Cosmetology Degree Guide: 2025 Costs, Requirements & Job Opportunities

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Though STEM, Humanities, and Fine Arts are popular in academic pursuits, you can still explore various other areas. For individuals who are interested in making a career out of caring for other people’s skin, hair, and nails, learning cosmetology will be of great help. “But what degree do you need to be a cosmetologist?" A degree in AAS cosmetology will teach you anything related to cosmetology, as well as skills that may be relevant for different careers. Having credentials in this field will help you assure your clients that you have the necessary expertise to safely apply therapeutic and cosmetic treatments to them.

Like many popular online degrees today, these cosmetology degrees typically combine coursework and practical skills development. The course of study ensures that aspiring cosmetologists have the skills needed to pursue successful careers in the beauty industry.

This guide aims to provide extensive information on getting a cosmetology school degree, including details on costs, cosmetologist education requirements, and job outlook.

Cosmetology Degree Guide Table of Contents

What is a Cosmetology degree?
Cost of Cosmetology Degree
Cosmetology Degree Jobs
Types of Degrees in Cosmetology for 2025
Cosmetology Degree Requirements
What to Look for in a Cosmetology Degree
Majors Related to Cosmetology Degree
Cosmetology Degree vs. Certification
Are Online Cosmetology Programs a Viable Option?
Advanced Certifications in Cosmetology for Career Growth
Expanding Horizons: Unconventional Career Opportunities with a Cosmetology Degree
How Can an Online Bachelor's Degree Complement My AAS in Cosmetology?
How Does the ROI of an AAS in Cosmetology Compare with Other Allied Health Programs?
Can Additional Academic Credentials Boost My Cosmetology Career?
What Emerging Trends Are Shaping the Cosmetology Industry?
How Can Accelerated Online Bachelor's Degrees Complement My Cosmetology Education?
Can I Fast-Track My Education Beyond an AAS in Cosmetology?

What is a Cosmetology degree?

What degree is cosmetology considered? The AAS in cosmetology is an associate degree. An associate degree in applied science (AAS) in cosmetology is a program focused on teaching students the proper care of hair, skin, and nails. Is a cosmetology license considered an associate’s degree? No, but in most cases, a degree from an accredited school is required for individuals who want to earn a cosmetology license.

In studying cosmetology, individuals learn to apply a wide variety of basic and advanced cosmetic procedures, including hair care and coloring, aesthetics, nail care, and massage therapy. Due to the nature of cosmetology, the course of study also includes hours of hands-on practice. Hands-on experience ensures that students have the necessary expertise to properly apply beauty procedures.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, students of AAS cosmetology programs may also take business lessons or choose something relating to business as a cosmetology major. These lessons cover topics, such as entrepreneurship, personnel management, and retail sales (Study.com, 2021). With these business skills, students are ready to become salon managers once they gain their cosmetology license.

The program typically takes less than a year to complete, though more comprehensive beauty programs may require students to study and train for as long as two years (Beauty School Programs, 2018).

What can you do with a degree in cosmetology?

AAS cosmetology programs prepare students for a wide variety of jobs in the beauty industry. With the AAS cosmetology skills they learn, students have numerous options in terms of job prospects, including those of hairstylists, barbers, or nail technicians.

Licensed cosmetologists can also focus on skincare (esthetician), cosmetics or makeup (makeup artists), and electrology (hair removal procedures (MTI College, 2020). As with other fields, AAS cosmetology graduates can also pursue a career in teaching technical education.

Cost of Cosmetology Degree

What level of education is cosmetology considered? Since an AAS degree in cosmetology is an associate, it tends to be more affordable than other types of degrees, such as bachelor’s or master’s degrees. However, costs typically vary depending on a number of factors, including location, specializations, and the school itself.

How much does it cost to get an AAS cosmetology?

According to the Imagine America Foundation, attending an accredited cosmetology school can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 (Imagine America, 2018). This is significantly lower than the average costs of tuition and fees at public and private universities ($36,000 and $22,000, respectively).

AAS cosmetology tuition costs also tend to vary depending on the school’s reputation and location. In 2019, for instance, the Aveda Institute of New York charged $20,295 for an AAS certificate in cosmetology (Maxwell, 2019). In contrast, pursuing the cosmetology program at Pasadena City College, California, would set back students approximately $4,000 (Pasadena City College, n.d.)

Textbooks and supplies such as hair styling products and mannequins also increase the costs of studying cosmetology. Furthermore, cosmetology specializations, such as hairstylist training and nail technician training can also bump up AAS cosmetology costs (CPT Guru, 2019).

Is a cosmetology degree worth it?

An AAS degree in cosmetology is a worthwhile pursuit for individuals interested in working in the beauty industry as professionals. The theoretical coursework and practical hands-on training provided by these programs ensure that students have all the skills needed to succeed in the beauty industry.

The business and management lessons tackled during cosmetology programs also prepare students for entrepreneurship. With an AAS cosmetology degree, students are ready to manage their own salons.

However, people interested in pursuing these jobs should be aware of the potential negative effects of such careers. Factors such as job stress and the emotional labor involved in working in the beauty industry have been extensively studied by researchers in recent years. Emotional labor involves managing or controlling emotional expressions around others to effectively fulfill a professional work role (The Pennsylvania State University, n.d.).

For instance, Sang-sook and Cheol-ho discussed these factors in their 2018 article, “The effect of emotional labor of beauticians on job stress, job satisfaction, and turnover intention," published in the Asian Journal of Beauty and Cosmetology. According to their findings, “Job stress and turnover intention increased as the surface behaviors of emotional labor increased…. The increase in job stress of cosmetologists lowered job satisfaction and increased turnover intention, and when job satisfaction was high, turnover intention decreased." (Seo, S., & Park, C. ,2018)

Cosmetology Degree Jobs

Going by the AAS cosmetology definition, individuals with these credentials are qualified to work as beauty professionals. However, with cosmetology being a broad field of study, many cosmetology students opt to specialize in fields such as nail care, hair styling, and massage therapy.

Is cosmetology in high demand?

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is expected to decrease by 1% from 2019 to 2029. Despite this negative job outlook, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job opportunities to be “good" on the whole.

Job prospects are significantly better if you choose to specialize as you pursue your AAS degree in cosmetology. For manicurists and pedicurists, for instance, employment is expected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021a). Similarly, the BLS expects a job growth of 17% for skincare specialists from 2019 to 2029.

What jobs can you get with an AAS cosmetology?

Cosmetologists They apply a variety of cosmetic treatments to clients’ faces and hair. In many cases, cosmetologists also help clients discover the best cosmetic products based on clients’ skin type and tone.
Hairstylists and barbers These professionals examine clients’ hair and use procedures such as cutting, dyeing, and styling to achieve the look clients want. They may also offer additional services such as facials, shaving, and hair treatments.
Skincare specialists They evaluate clients’ skin to determine appropriate treatments to improve the skin’s health and appearance. They also advise clients on proper skin care procedures.
Manicurists, pedicurists, and nail technicians Manicurists and pedicurists ensure that clients’ nails are clean and aesthetically pleasing. This typically involves cleaning and filing the nails and removing rough skin.
Cosmetology instructors Individuals with an AAS degree in cosmetology can work as instructors in the field. They create lesson plans and demonstrate proper cosmetic procedures to ensure that students have the right knowledge and skills to be cosmetologists.

Aside from these common AAS cosmetology jobs, researchers posit that cosmetologists may play a bigger role in proper health education and the promotion of proper health habits. Michalak discusses this in her 2021 article “The role of a cosmetologist in the area of health promotion and health education: A systematic review," published in Health Promotion Perspectives.

According to Michalak, who works in the Institute of Medical Sciences in Jan Kochanowski University (Poland), “It was found that cosmetologists have the potential to promote pro-health activities. The results of this review also suggest that beauty salons are suitable places for increasing pro-health awareness and can be successfully used to conduct educational programs about healthy lifestyle, as well as skin, breast and cervical cancer prevention."

What kind of salary can I earn with an AAS cosmetology?

The salary you can earn with an AAS cosmetology depends on the specific jobs you get once you gain your license. According to the BLS, median hourly wages for cosmetologist degree graduates in May 2021 were at $14.26 per hour (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022b).

With an AAS cosmetology, you can earn a median annual salary of $31,967 while working as a cosmetologist. However, the average annual cosmetologist salary varies from state to state. A cosmetologist in Washington, D.C., for instance, may earn an estimate of $45,600 annually (Maxwell, 2019).

Types of Degrees in Cosmetology for 2025

Unlike other fields of study, most schools today offer AAS cosmetology programs instead of bachelor’s or master’s degrees. These programs are commonly offered by beauty schools and vocational schools.

AAS Degree in Cosmetology

Average time to complete: 2 to 2.5 years (coursework plus, required hours for licensure)

Considered the terminal degree in its field, an AAS degree in cosmetology qualifies individuals to professionally care for clients’ scalp, hair, and nails. The program usually lasts around two years and combines theoretical coursework with hands-on training and laboratory sessions.

In the pursuit of this program, students learn a wide variety of cosmetic techniques, including hair cutting and styling, facials, and nail care. Aside from basic and advanced beauty and personal hygiene procedures, coursework also covers proper sanitation procedures to fully prepare students for working in salons and spas.

Aside from cosmetology techniques, an AAS cosmetology program also covers business principles, including small business finance and interpersonal communication (Study.com, 2021). Classes on these topics prepare students for managerial positions and entrepreneurship.

In addition to coursework, most programs in cosmetology also include a set amount of training hours. The required program training hours range from 1,000 to 2,100 hours, depending on state regulations.

Cosmetology Degree Requirements

The application process to cosmetology programs may vary depending on the school and state. For instance, requirements may differ if you are enrolling in trade school vs college. However, beauty schools tend to have minimum requirements for applicants.

Admission Requirements

Proof of Graduation

The majority of states require applicants to have a high school diploma in cosmetology or beauty schools. GED transcripts or other high school completion certificates are also typically acceptable. An associate’s degree in cosmetology may require students to have at least a cosmetology certificate.

Transcripts or SAT/ACT score

There is often no GPA requirement for high school students who want to apply for an AAS degree in cosmetology. The same is true for SAT or ACT scores, as most beauty schools do not have this requirement for applicants.

A high GPA or SAT/ACT score, however, may be beneficial for applying to more comprehensive cosmetology certificate programs. Some schools, for instance, require students to show proof of competence in writing and reading (Evergreen Beauty College, n.d.).

Other Requirements

One of the most common AAS cosmetology prerequisites is age. In some states, applicants must be at least 16 years of age to qualify for these programs. Meanwhile, other states require program applicants to be at least 18 years of age.

Skill Requirements

Due to the nature of an AAS cosmetology program, students would do well to have a solid foundation in basic problem-solving. Basic knowledge in finance and management will also make it easier for cosmetology students to grasp business concepts during their course of study, especially since some majors in cosmetology focus on these skills.

What to Look for in a Cosmetology Degree

One good thing about pursuing an AAS degree in cosmetology is that you have plenty of schools to choose from. The information below can help you pick the best beauty school or institution for cosmetology programs.

Available Specializations

If you’re interested in more specific studies, you can choose from a wide variety of cosmetology specializations. These specialty programs can help you achieve different AAS cosmetology types. These include:

Esthetics
Hair design
Makeup artistry
Laser treatments
Massage therapy
Salon management
Events styling
Wig care

Accreditation

When you’re looking for a school, ask “what cosmetology schools near me are accredited?" Accreditation is particularly important to schools offering cosmetology programs. Students must enroll in a board-approved cosmetology program in order to obtain a cosmetology license (Cosmetology-License.com, n.d.). Beauty schools can have either a national or regional accreditation.

The largest accrediting agency for cosmetology institutions and schools is the National Accrediting Commission for Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Currently, over a thousand cosmetology and beauty schools are accredited by NACCAS.

Student-Teacher Ratio

In addition to available specializations and accreditation, it’s also best to consider the student-to-teacher ratio offered by a cosmetology school. By choosing a school with a student-to-teacher ratio that matches your learning style, you get a better chance of succeeding at an AAS cosmetology program.

Financial Aid Options

Individuals planning to pursue an AAS cosmetology program can benefit from a wide variety of financial aid options. For instance, the U.S. federal government offers financial aid to all college-bound students through the Pell Grant. As of July 2021, students awarded with the grant can get as much as $6,495 each.

Many cosmetology schools and professional organizations also offer various in-house grants and scholarship programs to cosmetology students in need. For instance, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools has partnered with various sponsors to provide financial aid to qualified individuals. One of these scholarship programs is the Great Clips Great Scholarship Program, which provides tuition assistance to cosmetology students (American Association of Cosmetology Schools, n.d.). In case you are not sure where to start in applying for financial aid, be sure to check out this guide on how to write a cover letter for scholarship.

Majors Related to Cosmetology Degree

Finance
Hospitality and Tourism
Marketing
Entrepreneurial Studies

Cosmetology Degree vs. Certification

If you are looking for comprehensive training with the flexibility to work in various areas of the beauty industry, an AAS degree in Cosmetology might be the right choice. However, if you are passionate about a specific skill set, such as makeup artistry or esthetics, and want to enter the workforce more quickly, a certification could be a better fit.

For those who seek a quicker, more affordable path, but still want a solid foundation, you might also want to explore the easiest associate degree to get. This option could offer a streamlined degree process that still provides valuable career opportunities in the broader healthcare and wellness industry.

Choosing between a degree and certification ultimately depends on your career ambitions, time constraints, and financial considerations. Both routes offer valuable paths to success in the beauty industry, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully.

Are Online Cosmetology Programs a Viable Option?

Online cosmetology programs offer flexible scheduling and innovative virtual learning tools that integrate with essential hands-on training. Accredited institutions increasingly provide hybrid models, ensuring that theoretical coursework is complemented by in-person practical sessions. Prospective students should verify that online programs meet state licensure standards and provide opportunities for live demonstrations and supervised practice. Exploring options like the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA can help identify affordable pathways that maintain rigorous educational quality.

Advanced Certifications in Cosmetology for Career Growth

While an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cosmetology offers foundational knowledge, many professionals in the beauty industry seek to enhance their expertise and career prospects through additional certifications. These certifications are a powerful way to increase job opportunities, specialize in a specific area, or simply stay competitive in a rapidly evolving field.

Types of Certifications to Consider

Advanced Esthetics Certification: If you want to specialize in skin care and treatment, an advanced esthetics certification is an excellent choice. This certification allows you to work with more complex skin treatments, such as microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and advanced facial therapies. Many beauty professionals find that specializing in skincare leads to more lucrative career opportunities.
Makeup Artistry Certification: For those passionate about makeup, obtaining a makeup artistry certification can open doors to roles in fashion, entertainment, and bridal services. With this certification, you can learn techniques for special effects makeup, airbrush application, and makeup for photography, giving you a competitive edge in various beauty fields.
Nail Technician Certification: If you are interested in focusing on nails, pursuing a nail technician certification can help you develop expertise in manicures, pedicures, and nail art. Nail techs are in high demand, and additional certifications can give you the edge in a busy job market, especially in salons offering specialty nail services.
Salon Management Certification: For those looking to move into management roles, a salon management certification can provide you with the business skills required to run a successful salon or beauty business. This certification covers essential topics like inventory management, scheduling, marketing, and leadership, helping you take your career beyond the chair.
Hair Extensions Specialist Certification: As demand for hair extensions continues to rise, certification in this area can make you a sought-after professional in hair salons. A hair extensions specialist certification teaches techniques for applying and maintaining extensions, allowing you to offer a high-end service and tap into a niche market.

Benefits of Pursuing Certifications

Increased Earning Potential: Certified professionals often earn higher wages than those without specialized training. Whether you're focusing on skincare, makeup, nails, or management, certifications can significantly increase your earning potential.
Improved Job Security: In an industry where trends and technologies are constantly evolving, certifications show your commitment to staying current. Clients are more likely to trust and return to a certified professional who has invested in advanced training.
Expanded Career Opportunities: Specialized certifications not only make you more competitive in the job market but also allow you to diversify your services. With additional qualifications, you can explore opportunities in salons, spas, freelance work, teaching, or even owning your own business.
Professional Recognition: Earning a certification from a recognized institution can lend credibility to your name in the beauty community. Many certifications are offered by professional organizations that are respected in the industry, enhancing your reputation among clients and employers.

How to Get Certified

Choose the Right Certification Program: Research accredited programs that offer certifications in your area of interest. Make sure the program is recognized by industry standards and provides sufficient hands-on training to develop your skills.
Consider Online Certifications: These days, online certifications are becoming increasingly popular for busy professionals. You can earn certifications in areas like makeup artistry or salon management at your own pace, making it easier to balance work and education.
Understand Licensing Requirements: Keep in mind that while certification is valuable, it may not replace state licensing requirements for certain cosmetology jobs. Be sure to research your state's licensing board to ensure you meet all necessary criteria in addition to completing certification programs.

Expanding Horizons: Unconventional Career Opportunities with a Cosmetology Degree

A degree in cosmetology equips individuals with a versatile skill set that goes beyond traditional roles like hairstylist or esthetician. In today’s dynamic beauty and wellness industry, there are unique career opportunities for cosmetologists who want to think outside the box or specialize in niche markets.

Beauty Product Development. Cosmetology graduates can apply their knowledge of skin, hair, and nail care to develop innovative beauty products. From organic skincare lines to high-tech hair solutions, this field offers opportunities to collaborate with chemists and industry experts. With an entrepreneurial spirit, you might even launch your own product line. If you're exploring degrees that align with your business ambitions, you can discover more about what degree should I get for entrepreneurial success.
Medical Aesthetics. By combining cosmetology with further certifications or training in medical aesthetics, professionals can work in clinics offering advanced treatments like laser therapy, chemical peels, or Botox. This specialization is perfect for those who want to bridge beauty with healthcare.
Editorial and Fashion Industry Roles. Cosmetologists can venture into the world of editorial work, styling for fashion shoots, runway shows, or magazine covers. These roles often require creativity and adaptability, offering opportunities to work with top designers and photographers.
Beauty Influencer or Educator. The rise of social media has created a booming market for beauty influencers and content creators. Sharing tutorials, product reviews, or hairstyling techniques on platforms like YouTube or Instagram can establish you as a trusted expert while generating income. Alternatively, teaching at beauty schools or hosting workshops can fulfill an educational calling.
Spa and Wellness Management. With an AAS in Cosmetology, graduates can leverage their business skills to manage or operate luxury spas and wellness centers. This career path combines customer service expertise with leadership roles, ensuring smooth operations while delivering exceptional client experiences.
Sustainable Beauty Consultant. As sustainability becomes a priority, there’s a growing need for beauty professionals who can guide brands or salons in adopting eco-friendly practices. From sourcing sustainable products to reducing waste, this role aligns beauty with environmental responsibility.
Specialized Services. Niche services like wig styling for theater productions, scalp treatments, or working with cancer survivors on hair restoration are in demand. These roles allow professionals to make a meaningful impact while honing unique skills.

How Can an Online Bachelor's Degree Complement My AAS in Cosmetology?

An online bachelor's degree can extend the practical expertise gained in an AAS program by providing advanced training in business management, digital marketing, and strategic leadership. This academic advancement offers a broader perspective on industry trends and equips graduates with skills necessary for senior roles and entrepreneurial ventures. Integrating a bachelor's credential with technical training can enhance career flexibility and open pathways to managerial positions, which are often inaccessible with a vocational degree alone. Prospective students can explore options such as cheap online bachelor programs to identify affordable, flexible pathways that complement their AAS background without sacrificing financial prudence.

Is an AAS degree in cosmetology the right choice for you?

If you’re planning to make the most of your love for beauty treatments and procedures, then an AAS degree in cosmetology may be the ideal program for you. Aside from teaching skills in proper care for the skin, hair, and nails, a cosmetology program also provides coursework on entrepreneurship, sales, and management.

An AAS in cosmetology also opens up various career paths. While you can remain a general cosmetologist, you can also specialize in areas, such as skincare, massage therapy, and hairstyling.

With an AAS cosmetology, you also won’t have to worry if you don’t have the deep pockets required for a college education. These programs tend to be more affordable than typical college degrees, and you can apply for various student scholarships and grants as well.

Key Insights

Comprehensive Training: An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cosmetology provides extensive training in hair, skin, and nail care, combining theoretical coursework with hands-on practice to ensure students are well-prepared for careers in the beauty industry.
Business Skills: Many AAS programs include business-related courses, equipping students with the knowledge needed for salon management and entrepreneurship.
Affordability: Compared to bachelor's or master's degrees, AAS programs in cosmetology are relatively affordable, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
Specializations: Students can specialize in various areas such as esthetics, hair design, makeup artistry, and more, enhancing their expertise and job prospects.
Job Opportunities: Graduates can pursue various careers, including hairstylists, barbers, skincare specialists, and cosmetology instructors. Specialized roles such as manicurists and skincare specialists have higher projected job growth.
Licensing Requirements: Most states require cosmetologists to graduate from an accredited program and obtain a license, which involves meeting specific training hour requirements and passing exams.
Financial Aid: Various financial aid options, including Pell Grants and scholarships from professional organizations, are available to cosmetology students.

How Does the ROI of an AAS in Cosmetology Compare with Other Allied Health Programs?

Evaluating the return on investment for an AAS in Cosmetology involves considering tuition affordability, program duration, and long-term earning potential. Compared to many allied health disciplines that often require prolonged education and higher financial commitment, cosmetology programs offer a swift transition into a professional career with lower upfront costs. Additionally, the entrepreneurial opportunities in the beauty industry provide a unique pathway to business ownership and flexible income generation. For context, some allied health fields like those offered through athletic trainer programs can involve more extensive clinical hours and rigorous academic requirements. Candidates are advised to assess these factors based on individual career goals and regional market conditions.

Can Additional Academic Credentials Boost My Cosmetology Career?

For professionals looking to broaden their expertise beyond the technical and entrepreneurial skills offered by AAS cosmetology programs, advanced academic credentials may provide a competitive edge. Integrating higher-level education with industry-specific certifications can enhance strategic decision-making and leadership capabilities. Some professionals explore accelerated pathways—for example, opportunities found in quick PhD programs—to complement their practical knowledge. Evaluating these academic options alongside targeted certifications can help align continued education with long-term career growth.

What Emerging Trends Are Shaping the Cosmetology Industry?

The cosmetology field is rapidly evolving with shifts in consumer preferences, digital engagement, and sustainable practices. Innovations now include the integration of virtual consultations, personalized beauty regimens, and eco-friendly products—all of which are influencing both academic curricula and professional practice. Programs are adapting by incorporating advanced digital tools and marketing strategies that address modern consumer demands without sacrificing hands-on technical proficiency. Furthermore, many institutions are offering flexible pathways such as an accelerated associate's degree online to help students swiftly adapt to the dynamic marketplace. Staying informed about these trends positions future cosmetologists to leverage emerging opportunities while meeting the industry's shifting standards.

How Can Accelerated Online Bachelor's Degrees Complement My Cosmetology Education?

Despite an AAS degree providing essential technical and practical skills, pursuing further academic credentials can advance managerial proficiency and strategic industry insights. Accelerated online programs offer a streamlined path to acquiring contemporary business, marketing, and digital competencies that fill the gap between hands-on training and executive leadership. These programs, often delivered in flexible formats, are designed to integrate seamlessly with professional practice and help cosmetologists transition into roles encompassing salon management, product development, or entrepreneurial ventures. For comprehensive details on these opportunities, explore accelerated online bachelor's degrees.

FAQ

What degree do you need to be a cosmetologist? To become a cosmetologist, you need an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cosmetology. This degree includes coursework and hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, as well as business-related subjects.
How long does it take to complete an AAS in Cosmetology? The AAS in Cosmetology typically takes around two years to complete, including the required hours of hands-on training needed for licensure.
How much does a cosmetology degree cost? The cost of an AAS in Cosmetology ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school and location. Additional costs for textbooks, supplies, and specialized training may apply.
What are the job prospects for cosmetology graduates? Cosmetology graduates can pursue various careers, including hairstylists, barbers, skincare specialists, manicurists, and cosmetology instructors. Specialized fields like skincare and nail care have higher job growth rates.
Do I need a license to work as a cosmetologist? Yes, most states require cosmetologists to obtain a license. This involves graduating from an accredited cosmetology program, completing the required training hours, and passing state exams.
What specializations are available within cosmetology programs? Cosmetology programs offer specializations such as esthetics, hair design, makeup artistry, laser treatments, massage therapy, salon management, and more.
Can I study cosmetology online? While some theoretical components of cosmetology programs can be studied online, hands-on training must be completed in person to meet licensing requirements.
What kind of financial aid is available for cosmetology students? Financial aid options for cosmetology students include federal Pell Grants, scholarships from professional organizations like the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, and in-house grants from cosmetology schools.
What are the typical admission requirements for cosmetology programs? Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may have age requirements or require proof of basic competencies in reading and writing.
Is an AAS in Cosmetology worth it? An AAS in Cosmetology is a worthwhile investment for those passionate about the beauty industry. It provides essential skills and business knowledge, leading to various career opportunities and the potential for entrepreneurship.

References:

American Association of Cosmetology Schools. (2021, June 22). Grants & scholarships. American Association of Cosmetology Schools
Beauty School Programs. (2018, December 11). Cosmetology school outlook in 2019: What you need to know. Beauty School Programs
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, April 9a). Manicurists and pedicurists : Occupational outlook handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, April 9b). Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists : Occupational outlook handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Cosmetology-License.com. (2016, August 30). Cosmetology license requirements | Cosmetologist, hairdresser and hair stylist licensing. Cosmetology-License.com
CPT Guru. (2019, November 23). How much does cosmetology school cost? CPT Guru
Evergreen Beauty College. (2012, December 28). What are the requirements to get into a cosmetology school. Evergreen Beauty College https://www.evergreenbeauty.edu/blog/blogwhat-are-the-requirements-to-get-into-a-cosmetology-school/
Maxwell, M. (2019, May 14). The average cost of cosmetology school. The Classroom
Michalak, M. (2020). The role of a cosmetologist in the area of health promotion and health education: A systematic review. Health promotion perspectives, 10(4), 338. Tuoms Press
Pasadena City College. (2021). Cosmetology. Pasadena City Collegehttps://www.cosmetology-license.com/cosmetologist-license/
Seo, S., & Park, C. (2018). Effects of emotional labor for aestheticians on job stress, satisfaction, and turnover. Asian Journal of Beauty and Cosmetology, 16(3), 333-345. Asian Journal of Beauty and Cosmetology
Study.com. (2021). Cosmetology Certification: Certificate Program Outline. https://study.com/articles/Cosmetology_Certification_Certificate_Program_Outline.html