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Becoming a Licensed Cosmetologist Through an Online Cosmetology School

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If you are thinking about becoming a licensed cosmetologist, but you already have a full schedule that limits the time you have available for study, you may want to consider earning an online cosmetology degree. Online beauty schools are the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in beginning a career in cosmetology, or even for professionals who need to renew their licensure.  This article explains how you can become a board-certified cosmetologist through distance learning.

Education

Most states require that cosmetologists have a high school diploma or the equivalent. In order to work as a licensed cosmetologist, you will need to complete a course at a board certified cosmetology or beauty school.  In addition to courses in hair care and styling, skin care, massage, manicure and pedicure techniques, and make-up application, you may also be required to study anatomy, physiology, and chemistry.  Many prospective cosmetologists also take business courses such as salon management to assist them in their careers.

Certification

Once you have completed all necessary course work, you will need to take a state licensing exam. All states require that any individual working as a cosmetologist or beautician be certified by the appropriate state board.  There is generally a licensing fee, which may need to be renewed on a periodic basis.

Job Description

If you enjoy working with your hands, dealing with people on a personal level, and helping others to look and feel their best, cosmetology can be an exciting and rewarding career choice. A typical work day for a certified cosmetologist may include consulting with clients, performing a variety of personal care services (such cutting, coloring, perming and styling hair, manicures and pedicures, facials, hair removal, and eyebrow grooming), cleaning and maintenance of work stations, and various administrative tasks.

Workplace

Cosmetologists most commonly work at a beauty salon or day spa, either as an employee or independent contractor. Some beauticians may work in a hotel or resort setting, while others are employed as make-up artists or stylists in film or television.  Experienced cosmetologists may also work as editors or consultants for beauty and fashion publications.

Employment Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the cosmetology field are expected to increase by at least 20 percent over the next decade – much faster than the average growth rate for other career fields. Entry-level positions should be widely available, with more competition for high-level jobs in the cosmetology field.

Finding Online Schools for Cosmetology

Many high schools, community colleges, and vocational schools offer cosmetology courses. For those who prefer to study on their own time, or who have a full-time job that prevents them from attending a conventional school, online cosmetology schools can provide quality instruction in this exciting career field.  As you search for a distance learning course, be sure that the school you choose is certified by a state cosmetology board.

Do you enjoy working closely with others on an intimate level? Do you like the idea of helping people to feel and look their personal best?  If so, a career in cosmetology may be a good choice for you.  Cosmetologists use their creativity, technical skill, and esthetic sense to bring out the beauty in their clients.  With accredited online courses for cosmetology, you can earn your degree in just a few short months and get started on this exciting and highly rewarding career.

What is a cosmetologist?

A licensed cosmetologist works closely with clients, consulting with them on their personal care and appearance needs. Cosmetologists, or beauticians, can offer advice on the best care for a particular skin or hair type; they can cut straighten, and perm hair in the latest styles, and add color and highlights.  They may also perform facials, massage, waxing and other hair removal techniques, manicures, and pedicures.  A skilled cosmetologist can transform their clients, bringing out their inner beauty and helping them to feel their best.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a cosmetologist?

Most states require that prospective cosmetology students have at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. In order to obtain licensure to practice cosmetology, you must attend a board-certified cosmetology or beauty school.  The initial coursework typically takes about five months; upon completion, you will need to take a comprehensive exam administered by the state in which you intend to work.  Passing the test will qualify you to practice as a certified cosmetologist.

Can I take cosmetology courses online, on my own time?

Whether you are working full time, you have family obligations, or you simply prefer to study in the comfort of your own home, you can now take online cosmetology courses from accredited institutions and receive your certificate in cosmetology.   A quality online cosmetology school can help you get your degree in less than a year and get you started on a rewarding career as a licensed cosmetologist.

Can I get my board certification if I take cosmetology classes online?

When you complete all necessary coursework through an approved online cosmetology school, you will be eligible to take your state-administered certification exam and practice as a licensed cosmetologist.

What kinds of subjects are covered by online cosmetology classes?

When you study cosmetology online, you will cover a wide range of material. These may include practical subjects such as hair care, styling, chemical treatments, massage, nail and skin care, and other salon service techniques.  In addition, you may be asked to take courses such as business management, anatomy, physiology, and ethical practices.

How much does a cosmetologist make each year?

Although starting salaries for cosmetologists are modest – ranging around $8-9 per hour, an experienced cosmetologist who has established a healthy client base can earn a good deal more. Depending on where you work, you may earn over $50,000 per year working full time.

Those who work in the cosmetology industry report a high degree of satisfaction with their jobs. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career, why not enroll in cosmetology school and see where it leads you?

What Do You Have To Do To Become a Cosmetologist?

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Before taking the licensing exam and entering the field, cosmetologist students must first complete a certain level of traditional education and a state-approved beauty school program.  The exact requirements you’ll need to meet will depend on your home state, so it’s important to contact your state’s licensing board before you leave high school and enroll in a cosmetology program.

For example, in Michigan, you must complete a ninth-grade education and an approved cosmetology program – enrolling in an unapproved course will only set you back in the licensing process.

Choosing a Cosmetology Program

Depending on your geographic location, your choices in cosmetology programs may be limited.  Most community colleges and technical programs offer one- or two-year programs to prepare you for the licensing exam.  These programs include a variety of courses on everything from cutting techniques to cosmetology theory to the customer service skills you’ll need to work in the field.

If possible, try to get reviews from former students who have graduated from the program you’re thinking about attending.  Ask how well they felt the program prepared them for their careers and how easy it was for them to find jobs after graduation.

If you have more than one option to consider, look into what each specific curriculum will cover.  How many hours are spent in lecture and how many will be spent in the lab, learning about cosmetology hands-on?  While it’s important to study the theory behind cosmetology, hands-on training is where you’ll really develop your skills.  Don’t be afraid to contact the professors before enrolling to ask what specific techniques they teach.  For example, if you eventually want to specialize in highlights and hair coloring, you’ll want to find a teacher who specializes in the latest techniques in that field.

In addition, you may want to look into a product-specific training program, depending on your professional interests.  For example, the Aveda Institute offers an approved cosmetology program in many states that focuses on using Aveda’s natural products as part of a holistic hair care approach.  If you aren’t yet sure what you want to specialize in, a general focus program will give you a good introduction to the many areas and products involved in the cosmetology field.

Practical Considerations

If you have a family, or plan to balance your training with a full-time job, you may want to look for a program that offers flexible scheduling or night courses.  Fortunately, more and more beauty schools are offering these alternative courses in response to the changing demands of students’ lives.  Money is also a concern, so be sure to add up what each individual program will cost you.  Be sure to take into account the amount of money you’ll need to spend on supplies and materials – some programs include these in their fees, while others charge as much as $2,000 on top of tuition fees.  If the cost of a beauty school program still seems out of reach for you, ask the schools if they offer any scholarships or loans to help offset the amount of tuition you’ll pay.

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Degree or Certification in Cosmetology?

While the total time needed depends on the school you choose to attend and whether you take classes full- or part-time, the average time needed to complete a cosmetology degree is approximately 9 months.

What do I need to do to get certified to work as a cosmetologist?

Once you complete your coursework through an approved cosmetology school, you will need to pass an exam administered by your state’s cosmetology licensing board.  Once you have received licensure, you will be able to work as a certified cosmetologist.  You may be required to pay a licensing fee on a periodic basis, and you may need to update your certification with new coursework from time to time.

Will I be able to find a job as a cosmetologist once I earn my degree?

Cosmetology jobs are on the rise; even with the current economic problems, entry-level positions in cosmetology are expected to increase faster than the average rate for other types of employment over the next decade.  Due to high turnover, finding an entry-level position should be fairly easy, although competition is tougher for higher-level employment.

If you are interested in a career working closely with others, helping to bring out their inner beauty, cosmetology school is a fantastic way to get started.  Look for accredited cosmetology schools online or in your area, and get started on your way to a satisfying and rewarding career.

Beginning a Career in Cosmetology: How Much is Tuition for a Cosmetology Degree or Certification?

If you have decided to study cosmetology, congratulations!  You have made the first step toward starting a rewarding career.  You probably have some questions about the field of cosmetology and how you can earn your degree and licensure.  We can answer these questions for you; where to find a cosmetology school, how much is cosmetology tuition, and everything else you need to know to get started.

What kind of training will I need?

Before you can work as a cosmetologist, you will need to attend an approve cosmetology school.  Whether you take courses online or at a traditional beauty academy, you will need to complete all required coursework in cosmetology procedures, as well as learning to manage a salon.

How much does it cost to become a cosmetologist?

Depending on the cosmetology school you enroll in, tuition can range from $5,000 to $12,000.  In addition to your enrollment fees, you may also be asked to pay for supplies, such as coloring, straightening and perm solutions, equipment and supplies.  Many cosmetology schools offer financial aid for qualified applicants.

How can I get my license to work as a cosmetologist?

Once you complete your cosmetology degree, you will be required to pass a comprehensive exam given by your state cosmetology licensing board.  Passing this exam will make you eligible to work as a certified cosmetologist.  You may need to pay an annual fee to keep your license up to date, as well as take periodic refresher courses in new cosmetology procedures.

Obtaining Your Cosmetology License

Cosmetology is much more than just cutting hair – as a professional stylist, you’ll be expected to be familiar with the latest cutting techniques, color formulations and product offerings.  To learn all these things – and to earn the license you’ll need to practice cosmetology in your state – you’ll need to attend an approved cosmetology program.  However, there are a wide variety of beauty school programs – some good and some bad – so you’ll need to do your research before you sign up.  Consider the following advice before choosing a cosmetology program.
Like many other careers, you’ll need a license to work as a cosmetologist.  Typically, you’ll need to complete a state-approved educational program before taking your licensing exam, which involves both written segments and practical, hands-on skills tests.

Practicing without a license can lead to serious consequences, so it’s important to follow the specific rules in your state before you begin working.  The following are some of the requirements you’ll need to fulfill before obtaining your license:

Minimum age

Different states have different licensing requirements, but almost all states require applicants to be a minimum age before applying for their licenses.  Typically, the age is somewhere between 16-18 years of age – again, it’s important to do your homework and find out what the specific requirement is in your home state.

Minimum education level

Most states require cosmetology license applicants to have completed a certain level of K-12 education in order to qualify to receive a license.  In Michigan, for example, applicants must have completed a ninth-grade education, while other state’s requirements range from an eighth-grade education to a high school diploma.  The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that cosmetologists entering the field have the basic language and math skills necessary to work in the industry.

Completion of an approved cosmetology program

Beyond traditional K-12 education, cosmetologists need to attend and satisfactorily complete a state-approved cosmetology program before applying for a license.  In these programs, you’ll learn both the theory and techniques of cosmetology.  It is this training that will prepare you to carry out the day-to-day tasks of a cosmetologist.

If you’re currently in the process of applying to cosmetology programs, it’s extremely important to be sure your program is approved by the state – otherwise, you may be required to complete a second program before taking your licensing exam.  If you have any doubts, contact your state’s licensing agency before you sign up for classes.

Completion of an apprenticeship program

Some states require cosmetology license applicants to complete a certain number of hours in an apprenticeship program before they’re eligible to take the licensing exam.  Some states specify where and how the apprenticeship can be carried out, while others allow applicants to work at any facility until they accrue the required number of hours.  Again, check with your state’s licensing board to find out what the specific requirements are in your area.

License application

Once you’ve completed your required educational programs and apprenticeship hours, you’ll likely have to go through an application process before you can take your exam.  Your state will typically require you to prove that you’ve completed each step in the process, either through online forms or mail-in application documents.  When your application has been approved, you can sign up for the final step in the process – the licensing exam.

Licensing exam

The specifics of what you’ll be tested on varies based on your state, but, in most cases, you’ll take a written test and demonstrate your skills through a practical exam.  Many states offer study guides to help you prepare, and you should definitely take advantage of these opportunities.  If you pass your exam, you’ll be mailed your license and will be considered eligible to begin working as a full-fledged cosmetologist.

Careers in Cosmetology

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As a cosmetologist, you will provide services to help enhance the appearance of your clients. This may include offering hair care services, make-up, manicures and pedicures, as well as skin care. Most individuals entering a career as a cosmetologist choose to specialize in providing a single service.

Education requirements for cosmetologists include completion of a certification program. These can often be finished in well under a year. Upon completion of the program, the individual will need to meet the requirements for licensing in their state. This is usually met by completion of cosmetology school, a high school diploma (or GED), and the successful passing of a licensing exam.

Cosmetology Education and Training

A high school diploma or GED is required for those interested becoming cosmetologists. You will also need to complete a licensure program. Cosmetology school is required to complete the licensure in most states.

Duties of a Cosmetologist

The field of cosmetology is broad. You may choose to specialize as a hair stylist, nail technician, make-up artist or skin care.

Cosmetology Work Environment

Cosmetologists spend much of their day standing and bending. They often work 40-hours a week, or even more, especially those that are self-employed. It is very common to work evenings and weekends, or whenever clients can come in.

According to the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, a cosmetologist is, “anyone performing manicures, hair cutting, styling, shampooing, makeup or other cosmetology services.” With this in mind, it’s easy to see how varied the career opportunities available to cosmetologists can be.

What is a Cosmetologist?

The title of cosmetologist covers several different job specifications, including hair dresser, shampooer, skin care specialist, manicurist, and pedicurist. Cosmetology encompasses many different aspects of the personal care industry.

Where can I find cosmetology information and learn how to obtain certification?

You can learn everything you know about cosmetology through an online distance learning course. An accredited online cosmetology school can help you fulfill all of the course requirements to become a licensed cosmetologist.  Once you have completed all of the necessary coursework, you will need to take a comprehensive exam administered by your state cosmetology licensing board; passing this exam will make you eligible to work as a beautician in your state.

Where does a cosmetologist work?

A licensed cosmetologist may work in a variety of different settings. While the majority of beauticians work in a spa or salon, either as a direct employee or an independent contractor, hotels, resorts and cruise ships may also hire cosmetologists to care for their guests.  If you are interested in the film or television industries, you may find work on-set as a stylist or makeup artist.  Some cosmetologists, especially those with years of experience, may work as editors for beauty magazines.

What are some advantages of being a cosmetologist?

Working as a licensed cosmetologist has numerous advantages. For those who enjoy helping others, there is the satisfaction of helping clients to look and feel their best; flexible hours, the chance to open your own salon business, and the ability to improve your salary as you gain experience are also some of the benefits of cosmetology work.

Employment facts for licensed cosmetologists

There are currently over 800,000 licensed cosmetologists working in the United States, and this number is expected to increase dramatically over the next decade. Beginning salaries, including tips, for a certified cosmetologist average around $8.00 per hour; salon workers with more experience may earn as much as $14 per hour.  If you own your own salon or work in a high-end establishment, your annual salary can be much higher.

History of the Cosmetology Industry

Cosmetology, the study and practice of beauty treatment, has its roots in prehistory. Although it is impossible to say who started cosmetology, cosmetics have been used for thousands of years to enhance the features, mimic animals, frighten enemies, or for religious rites since before civilization began.  Cosmetics of various types have been used by both men and women throughout the ages; the following is a brief history of the cosmetology industry through time.

The first cosmetics were used by tribal peoples who spread a paste made of mud or ash over their bodies; it is believed that this was done to frighten hostile tribes or to ward off evil spirits. Around 4000 BC, the ancient Egyptians began their use of heavy eyeliner, made from mercury or lead, ash, and other materials, to enhance the shape of their eyes.  In addition, the upper classes often rubbed ground carob or spices into their skin as a deodorant.  The ancient Chinese nobles also used cosmetics made from beeswax and various plant dyes to create makeup for their skin, as well as coloring their nails.

The first known “professional” cosmetologists were Roman slave women, known as “cosmetae,” whose job was to prepare makeup (often using highly toxic materials, including, as with the Egyptians, mercury and lead). Heavy, greasy lotions were applied to the skin to cover imperfections, and women wore eyeliner, nail color, and powders to lighten their complexion.  Men and women alike wore meticulously made wigs to transform their appearance.

Throughout the Asia and the Middle East, henna products have been used for centuries, both to decorate the skin and to color the hair. Worldwide, the elite of society, and more recently, the middle classes, have used makeup prolifically to improve their appearance and gain social acceptance.

Even during Victorian times, when use of brightly colored cosmetics by ladies was considered immodest, a makeup made of beeswax was used to disguise the skin damage left by smallpox (which led to the invention of the fire screen, an often elaborate furnishing which was used to block the heat of the fire from a lady’s face, preventing the beeswax from melting).

With the invention of film, and then television, cosmetics reached a new level of popularity and social acceptance, as everyone scrambled to look like their favorite movie and TV stars. Throughout the 20th century, major advances have been made, with the invention of chemical peels, tanning lotions, and thousands of new color shades for powders, eye shadows, eyeliners, lipsticks and more.  Now, cosmetic surgery is becoming a common way for women, as well as men, to look younger, transform their appearance, and improve their self-esteem.

Popular Cosmetology Jobs

Hair Styling

One of the largest divisions in cosmetology includes those professionals who are involved in the washing, cutting and styling of hair. Within this category, a cosmetologist can specialize in either men’s or women’s hair.

Typically, cosmetologists who cut men’s hair are known as barbers, while those who cut women’s hair have no such distinction. A cosmetologist may be responsible for washing hair, cutting and styling it, or applying color products.  Larger salons may employ several different specialists – for example, one or more staff members who focus solely on bridal up-dos – while cosmetologists at smaller salons may be expected to handle all of these tasks themselves.

Nail Care

Instead of working with hair, some professional stylists focus on providing manicures and pedicures to clients. As a nail care specialist, you’ll trim, file and shape your client’s nails, apply polish and strengthening agents, and attach or maintain acrylic nails.

Consequently, you’ll need to stay on top of emerging nail fashion trends, be familiar with different nail products and tools and maintain a clean, hygienic workstation. Some manicurists find jobs at unisex salons that also offer hair services, while others work at boutique nail care shops.

Makeup Application

Finally, there’s another group of cosmetologists who focus exclusively on applying makeup and instructing clients on the proper application of cosmetics. Larger salons often employ makeup artists for the sole purpose of applying formal makeup for bridal parties and other special events, while some salons offer instructional lessons that help clients learn the correct way to apply makeup to their unique bone structure and coloration.  Makeup artists may also be employed in the fashion, TV or movie industries, where they develop makeup looks for models and actors.

Potential for Advancement

Typically, there are two paths for advancement in the cosmetology field. Depending on your skills and experience, you may be able to work your way up the hierarchy of your salon or get a job at a higher-end salon where you’ll be able to charge higher rates for your services.  This can be a difficult path, since you’ll need to justify any increase in your fees, and you may face animosity from colleagues who aren’t at your level.  You may also lose clients in the process if they feel priced out of your new fee structure.

On the other hand, once you’ve worked in the field for a number of years, you may decide to open your own salon. While your income potential is significantly higher going this route, it does come with a number of extra responsibilities.  You’ll have to rent your own space and deal with the legal and tax implications that come with owning your own business.  You’ll also need to recruit stylists to work for you, monitor their work and address any customer complaints that arise.  However, the satisfaction you derive from owning your own successful business may be enough to balance out these concerns.

How you can start a career as a beautician or cosmetologist

If you have a high school diploma or the equivalent, you enjoy working with others to make them look and feel better about themselves, and you are looking for a rewarding career, studying cosmetology could be the right move for you. Read on for more information about cosmetology and how you can get started on your new vocation.

Cosmetology Careers: What Skills Do You Need to be a Cosmetologist?

What type of person makes a good cosmetologist?

The best cosmetologists understand not only the technical and aesthetic aspects of the job, but are warm and personable, outgoing, and enjoy working with their hands. Because they need to be available at their clients’ convenience, cosmetologists should be willing to work nights and weekends if necessary.

What are the requirements for becoming a cosmetologist?

In order to become a licensed cosmetologist, you will need to attend an accredited cosmetology or beauty school. Most schools offer business courses such as salon management, as well as chemistry, biology, and anatomy, in addition to courses in hair care and styling, makeup application, hair removal, and other beauty-related subjects.

Most beauty schools require that you have a high school diploma or the equivalent, although this can vary – you will need to check with specific schools about their enrollment requirements. Most state licensing boards require that you have at least 1500 hours of training.  In order to obtain licensing, which is required in all 50 states, candidates must pass a comprehensive licensing examination.

A typical day as a cosmetologist

A licensed cosmetologist is a professional who treats hair, skin, and nails, helping clients to look their personal best. They may advise clients on skin care, offer styling and care tips tailored to their clients’ hair type, and provide manicure and pedicure services.  A cosmetologist is generally a graduate of a specialized beauty school and is licensed by the state in which he or she intends to practice.  If you are thinking about a career in cosmetology, you probably want to know what a typical day as a cosmetologist is like.

What does a cosmetologist do?

During a typical work day, a licensed cosmetologist has a wide variety of duties. He or she may have appointments with a number of clients or accept customers on a walk-in basis.  The cosmetologist will consult with clients, offering them advice and discussing the various services to be performed.  These may include:

  • Cutting, coloring, highlighting, styling, straightening, or perming the hair;
  • Makeup, facials, scrubs and other skin care treatments;
  • Manicures and/or pedicures;
  • Massage;
  • Waxing, electrolysis, and other hair removal techniques;
  • Eyebrow grooming.

While cosmetologists can typically perform most of these services, it is common for each individual working in a salon or spa to specialize in a particular area.

In addition to these services, a cosmetologist may be responsible for cleaning and maintaining his or her work station and equipment, as well as answering telephones, scheduling appointments, and other administrative work. Licensed cosmetologists may be employed by a salon, or they may rent or lease space in a beauty shop as a contractor.

How can I become a cosmetologist?

If you are creative and have a strong sense of esthetics, you are warm and personable, and you enjoy working with others on a close, personal level, cosmetology can be an excellent career choice. In order to become a licensed cosmetologist, you will need to complete a course at an accredited beauty school.  In addition to course work in hair and skin care, hair removal, make-up application, and other beauty techniques, you will be required to take classes in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and salon management.

Once you have completed your course work, you will need to pass a state-administered licensing exam. After receiving your certification, you will be qualified to practice as a licensed cosmetologist in your state.

Where do cosmetologists work?

Most licensed cosmetologists work in a beauty salon, a spa, or a hotel or resort setting. Some may offer their clients in-home consultations and services, while others may work on the sets of television or film studios.