Cosmetology
Program Description, Mission, and Objectives
The Cosmetology Technology program is a full-time classroom theory with “hands-on” practice in the laboratory. The curriculum is designed to provide students the opportunity to acquire knowledge, attitudes and skills to obtain a certificate, verifying competency in Cosmetology. Graduates of the Cosmetology program are eligible to take the Alabama State Board of Examination for licensure as a Cosmetologist.
The fundamental mission of the cosmetology program is to provide excellence in career training. This dictates that the program shows a concern for a diverse population by respecting its clients' values, traditions, and aspirations. The Cosmetology program seeks to satisfy the employment and educational needs of the business and industry community.
Career Opportunities
Graduate of the Cosmetology Program may become employed as a Cosmetologist, Hairstylist, Color Technician, Manicurist, Make-up Artist, Cosmetology Instructor or Salon Owner.
Additional information is available from the Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Skills Needed
In order to be successful in the field of Cosmetology, a graduate should have finger dexterity, sense of form and artistry, enjoy dealing with the public, be able to follow a client’s instructions, have above average business skills and be an effective sales person who can attract new clients.
Expected Earnings/Salary
Earnings for Cosmetology Graduates as reported by the 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook are as follows:
Median annual earnings for salaried hair-dressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists, including tips and commission are $23,150. The highest 10 percent earn more than $42,452.
Among skin care specialists, median annual earnings, including tips, were $28,724 for manicurists and pedicurists $19,676 and for shampooers $17,305.
Types of Programs Offered
There are several certificate options for specialization in the Cosmetology Program. Click here for the course requirements.
Upon completion of a cosmetology program and the attainment of a license, students can enroll in Cosmetology Instructor Training Courses. Students enrolling in these courses must be proficiently skilled for entry-level employment in the field, successfully pass the Alabama Board of Cosmetology licensure examination and capably train students to become professionals in the field including abiding by all rules and regulations governing safe services for themselves and their clients.
Estimated Program Cost
Cosmetology (COS)/Cosmetology Instructor(CIT)
| Award Level |
Credit Hours |
Est. Tuition/Fees |
Est. Books/Supplies |
Est. Total Cost |
| Career Entry Certificate (CER) - Cosmetology |
59 |
$7,729.00 |
$1,500 |
$9,229.00 |
| Career Skills Certificate (STC) - Cosmetology Instructor Training |
29 |
$3,799.00 |
$600.00 |
$4,399.00 |
*Estimates based on Fall 2011 Tuition/Fees. Subject to change without notice.
Advisory Committee
Tyrone Bell
Financial Consultant, PriAmerica
Devon Brown
Promotional Coordinator, Bronner Bros.
Teresa Frost
Manager, Sally Beauty Supply
Jeff McCarley
Owner, Synergy Salon
Mike Sales
Owner, Mike & Bill's Presidential Barber Shop
Click here to contact the Cosmetology Program or call 256.551.3129 for more information.