A Glimpse into Cosmetology School

by: Alissa Marrapodi

The decision has been made and cosmetology school is it, but now the questions start rolling in. What is cosmetology school like? How long are the programs? Will I have time to work and go to school?

The creative avenue of cosmetology offers myriad programs, program length and scheduling. Basic level services such as shampooing, cutting, coloring and styling are taught across the board. Other areas of interest such as nail care, makeup and skincare are also offered at most schools.

Program length varies depending on the school and schedule selected. Some students attend full-time enabling them to complete their courses faster. Other students attend night classes while working a full-time day job, which takes more time. A set amount of hours will have to be completed in order to graduate from a cosmetology academy. Some of those hours are spent in class while others are on the clinic floor where students are taught styling techniques, color, etc. The good news is, cosmetology school offers flexible scheduling making it possible to successfully complete a program on almost any schedule.

Every school has its own teaching methods. For example, the Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy uses techniques such as teaching methods-video, illustrations, live instructor demonstrations and textbook examples. The Cao Institute of Aesthetics in California has a three-phase approach to learning: core, adaptive and creative program. Core provides a basic introduction to hair, makeup and nails; adaptive teaches salon management and state laws; and creative teaches techniques on real customers.

Whatever school/program one chooses, the program should be preparing students for the state cosmetology board. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a state license is required for barbers, cosmetologists and most personal appearance workers, but qualifications do vary by state.

Cosmetology school is a creative schooling avenue that allows students to attend school with flexibility. The programs vary between schools but unique teaching approaches allow students to find the program that’s best suited for them.