What Is The Difference Between A Diploma In Cosmetology And A Degree In Cosmetology
If you want to beautify the world one head of hair at a time, cosmetology is a growing profession to consider. With a projected 14 percent growth rate between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cosmetology-related jobs are expected to reach over 800,000 by 2020. Before you apply for a state license to practice, you’ll need to attend either a diploma or degree cosmetology program. Understanding the difference between the two can help you shape your career.
Things I Wish I Knew Before I Went To Beauty School
Pursuing a cosmetology education can be a great first step on the path to a fulfilling and exciting career in the beauty industry. However, attending beauty school involves a lot more than just learning to cut hair, do makeup, and paint nails. Beauty is an art that requires dedication, patience, and attention to detail. Careers in beauty are also highly social and require most stylists to work with a variety of clients throughout their workweek.
To prepare for your future in beauty school and beyond, we asked Hair Professionals Career College students what they wish theyd known before starting school. Heres what they had to say!
Student Loans That Will Pay For Your Beauty School Education
Cosmetology offers a wide range of career opportunities for the self motivated, hard working, student. The increased emphasis on health and beauty in modern culture has made cosmetology a growing industry, and more and more students are headed to school for the training they need to take their place among the ranks of qualified hairstylists, makeup artists, estheticians, barbers and beauticians. A vast number of beauty schools have opened their doors across the country, inviting eager students to enroll in programs that offer paths to career independence and financial security. Many community colleges and vocational schools are also offering cosmetology programs for ambitious students.
For years, beauty schools have been relegated to the lower rungs of the post-secondary education ladder. But thats merely the ingrained snobbery of four year university graduates who like to think of vocational training as something less than a proper education. As any graduate of a cosmetology program knows, the training is comprehensive, time consuming, and quite rigorous. It takes a great deal of study to become a licensed cosmetologist, and that education doesnt come cheap. Beauty schools and vocational colleges may offer a fast track into the national workforce, but the tuition can still be a barrier for many students.
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Can You Receive The American Opportunity Credit If You Go To A Trade School
Maybe. ;If you meet all of the other requirements for the American Opportunity Credit and your school is an eligible institution you can claim the credit.
To determine if your school is an eligible school you can check with your school. ;You can also look for them in this Department of Education link of accredited schools. ;;
Another easy way to tell is if your school accepts Federal Financial Aid it is usually an accredited school.
Explore Cosmetology Career Options
A career in cosmetology offers a wide range of employment possibilities. Licensed graduates of beauty school may begin their careers working in hair salons, beauty shops or spas.; Many beauty school graduates ultimately open their own salons, and set forth on an entrepreneurial path. Other talented beauty school graduates will find themselves working in the entertainment industry, working as makeup artists and beauty consultants in television and film. Cosmetology is a highly competitive, and highly rewarding, field. With the right education, and a dedication to hard work, cosmetology offers endless opportunities.
Background Information
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What Kind Of Education Is Required To Be A Cosmetologist
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In two years or less, you could be standing in a trendy salon helping clients look fantastic. But you will need more than your natural talent to work as a cosmetologist. First, you must complete a state-approved cosmetology training program and then pass the state licensing exam. Afterward, you will have the knowledge and skill to offer an array of products and services.
How Many College Credits Is A Cosmetology Program Worth
Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.Cosmetology is not a college level program of study, thus there are no college credits attached. You will find most cosmetology program offerings at vocational institutions.
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What Degrees Can I Get At Different Colleges
Community colleges offer associate degrees that usually take two years. They also have certificate programs that may take anywhere from a few months to a year or more to finish. You can choose to earn an Associate of Arts degree, which will involve more liberal arts courses; an Associate of Science , which will include more math and science courses; or an Associate of Applied Science , which, like a cosmetology degree, will emphasize practical skills to prepare you for the workforce. All of these will involve general education courses, which may not be directly related to your major.
Traditional colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degree programs that typically take four years of full-time study to complete. Like associate degrees, you can earn an arts- or science-focused version, both of which will involve a good deal of general education classes in addition to your major-specific coursework. If you hope to earn an advanced degree, you will generally need a bachelor’s to begin work on your master’s or doctorate. These programs typically take two and four or more years to complete, respectively. Master’s and doctoral programs focus almost exclusively on topics related to your chosen field and allow you to achieve mastery in the area.
What Are The Costs Of Different Degrees
The cost of going to school is an important consideration. There can be differences in the prices of different degrees and even for the same degree at various institutions.
If you think you can’t afford to go to school, don’t give up hope. You may be able to find a scholarship, but even if you can’t, financial help is available. Student loans can help with more than tuition and fees. Most of the time, they can also be used to help with living expenses. Of course, you have to repay them , but considering the earning power gained and the value of being able to do what you really want to do, many people consider it a trade worth making.
The chart below provides an estimate of average costs and debt incurred. Cosmetology refers to a full cosmetology program. Specialty programsânail technician, makeup artist, colorist, etc.âmay cost less.
| $28,650 |
You may be able to save money if you take an online program. Though it is not possible to earn a cosmetology degree entirely online, there are many options for online associate and bachelorâs degree programs.
If going to school full time isn’t a decision you’re able or ready to make, you don’t have to give up the idea altogether. Many people continue their education on a part-time basis. This is true for students who attend a university, beauty school, or community college.
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The Final Step: How To Get Licensed And Launch Your Career
All states require you to be licensed; individual state boards issue those licenses. Each states licensing requirements for training processes and hours varies.
Some states, but not all, allow you to participate in an apprenticeship program in lieu of some training hours. Keep in mind that most of the states that allow this tradeoff call for more apprenticeship hours than traditional training hours.
Finally, youll have to pass an examination, which could consist of written or academic tests, hands-on performance tests, or some combination of the two.
Some states will require a minimum number of hours spent in continuing education to maintain your license. And for those who want to become a master cosmetologist, youll need at least a year of experience, some number of additional education credits , and another licensure exam.
For more information, visit our licensing page.
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How Much Does Trade School Cost
Trade school costs much less than 4-year colleges. In fact, the average cost to complete a trade school program is $33,000, according to Value Colleges, which is less than the $35,830 current cost of one year of tuition and fees at a private nonprofit 4-year college reported by the College Board. Trade school students who live at home with parents can also reduce or eliminate room and board costs.
Most trade school programs can be completed in two years or less, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner than those pursuing a 4-year college degree. However, in some industries a bachelors degree is required to move up into higher level positions.;
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If Youre Truly Passionate About This Work Youll Never Want To Do Anything Else
Even with the long hours, and the sometimes hectic scheduling its clear to see that passion is often the driving force for many beauty professionals. The sense of satisfaction that stylists get from seeing the joy that they have helped create is one of the most cited reasons for choosing this career.
If you do what youll love youll never work a day in your life- weve all heard the old adage. Becoming a beauty professional is hard work, but when youre passionate about what you do its the kind of work that you will choose to do over and over again.
Courses In A Cosmetology Program
Associate in cosmetology programs usually require about 60 credits, or 20 courses. Some cosmetology programs allow learners to tailor the curriculum to their career goals. For example, cosmetology students may select from emphasis options in hair styling, nail grooming, and makeup application.
Before choosing an associate in cosmetology program, prospective students should make sure the program’s content matches their career goals. Reading through the program’s course descriptions can help learners determine whether the curriculum meets their academic needs. Students in cosmetology associate programs commonly take the courses below. However, course availability and content vary by program.
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Cosmetology School Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment requirements vary by school, program, and state. The primary requirements focus on age and education. Youll have to be at least 16 years old, 18 in some places. Some states require a high school diploma or a GED, but others do not. In some cases, however, you might have to take supplementary courses or exams if youre not a high school graduate.
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Its Not As Easy As It Looks On Instagram
Beauty school is hard work. Instructors, graduates and long-time stylists agree that one of the greatest challenges to overcome is the intensity of the program. These programs are designed to prepare students for the industry in approximately one year. Students learn the basics of the industry in a class, then get trained and tested hands-on. By the end of beauty school, you can become truly prepared and qualified to take on clients. You know what they say, nothing worth having comes easy. Youll appreciate your education more, and have more pride in something that you worked hard for.
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Additional Cosmetology Certifications And Training
In addition to getting your license to work as a cosmetologist, you might also choose to pursue certification. Certification is different than licensing in that it is voluntaryyou dont need it to legally work as a cosmetologist. But it can help you shine for potential employers by showing your dedication and expertise.
One reason to pursue certification is to learn more about a particular area of cosmetology . Cosmetologists often pursue certification after working in the field and finding an area they are particularly interested in.
Another reason to get certified is because a potential employer requires it. For example, a salon or spa might allow cosmetologists to perform microdermabrasion or hair-extension services only if theyre certified in those specialties.
Becoming A Successful Cosmetologist
The cosmetologist/client relationship is often personal. From haircuts before job interviews to wedding day manicures and makeup, people put their trust in a cosmetologists expertise and professionalismand may even reveal intimate details of their lives. Cosmetologists who excel at making clients feel good about their appearance are often rewarded with fierce loyalty.
Every day is a new experience for me I wouldnt trade my career for the world.
This level of trust and understanding of the importance of self-worth, combined with the physical contact between cosmetologists and clients, may explain why many;nurses find their second careers in cosmetologyand vice versa. If you’re squeamish about the nitty-gritty of the human body, this probably isn’t the line of work for you. But if you like human contact, have a passion for beauty and fashion trends, enjoy making people’s lives better, and don’t mind long hours on your feet, then cosmetology can be a rewarding career for you.
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Federal Direct Student Loans
Federal college loans are generally thought of in terms of four year universities. But with the renewed emphasis on career training, and on reducing the unemployment rate, Federal student loans are increasingly being made available to students enrolled in vocational programs designed to fast track them into stable employment. Consequently, the Federal Direct Student Loan program has been expanded to include students who are enrolled in an accredited community college, trade, career or technical school. This is one of the instances where attending an accredited cosmetology school, or enrolling in an accredited community college or vocational school, really makes all the difference.
Cosmetology students will find the that following Federal Direct Loans may offer the financial assistance they need to pursue their career ambitions. Students considering Federal loans should understand that to be eligible they must be enrolled in an accredited school, and must be working toward an approved degree or certificate of completion. As with all Federal student loans, borrowing limits are determined by the applicants school of attendance and may not exceed the total cost of tuition.
What Is An Eligible Educational Institution
An eligible educational institution is a school offering higher education beyond high school. It is any college, university,;trade school, or other post secondary educational institution eligible to participate in a student aid program run by the U.S. Department of Education.
This includes most accredited public, nonprofit and privately-ownedfor-profit postsecondary institutions.If you arent sure if your school is an eligible educational institution:
- Check to see if the student received a Form 1098-T, Tuition Statement. Eligible educational institutions are required to issue students Form 1098-T, Tuition Statement .
- Ask your school if it is an eligible educational institution, or
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Your Ultimate Guide To Free Scholarships + Grantsfor Cosmetology School
Many people wonder how to go to cosmetology school for free. Alas, that would be nice. However, thats not going to happen for everyone. But.You can dramatically reduce your beauty school tuition by applying for free grants for cosmetology school cost. Check out the list below!
- Education Rocks Scholarship
- Massage Magazine Scholarship Program
To reiterate, there are many scholarships and grants available! Beauty school cost doesnt have to become between you and your dreams. And taking out cosmetology school loans isnt the end of the world. It will definitely be worth it when you find that next job opportunity and; a career that allows you to live the life you love!
Associate Degrees In Cosmetology
Aspiring Cosmetologists can earn their associate;degree in two years through both traditional study and practical training in student salons and clinics. Students will learn how to style and cut hair, give skin treatments, and how to give manicures and pedicures. In addition to these basic skills students will also learn about different skin disorders and how to treat them, sanitation, and business. Many cosmetologists go on to be self-employed so the business knowledge they;gain in school is very helpful in their future careers. Common courses included at the associate level are hair cutting and styling, nail and skin care, state regulations, salon management, health and safety, and hair coloring. Some programs will also have externships readily available for graduates who wish to seek a little more hands on training before entering the industry as a professional on their own. Most programs will require that applicants hold a high school diploma or GED;;however, there are programs that will accept applicants who are still in high school. Upon graduation cosmetologists will be able to put their skills to work at a variety of different settings including nail salons, hair salons, and spas. As cosmetologists advance their careers they may also find work in places such as the fashion industry or film industry. Depending on the cosmetology school being attended the total cost of tuition can range from $6,000 to $30,000.;