The Complete Guide To Becoming a Cosmetologist

How does someone become a cosmetologist? Here are the requirements you need to know and instructions on how you can jump-start your career.

Cosmetology is a fantastic career option for people who have a passion for the beauty industry and want to express their creativity professionally. Since cosmetology traditionally includes makeup, hair care, and skin care, it is a comprehensive trade that can give someone a well-rounded skillset. Cosmetologists often end up owning a salon or spa, working behind the scenes for television or the fashion industry. Despite all this, the path to becoming a cosmetologist may seem confusing or unclear at first. This guide will help you navigate the process and lists the requirements needed to receive a cosmetology license.

Find an Accredited Cosmetology School

First off, in order to become a full-fledged beauty professional, it is expected of you to have completed a cosmetology training course. With a quick internet search, a potential new student can be flooded with choices. Which school is the right one to attend?

Most states have accredited cosmetology colleges that can get you the training you need, even with some financial assistance. Most importantly, it is always recommended to double-check that an institution you are interested in is accredited. Accreditation means that a beauty school or training program has proven a standard of quality in teaching and curriculum. This also ensures that the program meets the training and hour requirements for the eligibility to apply for a state license.

Although it might be common sense, you should always research the course framework and timeframes that work best for you.  In order to allow students to have more flexibility in their schedules, cosmetology schools usually offer part-time and full-time schedules, along with rolling course start dates throughout the year.

For example, PJ’s College of Cosmetology in Indiana and Kentucky offers a cosmetology course with 1,500 hours of training, classroom theory, and hands-on experience. This course gives you the required hours to apply for a state cosmetology license in Indiana and Kentucky while giving you quality instruction.

Make Sure You Meet Entry Requirements

Overall, cosmetology schools are inclusive institutions that are there to help you find success in the professional world—all ages and backgrounds are accepted and highly encouraged to apply (with some basic prerequisites).

As with most educational programs, you will need to meet a general age and education requirement. Schools usually require you to be at least 16 to 18 years of age, depending on the college. It’s also important to note that State Boards of Cosmetology do have an age requirement for licensure, even if a cosmetology program does not. For Indiana, the application for a license has an age requirement of 18 years.

Beyond age, programs generally require a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) fulfillment. Additionally, to formally enroll in cosmetology school, you will need to fill out some essential application forms and present official identification. At this stage, programs will also ask you to write a short essay, often describing your interest in the program.

Speak to an Enrollment Advisor

Once you have graduated high school and are certain you have met the required criteria, it is vital that you speak to an enrollment advisor directly at the school you are hoping to attend. Generally, enrollment advisors are necessary to contact, as they will make sure you are formally enrolled. As well, they are there to answer any of your questions and make the process as smooth and easy as possible.

At PJ’s College of Cosmetology, enrollment advisors are standing by to help you through the enrollment process. If you have any questions on how to complete an accredited cosmetology course, simply fill out an information request or call 800-62-SALON (72566). Once you have been connected with an advisor, he or she will stay in touch to guide you through the entire process and even assist you during your time at school.

Attend Classes, Develop Your Specialty, and Graduate

Once you’re in school, it is not enough to just be physically present. Although attendance and training hours are required to graduate, it is just as important that new students fully apply themselves. Your time in school is an exciting and fun time where you will discover your talents, find your specialty, and learn about all the advancements in hair, makeup, and skin care. This is the time to dive into your passions and become an expert in the beauty field that you love. Once you graduate, the career and job opportunities will be there, waiting to see all that you have accomplished.

Gain Your License

Licensure is an important step in becoming a fully recognized cosmetologist. This can vary between states but generally involves a state examination board (State Board of Cosmetology) that tests the applicants on both written and technical skills. There is a fee to take the exam. It is generally only available to those who completed a training program with an accredited institution and fulfilled the required hours. For Indiana, 1,500 hours are required, and Kentucky has similar requirements.

During your time at school, enrollment advisors and instructors will be there to help guide you and prepare you for this important step.

Join an Apprenticeship and Find Your Niche

Although cosmetology school will give you all the necessary skills you need to hit the job market, there will also be a time of reflection and opportunity searching after you complete your training course. For many aspiring cosmetologists, it is extremely helpful to enter an apprenticeship at an established salon. This step can help fill you in on some of the day-to-day procedures of owning a business in your specific area.

Whether you decide to do an apprenticeship or not, there will be people seeking your services. At this stage, you can decide what type of cosmetologist you want to be—if you want to work in a salon or spa, in the entertainment industry, or even if you want to go into cosmetology instruction.

Keep Building Your Client Base and Skill Set

Once you have found a job at a salon you like or have built the groundwork for your business, there is still a lot of growing to do. At this moment, you have given yourself the foundation for success. You have attended cosmetology school, graduated, discovered your specialty, and chosen the career path that works for you. No matter which niche you have decided to go into—you must maintain and build your client base and repertoire of skills.

Some helpful tips—prompt your customers to plan for their next visit after they have completed an appointment. It is also a good idea to ask for referrals or make a type of referral system. This can make all the difference in your business and can ensure that you are not only receiving fulfillment in your job but are financially successful too.

If you are interested in starting your career in cosmetology, PJ’s College of Cosmetology can help. Call us at 800-62-SALON (72566) or request information at gotopjs.com.