About Cosmetology School
Becoming a cosmetologist is a process of learning and hands-on experimentation. Combined with professionalism and an innate sense of style, cosmetology school can take you far. If you feel like you have what it takes to climb to the top of this high-powered profession, or you just want to be a part of a growing, thriving industry, take a look at what beauty school is all about.
In America most general cosmetology schools offer classes focused on hairstyling; however, as a cosmetology student you can also be trained in manicures, pedicures, facials and make-up arts. There are also practice, safety and procedural courses that must be completed before you can be licensed. Usually to become a licensed cosmetologist you must go to school for about a year, take a written test, and then pass a hands-on examination. These are just the general requirements; many times a cosmetologist will take specialty classes in addition, or you can just decide to take shorter courses and get licensed in the discipline that you choose without getting a general certification.
Nail Technology School
Nail technicians can be licensed separately from general cosmetologists; this is usually a six to nine month program that consists of technique and safety courses. A vocational college will also teach you about sales, business management and customer service. You will probably also receive career guidance and some job search training.
Esthetician School
It is not uncommon for estheticians to go to get a degree in esthetics and work in a dermatologist’s office. Since the esthetician career is so diverse the amount of schooling you can opt to take on will directly affect what kind of career you will have. Estheticians learn all about skin health and beauty, and can sometimes help with excema, rosacea and acne problems. They must also learn safety regulations and, in some cases, medical terminology related to dermatology.
Hair Stylist School
Hair stylists are the most common estheticians, and general cosmetology courses usually consist mostly of hair styling techniques and safety. You will be able to focus on hair in your schooling and receive a certificate as a hairstylist if you so choose, but it is very common to combine the different disciplines of cosmetology with hairstyling to have a well-rounded practice. This will cost you around $3,000 in most cases, and you can find these classes at your local community college or university.
Cost of Cosmetology School
It may cost as low as several thousand dollars to go to beauty school or a certificate program for a particular sub-discipline certificate. If you are trying to become a cosmetologist you can pay anywhere from $3,000 to $18,000. The cost of school is determined by several factors. First, the type of school you decide to go to; private or public, nationally or regionally accredited. Usually private, nationally accredited vocational schools are more expensive;however, financial aid is available and advisors tend to make the entire process easy to understand. When you get federal grants for college you don’t have to pay them back, and when you take out student loans you have at least ten years to pay them back. So don’t let the cost of school hold you back from reaching your aspirations.