Attending Cosmetology School While Working a Day Job
Attending a cosmetology program and working at a day job is entirely feasible, and many cosmetology students work while attending beauty school.
At Evergreen Beauty College, we offer cosmetology students flexible schedules, allowing them to balance their personal, work, and school lives.
Cosmetology students balancing work and school
Balancing work and school can be a challenge some students face. Students who struggle to coordinate school, work, and personal lives find enrolling in a part-time cosmetology school instead of a full-time program crucial.
At Evergreen, our students are only required to be at school five days a week for four hours per day. Students can complete virtually all assignments online. Evergreen does require that you be on campus for hands-on training in our on-campus salon. At the campus salon, you’ll not only apply what you learn in your chosen field of cosmetology, but you’ll network and have access to potential clients.
Students juggling a part-time job while attending school for cosmetology will experience all aspects of the beauty industry that will help shape their full-time career in cosmetology. That’s why Evergreen is ideal for those wanting to strike a balance between continuing to work while completing their cosmetology training relatively quickly.
Finding a cosmetology training program that offers flexibility is essential for aspiring beauty professionals who strive to balance other commitments while pursuing their education. Whether you’re a full-time student or someone with a busy work schedule, many schools provide part-time cosmetology programs that allow you to advance your skills in hair care and other beauty services at a pace that suits your lifestyle.
Becoming a licensed cosmetologist
Before becoming a licensed cosmetologist, attending beauty school is a vital step where students gain hands-on experience working with real clients. Evergreen’s cosmetology education includes practical training in hair styling, hair coloring, facials, makeup application, and more.
Under the guidance of a cosmetology instructor, students will practice these skills for a set number of hours per week, meeting the state board’s requirements. After completing the required practical skills and classroom instruction, students must pass the state cosmetology exam to become licensed professionals recognized by the Board of Cosmetology.
Cosmetology licensing requirements vary in every state.
The Licensing exam
The Washington State cosmetology licensing exam covers both written and practical sections.
The written cosmetology exam
This portion of the exam focuses on general knowledge of safety, sanitation, anatomy, skincare, hair styling, hair braiding, hair coloring, and hair removal.
The practical cosmetology exam
This section requires candidates to demonstrate hands-on practical skills, including hair cutting, hair coloring, chemical treatments, makeup application, and proper sanitation practices. Candidates must complete several training hours and pass both parts of the exam to qualify for licensure through the Washington State Board of Cosmetology.
In an accredited beauty school, you will learn both components of this material in a classroom setting and through online courses. Evergreen offers other specialized courses, such as the nail technology program, the esthetics program (where you will cover skincare and makeup artistry), and the barbering program.
Becoming professional cosmetologists
Here’s what you can expect to learn at Evergreen Beauty College:
- A broad spectrum of industry-related skills and techniques
- Communicating and consulting effectively with clients and salon employees
- Salon operational tasks
- A newfound sense of confidence and purpose
Book one of Evergreen Beauty College’s tours today!
FAQ: Attending cosmetology school while working a day job
Can I attend a cosmetology program if I work a day job?
Yes. Choosing a school that offers flexible hours and allows you to accommodate your personal and work life is essential. Some programs may provide classes a few days a week, day and evening, for only a few hours per class. You can complete many of the written assignments online.
Typically, most of your training at school is completed by practicing on mannequins and in the on-campus salon.
Can you earn a decent salary as a cosmetologist?
Yes, you can earn a fairly decent salary as a beauty professional, but the wages will vary depending on your rates, experience level, the hours you dedicate, the location you work in, and how many clients you retain on a regular basis.
Building a loyal client base sometimes takes time, but the payoff can be financially rewarding.
Will going to a beauty school improve my quality of life?
If you have a passion for beauty, attending an accredited cosmetology school will elevate your quality of life and help you achieve a career you love and can feel proud of.
Beauty schools not only teach technical skills but also personal confidence. After graduating from a beauty school, you will potentially gain the following:
- More flexible schedules and the ability to set your own hours
- More career opportunities to work in a salon, spa, or remotely
- More creative gratification that’s important for your overall happiness
- More financial freedom through clients, commissions, and events