Cosmetology

Career Information

Students who complete this program could pursue a variety of careers. Here are some potential career paths:

  • Hair Stylist: Provide hair cutting, coloring, and styling services.

  • Nail Technician: Perform manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements.

  • Esthetician: Offer skincare treatments, including facials and hair removal.

  • Salon Manager: Oversee the operations of a salon, including staff management and client services.

  • Makeup Artist: Apply makeup for clients for various occasions, including events and photoshoots.

  • Cosmetology Instructor: Teach cosmetology skills in schools or training programs.

  • Product Sales Representative: Promote and sell beauty and hair care products.

  • Spa Manager: Manage the operations of a spa, including services and staff.

These careers leverage the diverse skills and knowledge gained through the program, providing a strong foundation for success in various fields.

Program Description

This program is designed to be completed in two years during the 11th and 12th grades. Cosmetology II and III are completed during the second year.

Year 1
Cosmetology I (2 credits): In this introductory course, students study hair, skin, and nails and their related care. Students are grounded in theory as they prepare to practice procedures in a clinical lab setting and classroom, using mannequins for manipulative skill practice. The first-year course emphasizes personal safety, professionalism, and sanitation and disinfection of equipment and facilities. Students develop skills in shampooing and conditioning hair, as well as styling and cutting hair. They are introduced to hair coloring and chemical texture services and develop skills in manicure and pedicure procedures.

Year 2
Cosmetology II (2 credits): Cosmetology II builds on the theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair-cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. You will be trained in safe chemical processes related to permanent waves, relaxers, lightening, and coloring hair. In addition, you will learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. You will also be introduced to a business management unit with a focus on managing a salon.

Cosmetology III (2 credits): Cosmetology III builds on the theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair-cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. You will be trained in safe chemical processes related to chemical texture services and advanced hair-coloring techniques. You will develop your artistic skills with wigs and hair additions. You will learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. An advanced business management unit focuses on managing a salon. Competency completion prepares you for the Virginia State Licensing Exam. You can combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position or internship with continuing supervision throughout the school year.

Program Structure and Benefits

Career Technical Student Organization - SkillsUSA: This organization prepares students for leadership in the world of work.

Real-World Experience: Students will gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and practices, preparing them for real-world cosmetology settings. They study and practice in fully furnished labs complete with industry-standard equipment to replicate a professional salon setting. Additionally, students have the opportunity to shadow at professional salons in the local community.

Certifications: Program completers are eligible to earn their Workplace Readiness (WRS) certification. In addition, students who complete this program are eligible to sit for the State Board of Cosmetology Exam in order to become licensed cosmetologists. Please note that eligibility to sit for the licensing exam is contingent on meeting required seat time hours.

Is This a Good Fit for You? Regular and consistent attendance is crucial to meet the seat time training hour requirement necessary for eligibility to sit for the licensing exam. Ideal candidates for this program should have a passion for hair and beauty, be ready to communicate effectively with clients, and possess strong work ethics. Students should understand that their study and practice will involve both hands-on and written components to fully prepare for licensing.

Instructors