Our students are in demand

For fast-growing careers, cosmetology is where it's at. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistant will be among the fastest-growing occupations through 2016.
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DESCRIPTION
Most people make use of the services of a cosmetology technician at some point in their lives. Cosmetologists are trained in personal beauty techniques and maintain training in the most current trends in the beauty industry.

Hairdressers, also known as hairstylists, offer a wide variety of paid services to customers including hair shampooing and conditioning treatments, hair cutting, hair coloring, chemical treatment, hair extensions, and styling.

With additional training they perform services such as manicures, pedicures, artificial nails, and nail extensions; along with facials, skin care treatments, and makeup.

As in most fields, those choosing to work at small businesses will perform a wider variety of duties than those working at large businesses where employees tend to specialize.

Other lines of work can consist of platform artist, beauty product sales & merchandising, cosmetic distributor, make-up artist for film or television, salon owner, master instructor of cosmetology, cosmetology school owner. There are dozens of opportunities to the field of cosmetology.

RESPONSIBILIITES: SMALLER BUSINESS
Many Cosmetologists work in the small-business setting of a private salon, where they may be employees or may rent workspace.  They deliver beauty related services such as hair cutting, conditioning, and styling, hair color, facials, skin care treatments, manicures, pedicures, and artificial nails. It may also include light sweeping and laundry duties, or running a cash register.

RESPONSIBILITIES: LARGER BUSINESS
Cosmetologist may work in a large salon setting where they are allowed to specialize in performing one kind of beauty service, such as hair cutting, conditioning, and styling, or hair color. Some specialize in skin care treatments, or facials. Others specialize in manicures, pedicures, and artificial nails.
Many Cosmetologists who work for large businesses also work in non-salon settings such as makeup consultants, cosmetic merchandising professionals, and product distributors. There are careers in film and television such as makeup artists, and careers teaching cosmetology in educational settings.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Cosmetologists generally work in clean, well-lit, and comfortable surroundings. This position does call for the individuals to be on their feet for several hours a day. There may also be long hours during peak demand times such as holidays or special events like “prom-season”. Difficult services and longer hours generally yield higher monetary rewards to the cosmetologist.

EMPLOYMENT
Demand for licensed cosmetologists in the coming decade will continue to increase along with population. Beauty trends, as well as a higher percentage of new male customers will fuel additional growth alongside traditional growth in the field.
Cosmetology demands commitment, a willingness to stay current with beauty trends and very careful attention to detail. It also requires good attitude, personal hygiene, and the ability to discern a customer’s needs with conflicting input. These traits are rewarded by return business and long-lasting client relationships.

ADVANCEMENT
Cosmetologists are frequently asked to take on more responsibilities as businesses grow and branch out into new areas. Good work habits, like timeliness and reliability, translate to new opportunities and additional pay. Frequently these opportunities include advancement to a supervisory role in the salon or other workplace organization.