Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Cosmetologist?

A Career in Cosmetology: Rewarding Job Opportunities

So you want to become a cosmetologist! Good choice--the demand for specialists who provide services to help clients look and feel their best is on the rise. And the benefits can be very rewarding. But whether your goal is to open a full-service spa, do hair-styling for the movies, or carve out a part-time beauty beat to secure your future, you want to consider the following requirements to become a cosmetologist:

Get Licensed as a Cosmetologist
All states require cosmetologists to be licensed. Qualifications for a license vary by state, but generally you must have a high school diploma or GED, be at least 16 years of age, and have graduated from a state-licensed cosmetology school. After graduation, you must take a state-licensing examination which consists of a written test and, in some cases, a practical test of styling skills or an oral exam. (Most states require separate licensing examinations for manicurists, pedicurists, and skin care specialists.)

Job opportunities for cosmetologists are predicted to be best for those licensed to provide a wide range of services. Jobs for estheticians and other skin care specialists are expected to grow as more high-tech procedures to enhance complexion become available.

Be Your Own Billboard
And don't neglect the obvious (but still essential) requirements of maintaining your own personal appearance and developing interpersonal skills. People in the beauty business should look attractive and keep a clean work area. People skills, image, and attitude also play an important role in career success. As keeping clients happy and selling beauty products become a bigger part of a salon's business, the role of salesperson becomes ever more important. Some cosmetology schools require coursework in this area.




The following colleges offer programs that can help you become qualified for a Cosmetologist career:
  Virginia College

Ready to earn a well-respected degree? Need a flexible schedule? Virginia College can help. Become an office superstar with our business program. Or make a difference in your community by earning a paralegal or Criminal Justice degree. Can't get enough of your computer? Try our programs in Information Systems or Cybersecurity. No matter what program you choose, you'll get the top-quality education you deserve with an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College.

  Fortis Institute

At Fortis Institute, we provide students with the skills and training they need to prepare for a variety of in-demand career fields, including Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Dental Assistant, and Medical Business & Clinical Specialist. We offer qualified instructors, personalized attention, career services for our graduates, and much more. Programs vary by location. Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information.

  Empire Beauty Schools

At Empire Beauty Schools, we give you the knowledge and hands-on training you need to launch a career in the cosmetology field. All of our teachers are trained to give personal attention to every student, including career guidance and special instruction classes. And every Empire Beauty School is fully equipped with modern salon furniture and cosmetology tools to prepare for successful careers. Financial assistance is available for qualified students.

  Vatterott College

Vatterott College's innovative, hands-on training helps you build the life you want. Everything we teach has practical, real-world value. Earn your Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor's degree in Trade, Technology, Healthcare, Design, or Administrative fields and start your future. Vatterott College's expert instructors and flexible schedules enable you to get the skills employers demand—fast. When can you start?

  Marinello Schools of Beauty

Get started on your beauty career with training from Marinello Schools of Beauty. We are the largest and longest-established chain of beauty schools serving Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. Our schools are designed to simulate a salon environment for the purpose of beauty education, providing practical, hands-on training. Each campus is equipped with the latest visual and teaching aids, as well as cutting-edge professional beauty equipment on par with the top salons in America.

  The Hair Design School

Get started on your career with the Hair Design School. We offer training for careers as a cosmetologist. Our programs provide students with hands-on training utilizing the latest skills and professional tools. Students also get to work on real clients in our student salon.



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