Students learn how to style, cut and color hair, skin care, make-up techniques, plus manicuring, pedicures, and nail art. Cosmetologists may work in a wide variety of related occupations including salon work, sales, theatrical make-up and hair styling.
Many alumni now own cosmetic businesses and salons.
The cosmetology occupation is governed by stringent state laws which stipulate that all who enter the trade must complete 1600 hours of training in an authorized school. Students must then pass a comprehensive examination of both written and practical work before being awarded a license to practice. Completion of the 10th grade or the passing of a 10th grade equivalency examination is required by the state before the student may take the state board examination. The cosmetology classrooms resemble well equipped salons. The cosmetology instructors are professionals who have extensive training in salon work.