Published September 26, 2008
Written by Grace Chen
According to statistics from the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, the field of cosmetology contributed to over 825,000 jobs in 2006, and these job numbers continue to grow. In fact, this study concluded that the employment rate of cosmetologists will grow at a faster rate than all other occupations’ averages throughout the year 2016.
As jobs in cosmetology are on the rise, community colleges are implementing more cosmetology programs to provide students with necessary skills, education, and background to succeed in the field.
What is a Cosmetologist’s Job Duties?
A cosmetologist is an individual who is certified to provide services to clients, which may include:
- Hair Cutting
- Hair Styling
- Hair Coloring
- Makeup Application
- Nail Treatments / Manicures
- Body / Skin Treatments
How Do I Become a Certified Cosmetologist?
In order to work as a cosmetologist, you must be state-licensed. To achieve this licensing, you typically must graduate from a state-licensed cosmetology program and pass an examination. Many community colleges across the country provide students with convenient and accredited programs to help students become licensed and certified practitioners.
How Do I Take the Certification Test?
As the requirements and certifications for cosmetologists vary from state to state, community college advisors can help students prepare and find the appropriate resources for state testing. For example, as the Houston Community College Systems explain, “Students who successfully complete the entire curriculum, and have met the required clock hours are qualified to take the examination for licensing given by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.” After completing the examination, “those who are approved by the state will be licensed as professional cosmetologists and will be eligible for placement.”
Community College Cosmetology Programs
Sandhill Community College
Located in Pinehurst, North Carolina, Sandhill Community College provides students with a comprehensive cosmetology program of information, training, and support. As Sandhill explains, “The Cosmetology curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific/artistic principles, and hands-on fundamentals associated with the cosmetology industry. The curriculum provides a simulated salon environment which enables students to develop employable skills.” In addition to extensive classroom and training experience, added course work includes “instruction in all phases of professional imaging, hair design, chemical processes, skin care, nail care, multi-cultural practices, business/computer principles, product knowledge, and other selected topics.”
Sandhill Community College accepts new students each semester, and also provides students with both full-time and part-time day / evening programs. Upon completing the program, students will earn a diploma and will be associated in Applied Science.
Houston Community College Systems
The Houston Community College Systems offer a variety of cosmetology degrees, including “an Associate of Applied Science or Certificate in the Cosmetology Operator course and the Cosmetology Instructor course,” in addition to “certificate programs in Facial Specialist, Manicure Specialist, and Salon Manager.”
Providing students with convenient support, the Houston Community College Systems offer diverse program options at a number of campus locations: “The Cosmetology Program is ‘hubbed’ at Northwest College and offered at three colleges. You may choose the program that is closest to the area of Houston where you live.” In addition to providing students with convenient access to classes, the program is designed to support students with classroom lectures, demonstrations, hands-on assignments, field trips, and practical applications.
The one-year program is divided into 3 semesters, although students can participate in the program either full or part-time. In total, the operator courses require 1500 hours, while the manicure and facialist programs require 600 hours. The cosmetology instructor course requires 750 hours, and can be completed in two full-time semesters.
In addition to classes, the Houston Community College Systems also provide students with added support opportunities: “Students in the Cosmetology Program get the chance to be involved in many service learning activities and organizations,” which include organizations such as “Future Cosmetologists of Houston Student Organization, National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Student Chapter, (and the) International, National and Local Hair Shows and Student Competitions.”
The Community College of Cosmetology
Located in Topeka, Kansas, The Community College of Cosmetology is a smaller program comprised of less than 200 students. This smaller venue provides students with “programs of instruction utilizing modern equipment and facilities, that will equip and prepare students for a successful career in the beauty industry.” Additionally, The Community College of Cosmetology offers “the opportunity for each student to receive the proper training needed for them to realize their full potential as a professional. We provide modern teaching aids with specialized training that best meets the needs of each student.”
If you are an aspiring cosmetologist, your local community college can be an excellent resource for achieving your licensing. Not only are the tuition rates affordable, but you can build a solid academic network that can even provide you with credits to additional degrees.
References:
The Community College of Cosmetology, available at http://www.universities.com/edu/Community_College_Of_Cosmetology.html
“Cosmetologists, Hairdressers, and Related Jobs,” available at http://careerplanning.about.com/cs/occupations/p/cosmetology.htm
Houston Community College Systems, available at http://nwc2.hccs.edu/cosmetology/faq.html
Sandhill Community College, available at http://www.sandhills.edu/degrees-programs/cosmetology/cosmetology-curriculum-description.html
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