Welcome To The Cosmetology Academy at Douglas Education Center (DEC)
• Programs in hair, skin, nails, and cosmetology education
• Students taught by instructors with real-world experience
• State-of-the-art equipment in a salon atmosphere
• An in-house clinic, open to the public, on campus

Besides cosmetology, DEC also offers programs in the fields of art and film. Included in the art program is Tom Savini's Special Make-up Effects Program:

• Courses offered in Fashion and Performance Make-Up, Cosmetic Make-Up, Hair and Beards, Sculpting, and much more
• Students taught by industry professionals with vast movie and television experience
• Facilities modeled after a shop atmosphere with rooms for mold making, foam mixing, make-up application, photography, and more

Cosmetology and special make-up effects students have the opportunity to collaborate with students from other creative programs on projects and events.

Most programs offer the convenience of three start dates every year and financial aid is available to those who qualify. Housing is available through Boss Development.


Programs
General Cosmetology
Diploma Program
This 12-month full-time program is designed to assist the student in successfully passing the State Board of Cosmetology Licensing Examination. Teachers will prepare the students for careers in cosmetology using lecture and lab components. Students are given hands-on experience, as well as the practical theory, in areas such as shampooing, hair shaping, hair styling, permanent waving, hair color, hair straightening, skin care, manicuring, scalp treatment and overall care of hair types and textures.

This program prepares the student to comprehend and understand the practices of cosmetology including areas of professional attitude, salon management, bacteriology, sterilization and sanitation. Students will study the sciences of cosmetology including such topics as histology, trichology, chemistry, physiology, cosmetic dermatology and electricity.

The Master Cosmetology Program
Associate in Specialized Business Degree Program
The Master Cosmetology Program is a five (5) semester Associate in Specialized Business Degree Program that prepares the student to sit for the State Board of Cosmetology Examination in addition to allowing them to choose an area of specialization in the cosmetology field. During the fourth semester the student will be given the opportunity to choose an area of concentration for his or her final semester from the areas of Esthetics, Nail Technology or Cosmetology Teacher.

The Esthetics concentration in skin care will be directed toward teaching the student the latest skin care techniques, including European facials, skin re-surfacing and makeup techniques. The Nail Technology concentration will focus on the art and science of nail enhancements and nail illustration. The Cosmetology Teacher concentration will provide the students with the skills needed to develop and write curricula, lesson plans and deal with various teaching techniques. Upon completion of the Cosmetology Teacher concentration, the student will be eligible to sit for the State Board of Cosmetology Teacher Examination.

Cosmetology Teacher Program
Diploma Program
This four-month program will prepare the student for an entry-level instructional position within the field of Cosmetology. Students who wish to enter into the Instructor Program must graduate from an approved 1250 clock hour program in cosmetology (or its equivalent) prior to being accepted into the Cosmetology Teacher program.

The student will be taught teaching techniques for subject matter related to cosmetology curricula. Professional Practices and Salon Management will give the student a well-rounded view of the field of cosmetology instruction. Students will be exposed to teaching methods and techniques and will learn how to prepare lesson plans, course outlines, make classroom presentations and demonstrations, and understand the various student evaluation methods. There will be practical experience in clinical management under direct supervision of the instructor. Students will be taught the rules and regulations of the Pennsylvania Board of Cosmetology required to obtain a teacher's license.

Nail Technology Program
Certificate Program
This 15 credit, 330-clock hour program provides the student with an opportunity to obtain an exciting and rewarding career in Nail Technology. This program teaches the student the basics of manicuring and pedicuring, as well as advanced techniques and skills used in applying nail enhancements such as acrylic overlays, sculptured nails, nail wraps and gel nails. Students will be taught creative applications for nail art and airbrushing. The student is taught the professional skills needed for interaction with clients. Upon completion of this program students will be able to sit for the Pennsylvania State Board Examination for Nail Technician.

Esthetician Program
Certificate Program
This 22 credit, 450-clock hour program qualifies the student for an advanced position in the field of esthetics. The student will acquire a broad range of knowledge in customized facial and body treatments, skin analysis, pre-and post consultations and preparing a client for home skin care. The student will also have an understanding of anatomy, physiology of the skin and the body's systems as they pertain to esthetics. Also included in this program are the techniques and skills needed to perform temporary hair removal and make-up applications. Upon completion of this program the student will be able to sit for the Pennsylvania State Board Exam for Esthetician.

Tom Savini's Special Make-Up Effects Program
Associate in Specialized Business Degree Program
This sixteen-month program is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for a career in the special make-up effects and show design businesses. This program of study develops student competencies in four skill areas of special effects to equip the graduate for careers with theatre companies, cosmetic companies, department stores, television studios, film and photographers studios, special effects labs, architectural restoration firms, amusement parks, entertainment design and fabrication companies, costume companies, computer special effects firms, display design firms, museums, science centers, and prosthetic sculpting and mold making studios.

Four main skill areas covered in this program include Make-Up Application, Mold Making and Casting, Animation Fabrication, Exhibit and Display Design.