How To Find A Good Beauty School
Determining how to find a good beauty school is not difficult if you know what beauty-related or cosmetology services you want to provide for consumers. There are several jobs that fall under the general area of cosmetology, and the requirements for these positions are different.
Professions Found In Beauty Schools
Consider the following jobs before making the decision about committing to a cosmetology or beauty school:
Cosmetologist
A cosmetologist is commonly known as a hairdresser. Cosmetologists wash, cut, color and style hair, based on the consumer’s request. Those who go through cosmetology training learn several skills and depending on the length of the program may also be able to provide skin and nail care.
Esthetician
A person who holds this beauty-related job provides skin care ranging from exfoliation to facial massages. Some individuals interested in this profession enroll in programs that focus exclusively on this area.
Electrologist
The primary duty of an electrologist is to assist clients with hair removal. Usually this is accomplished through a process called electrolysis and is meant to be a permanent or a hair removal solution that lasts longer than waxing or similar methods.
Manicurist or Nail Technician
This beauty professional focuses on caring for the nails, performing both manicures and pedicures.
Once you decide which of these areas fits your career goals, the next step is to determine the type of beauty school that will meet your needs. Beauty schools offer degrees, diplomas or certificates. Certificate programs are the shortest in length, ranging from six months to a year. Diploma programs are generally about a year long; and earning an associate degree in cosmetology takes two-years.
Who Sponsors Beauty School Programs?
Programs may be sponsored by community colleges, secondary schools, and private companies. Community or junior college beauty schools are usually state supported programs that offer two-year degrees, diplomas or certificates, depending on the program choice.
In some high schools, students can graduate with beauty school credentials by taking cosmetology courses in vocational education programs. However, these courses are not for the general public. Courses taught in high schools are limited to high school students.
Private beauty schools unlike community colleges and high school programs exist exclusively to provide training in cosmetology and related areas. For the person who wants to get into a program quickly, this option might be the best.
Find a Good Beauty School by Visiting Various Programs
The best way to find a school is to make arrangements to visit and observe a program in action. Contact the school’s director and get permission to visit classes and observe students demonstrating their skills. This is also the time to ask questions about the length of the program, the cost, and the application process.
