COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL PROGRAMS

What are the most common programs that beauty schools offer?
Most schools offer the following programs, or a combination of the following programs; cosmetology, esthetics, electrolysis, nail technology, and teacher training. Massage therapy is becoming an increasingly popular program offered at beauty and cosmetology schools.

What is cosmetology?
The American Heritage dictionary defines cosmetology as "The study or art in cosmetics and their use". When beauty schools say they offer a full cosmetology program it generally refers to the study of hair styling, skin-care, nail care, and make-up. More about cosmetology.

What is esthetics?
A beauty school offering a program in esthetics training refers to the study of applying make-up and performing facials, massages, waxing, and reflexology. More about esthetics.

What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis is medically recognized as being a permanent hair removal method for the face and body.

What is nail technology?
A nail technologist studies the art of nail art and design, tips, forms, wraps, and gels. More about Nail Schools.

What is teacher training?
Teacher training programs are designed to prepare students who are interested in teaching beauty and cosmetology. Most of the teachers you'll have in beauty school completed a teacher training program. More about Teacher Training.

What is permanent make-up?
Permanent make-up is a creative and growing industry. It's attracting individuals who are looking to get into the beauty or medical profession. More about Permanent Make-Up.

What is massage therapy?
Massage therapists manipulate clients' soft tissues, which improves circulation and acts as a cleanser for muscles.

Massage therapy is practiced by trained and licensed professionals. They provide specialized care with their clients' medical health in mind. More about massage therapy.

How long will it take me to complete a program?

This depends on three factors: which beauty program you enroll in, your state's required hours for that program, and whether you enroll in cosmetology school on a part-time or full-time basis.

A full cosmetology curriculum is the most comprehensive and requires the most training hours; the national average is 1,400 to 1,600 hours. The average training hours required for the other beauty programs are as follow: 650 for nail technology, 500 for electrology, and 300 for esthetics and skin care.

In most cases the individual state's required beauty training hours are determined by the state licensing board. For example, a full cosmetology program in Montana requires 2,000 hours, while the same program in New York State only requires 1,000 hours.

Regardless of which beauty program you take, exactly how long it will take to complete the required training hours will depend on whether you are enrolled full time or part time. Many full cosmetology programs can be competed in less than two years while some programs in nail technology and esthetics can often be completed within six months. Contact beauty schools or cosmetology licensing boards for more information for your specific state.


What are "advanced courses' and does it matter if the school I'm considering offers them?

"Advanced beauty courses" refers to a class that offers a very-in-depth and focused curriculum about a particular topic. Before taking an "advanced class" students will likely be required to have taken basic classes in the same beauty program. If you already know you want to pursue a career in a specific field of beauty such as custom hair coloring, acrylic nails or something else, it is a good idea to find a beauty school to attend that offers advanced beauty classes in your niche or specific area of interest. More education in your beauty trade is essential to becoming a true, trusted expert in your field and advanced beauty courses are the perfect way to continue that education. Find advanced beauty courses and continuing education in cosmetology by searching our featured beauty schools.

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