What is Cosmetology School?

Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatments, including hair styling, skin care, makeup, nail care and much more. Cosmetic services are intended to beautify and improve one’s overall appearance. Cosmetology schools are institutions that prepare students to become licensed cosmetologists and perform a variety of beauty treatments. Cosmetology schools give talented, artistic individuals the opportunity to make their passion a career. While you are in cosmetology school, you will most likely concentrate on a particular area or specialty. If you want to become a nail technician, then you will take specific courses in nail care. General cosmetology courses cover a wide variety of beauty treatments and topics. One of the primary topics is hair styling, which encompasses everything from cutting, coloring and other chemical services like relaxers, perms and texturizers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most cosmetology schools require their applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. The majority of U.S. states require that cosmetologists complete a program in a state-licensed cosmetology school. Programs in hair styling, skin care and cosmetics can be taken in both high schools and in public or private postsecondary vocational schools. Full-time programs at cosmetology schools last about 9 months and may lead to an associate’s degree.

Cosmetology students will encounter some challenges, including the ability to adapt your new skills to different people. Each customer presents a different challenge to the cosmetologist because everyone has different hair types, face types and shapes and nail types. This challenge will keep the cosmetologist more aware of each customer’s needs and help them create the most flattering look possible.

While cosmetology programs do not take very long to complete and are less expensive than other degree programs, you may still need financial assistance to pay for your tuition. In this case, let the American Association of Cosmetology Schools help you find available grants and scholarships that you can put toward school. AACS has partnered with industry sponsors to offer these scholarships and grants to deserving cosmetology students, which do not have to be repaid. Here, you can read about available financial aid and fill out your application to help you jump-start your cosmetology education and career.