associate degree. Many cosmetology professionals take advanced courses on a continual basis to stay up-to-date on current beauty trends and other cosmetology career information.

Continued growth in the cosmetology field
As the demand for highly-trained cosmetologist continues to rise, the need for skilled cosmetologists will increase. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of cosmetologists should increase by 12%. Employment of nail technicians will increase by 28%, and employment of estheticians will grow by 34%.