Cosmetology Degree- Become a Cosmetologist!

Education and Training

In order to obtain a cosmetology degree, a high school diploma or GED is usually required. All 50 states require barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers to be licensed, with the exceptions of shampooers and makeup artists. The best way for a cosmetologist to get licensed is to go to a cosmetology school. Public and private vocational cosmetology schools offer both day and evening classes. Full-time cosmetology certification generally lasts anywhere between 9 to 24 months.

Other Qualifications

Cosmetologists are generally in good health and have great stamina. These two qualities are important to cosmetology specialists because they are constantly on their feet and moving around.

Employment Opportunities

After completing your cosmetology certification, there are a few different career paths you may pursue. These include:

• Barber
• Cosmetologist
• Nail Technicians

A barber cuts, trims, shampoos, and styles hair mostly for male clients. Barbers may fit hairpieces and offer scalp treatments and facial shaving. In many States, barbers are licensed to color, bleach, or highlight hair and to offer permanent-wave services. Barbers also may provide skin care and nail treatments.

A cosmetologist offers a wide range of beauty services. Cosmetologists shampoo, cut, color, and style hair. Cosmetologists often advise clients on how to care for their hair at home. In addition, cosmetologists may be trained to give manicures, pedicures, and scalp and facial treatments; provide makeup analysis; and clean and style wigs and hairpieces.

Nail Technicians work exclusively on nails and provide manicures, pedicures, polishing, and nail extensions to clients. A separate certification can be taken for this cosmetology career path, or it can be learned on the job.

Job Outlook and Salary

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for individuals with a cosmetology certification are expected to grow about as fast as the average occupation through 2014. The Bureau reports that the median annual earnings for cosmetologists in May 2005 was $23,340. However, factors such as size and location of the salon, clients’ tipping habits and competition from salons all determine the total income of cosmetologists. Selling hair care products gives cosmetologists an additional source of income.