Cosmetology – Associate in Science Degree, Certificate of Achievement

Top Code:

3007.00

The Cosmetology program is a comprehensive curriculum to prepare students for the California State Board of Cosmetology Exam and diverse careers in the beauty industry. The curriculum encompasses theoretical and practical disciplines, featuring interactive demonstrations and hands-on applications. This training equips students to become creative professionals capable of obtaining entry-level employment as cosmetologists, nail technicians, aestheticians, salon managers, or small business owners.

The program requires a minimum of 1,000 hours, which can be completed in approximately one year with a full-time commitment. All students begin with the Intro to Cosmetology course, an introductory class that covers basic cosmetology principles and techniques. Students must have the cosmetology kit, books, and uniforms by the first week of the Intro to Cosmetology class.

After completing the Intro to Cosmetology course with a passing grade of 75% or above, students can advance to specialized classes in Haircutting, Hair Color, Hair Styling, Chemical Texture, Skin Care, Nail Care, State Board preparation, and Professional Development. Each of these classes focuses on specific aspects of the cosmetology field. To complete the program, students must pass all classes with a 75% or above grade. A class must be retaken to achieve a passing grade if it is not passed. Each class is offered twice a year, providing flexibility for part-time or full-time commitments. However, a full-time commitment is recommended to complete the program and obtain licensure within one year.

COSM 109-Salon, an elective 16-week lab class, provides salon experience and helps students accrue the necessary hours to meet board regulations. Upon successfully passing all classes and completing the 1,000-hour program, students will receive a Certificate of Achievement and be eligible to take the California State Cosmetology Exam to become licensed cosmetologists. To obtain an Associate of Science degree after completing the Cosmetology program, students must complete additional units as specified.

Students who were dropped from the program twice due to unsafe or inappropriate conduct, excessive absences, and not passing a class with a 75% or better are not eligible to re-enroll unless approved by the college Petitions Committee. Additionally, if the student is dropped from a class for the above reasons, they will not accrue hours.

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded upon completion of all required courses with a grade of C or better.
 

Student Admission and Costs: 
California State Cosmetology Board Requirement for Admission into the Cosmetology program: 

  • Proof of 10th-grade high school completion is required before enrolling in the program.


Estimated Costs

  • Tuition: $1449 - $1518 (31.5 - 33 units)
  • Kit: $1756 
  • Books: $545
  • Uniforms: $90 (average cost of scrubs $30 times 3)
  • Other Materials: $1100 (estimated cost for color, nails enhancements, and other materials

Total estimated cost for Cosmetology program:  $5000, with $2500 required during the first week to cover tuition, kit, books, uniforms, and other school-related materials

Examination Fee: $125

Students are responsible for paying the examination fee, with proof of program completion to the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

Program Outcomes

  • Enhance conversational skills and build confidence to effectively communicate with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Assess client needs and choose suitable techniques and products to achieve the desired outcomes.
  • Utilize current technology effectively to stay updated with trends in the beauty industry.
  • Collaborate efficiently as a team member in a diverse work environment.
  • Exhibit customer service skills, self-growth, and personal development to stay aligned with industry standards.

Requirements for the Certificate of Achievement

COSM 100INTRO TO COSMETOLOGY7.5
COSM 101HAIRCUTTING3
COSM 102HAIR COLOR3
COSM 103HAIRSTYLING3
COSM 104CHEMICAL TEXTURE3
COSM 105SKIN CARE3
COSM 106NAIL CARE3
COSM 107STATE BOARD3
COSM 108PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN COSMETOLOGY3
Total Units31.5

Recommended electives

COSM 109SALON1.5

Visit the Program Manager for a suggested sequence of courses.

General Education Requirements for the Associate in Science Degree