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College Programs in Cosmetology

Get Your Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in CosmetologySpecializations for Your Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Cosmetology

The beauty industry has plenty of jobs for cosmetologists, nail technicians, and skin care specialists with certificates in their specialties! Live and work almost anywhere or start your own salon and be truly independent. Cosmetology degrees can be earned in about two years and then you're ready to go to work. Stay in school a little longer and you'll learn all the business skills you need to be a successful entrepreneur working with interesting people—and making them feel beautiful every day.

Choosing the Right Cosmetology SchoolChoosing the Right School for Cosmetology

Local beauty colleges offer students small class sizes, hands-on instruction, and plenty of practice. It's a good idea to request free information from each of the featured cosmetology schools listed on this page because they offer different courses and degrees—and some schools specialize in particular areas of career training. Most states require cosmetologists to be licensed, which means you must graduate from an accredited school of cosmetology before taking the licensing exam. Look for credentials in the information packages.

College & Career Training Programs in CosmetologyCareer Training Programs in Cosmetology

Estheticians and other skin care specialists are in big demand with employers, so you could major in skin care to ensure a great job after graduation. As you earn a cosmetology degree, you'll learn a little about each aspect of personal care as well as business skills. All cosmetologists must be licensed in the state in which they work, so make sure your degree program prepares you for licensing exams. Once you've earned a certificate, diploma, or AS degree, you can take the exam and begin applying for jobs or continue your schooling in related cosmetology subjects.

Job Outlook for Cosmetology College GraduatesJob Outlook for Beauty School Graduates

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job opportunities for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists will grow by 20 percent in the next ten years—a huge leap in employment. Openings at full-service salons and spas offering hair, nails, skin care and makeup services are expected to grow at almost double that pace, creating more jobs than there are qualified workers. Close to half of all personal care workers are self-employed and own their own salons or rent space in an established salon.

College Courses in Cosmetology Courses You Might Take in Cosmetology School

A typical cosmetology program grants you a degree in one school year (nine months). This starter degree can get you an entry-level job in an established salon so you can hone your creativity. It's a good idea to take courses in salon management as well even if you're not quite ready to start your own salon. Learning the business of cosmetology makes you a more capable employee. In cosmetology school, you'll take courses in make up and skin care, aesthetics and esthiology, and have the opportunity to expand your knowledge into other beauty industry disciplines such as manicure and pedicures. Once you learn the basics, you'll practice while still in school.

Key benefits of getting a college degree in Cosmetology Benefits of getting a college degree in Cosmetology

  • Plenty of job opportunities
  • Learn management and business skills
  • Rewarding careers making people feel good
  • Get your degree in as little as 9 months
  • Continuous learning advances your career
  • Glamorous jobs in fashion, TV and movies
  • Teach clients how to be beautiful
  • Use the power of your creativity
  • Work full-time or part-time with flexible hours
  • Interact with a variety of people every day

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