If you have a flair for style and enjoy helping people look their best, our Cosmetology program could be perfect for you. Our certificate program is made up of 34 semester hours and 1,200 clock hours. It is conducted in a salon environment and includes all required cosmetology classes and live-model performances required by the State Board of Cosmetic Arts. Upon passing the State Board licensing exam, you will be licensed as an apprentice and must complete 960 clock hours (equivalent to six months of working 40 hours per week) within a year in a professional salon, working under the direct supervision of a licensed cosmetologist.
This is a certificate program and requires fewer credits and less time to complete than a degree or diploma program. Certificate programs can be taken alone but are often taken along with other Personal Care Services programs.
The Cosmetology program also offers a diploma option.
Skills You’ll Learn
The Cosmetology program is focused on job-related skills in the following areas:
- Demonstrating the ability to design and restructure hair and perform skin and nail care within a safe, sanitized and multicultural environment
- Exhibiting skills to increase sales and customers within the salon
- Recalling cosmetology theory and clinical information to successfully complete the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts exam
Career Opportunities
There are many employment opportunities for Cosmetology graduates, including:
- Barber shops
- Beauty salons
- Day and resort spas
- Nail salons
- Nursing and other residential care homes
Almost half of all cosmetologists are self-employed.
Plan of Study
The recommended course sequence for this program and a complete list of related classes are available in the Academic Catalog. Click the button below to view a copy of this plan of study, which is also available as a PDF.