What is Cosmetology?
Are you interested in hair design, hair coloring, skin care, and makeup artistry? Do you enjoy “hands on” training? Then this is the program for you.
The Cosmetology program at Somerset Community College offers comprehensive training in the study and application of beauty treatment. We offer students the technical skills and valuable life lessons that enable them to be successful in a fast-paced, consumer-driven industry.
Students in the program are required to receive at least 1,500 hours of instruction. The program incorporates individual instruction with group learning activities. Students attend theory classes and participate in hands-on training in the laboratory.
SCC’s Cosmetology program also has a loyal clientele of customers who give students ample opportunity to practice and perfect the skills needed for an exciting career.
What Can I Do With This Program?
Upon successful completion of the prescribed program, the graduate is prepared to take the Apprentice Cosmetology Examination. After successfully passing the practical and written Kentucky state board exams, the student is a licensed apprentice cosmetologist. Licensed apprentice cosmetologist must serve a six-month apprenticeship under the direct supervision of a licensed cosmetologist.
What are my career choices?
You may work as a stylist or cosmetology instructor. Cosmetologists are employed by beauty salons, spas, stores that sell cosmetics, and nursing and other residential-care homes. Many cosmetologists start their own businesses. Instructors are employed at cosmetology schools.
| Cosmetology Career | Median Annual
SalaryⓘBased on research conducted by the Kentucky Center for Education and Workforce Statistics
(KCEWS) in 2016 for the state of Kentucky.
|
|---|---|
| Apprentice Cosmetology Instructor | $49,682 |
| Cosmetologist | $22,432 |
| Nail Technician | $22,432 |
| Esthetician | $23,211 |
Overall employment for cosmetologists and other personal appearance workers is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Additional Criteria for Cosmetology
- Professionalism
- People skills
- Physical dexterity
- Problem-solving abilities
- Critical thinking
What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?
 |
| CERTIFICATE |
| Cosmetology (48 credit hours) |
| DIPLOMA |
| Cosmetology (57 credit hours) |
 |
 |
 |
Additional Information
Download Program Overview (pdf)
To learn how to apply, see the Admissions Checklist
Gainful Employment Information
- Apprentice Cosmetology Instructor Certificate
- Cosmetology Certificate
- Cosmetology Diploma
- Nail Technician Certificate
Length of Program
You can earn an associate in applied science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
