If you are considering turning your love for hairdressing and makeup into a career, several viable options exist. You can work as a freelance makeup artist, set up your studio, assist a well-known professional, or join fashion brands or production studios. But before you embark on this exciting career journey, you must have certifications and training to showcase your professional capabilities. Before applying for hairdressing and cosmetology courses, here are a few things to know.
What is cosmetology?
A cosmetologist is a licensed professional who performs specific beauty treatments. The best cosmetologists are skilled in hair care, skincare, makeup, and nail beauty. They are very different from estheticians who are mostly focused on one aspect of beauty, such as skincare. Here are some of the hairdressing and cosmetology services they offer.
Hair cutting and coloring
Waxing
Facials
Manicures and pedicures
Eyelash extensions
What is the cost of cosmetology and hairdressing training programs?
The average cost of hairdressing and cosmetology courses can range from approximately $5,000 to $15,000. The overall cost of tuition varies based on the location and the reputation of the school. For example, if the cosmetology school is located in a bigger city like New York, you will pay more compared to a school located in San Diego. There are additional costs involved for textbooks and supplies such as hair styling tools, cosmetology products, and mannequins. Furthermore, specializations such as nail technician training or hairstylist training will add extra to the total cost of the course.
What is the duration of these courses?
Most of the full-time training programs are nine months or more. If you are already working or are unable to pursue a full-time course for some reason, you will have to dedicate about a year to a year and a half to a part-time cosmetology course. Some high schools also offer hairdressing and cosmetology training to students who have decided to pursue this career path after graduation. These training programs offer part-time classes that are of two years, which includes the student’s junior and senior years.
Are there any prerequisites for joining the cosmetology programs?
Every hairdressing and cosmetology training school has its own admission criteria. But there are two minimum requirements that are common across all training programs.
A student’s age must be at least 16 years.
A student must be a high school graduate or have an equivalent degree or diploma.
To prove the above minimum requirement, you will need to submit documentation such as your driver’s license or a state ID. In addition, you will need to provide a copy of your high school or your GED (General Education Development or General Education Diploma). Some schools require you to give letters of recommendation and personal essays. You may also have to take a few aptitude tests and go through an interview process. Furthermore, if you require financial assistance or scholarships, you will have to provide tax information of your parents.
How to find the right school?
Ask the following question when looking for a school for hairdressing and cosmetology courses.
What programs and specializations are offered?
Are the programs part-time or full-time?
Does the school have any accreditation?
Does the teaching faculty have industry experience?
Does the school help with acquiring licenses for the students?
Is there assistance with job placement?
Are there any financial aid or scholarships available?
