Cosmetology
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the field like?
Cosmetology is a constantly changing field. New techniques, products, and technologies are happening all
of the time. If you like change and are a positive, motivated individual who is artistic and enjoys making positive changes in
peoples' lives, this is the profession for you! There are many different licensing options in Washington State. Currently
cosmetology is the practice of hair care, natural nail care, and minimal skin care; manicuring is the practice of natural and
artificial nail care; and esthetics is the practice of caring for and improving the appearance of the skin. Watch our website for
updates on changes to the licenses Washington offers.
What programs does Spokane Community College offer?
SCC's Cosmetology department trains students to succeed in this challenging field. The department offers three options: a two-quarter
manicuring certificate program (temporarily suspended as of January 2010), a two-quarter esthetics certificate program
(temporarily suspended as of January 2010), and a full seven-quarter AAS degree cosmetology program. The cosmetology
option results in an associate in applied science (AAS) degree.
What qualities do I need to be successful in this field?
Qualities or abilities that professionals in these fields need to be successful are cooperating with
others, communicating (orally in English as well as reading and writing), solving problems, resolving conflicts, taking
responsibility, time management, learning new techniques, adapting to change, eye-hand coordination, and record keeping.
Good posture and the ability to stand for prolonged periods is a necessity in the cosmetology field; manicuring and esthetics
require prolonged periods of sitting. The fields of cosmetology, manicuring, and esthetics require a person who is
self-motivated; has a strong work ethic; and loves people, change, and new trends and techniques.
What classes will I take?
This depends upon which option you select:
- A full cosmetology license requires a minimum of 100 hours instruction in manicuring, 100 hours instruction in esthetics,
and an additional 1,400 hours or cosmetology training which includes but is not limited to: hair cutting, styling, braiding,
coloring, retexturizing, and color removal. After successfully completing the course work, you will be eligible to take the
Washington State practical and written examinations. After successfully passing both tests you will be prepared for
professional employment.
- State certification for manicuring requires 600 hours instruction in all aspects of artificial and natural nail care. After
successfully completing the course work, you will be eligible to take the Washington State practical and written examinations.
After successfully passing both tests you will be prepared for professional employment.
- In esthetics, the state certification requires 600 hours of skin care instruction consisting of all aspects of skin care and
the temporary removal of superfluous hair. After successfully completing the course work, you will be eligible to take the
Washington State practical and written examinations. After successfully passing both tests, you will be prepared for
professional employment.
In addition, one or more related classes are required per quarter for an AAS degree.
Where can I get a job?
Salons and spas are found everywhere, from small towns to large. Potential positions include
(depending on field chosen) esthetician, beauty therapist, cosmetologist, manicurist, make-up artist, image consultant,
nail technician, salon/spa manager, salon/spa owner, hairstylist, pedicurist, stylist, beauty advisor, instructor, hair
designer, hair dresser, hair colorist, wig technician, field representative for various manufacturers, and cosmetic
consultant.
Various forms of employment exist in these professions, including self-employment, working on a commission basis, or earning
an hourly salary.
Job opportunities are good for graduates in these fields, as well as for experienced operators and those who are seeking
part-time employment. There is an increasing demand for beauty services as our population ages. Men and women appreciate the
services provided in salons.
What can I expect to earn?
The professions of cosmetology, manicuring, and esthetics are fields that reward individuals according to what they are
willing to invest in time and training. Most successful individuals continue their education regularly to keep abreast of
changing technologies and trends, network with community members, and build their clientele through these activities.
Hourly rates for the professions vary. Cosmetology average starts at $9.01 and the high end is $25.16. Manicuring average
starts at $8.29 and the high end is $10.97. Esthetics average starts at $12.45 and the high end is $27.54. (Source:
www.workforceexplorer.com as of 1-25-2010)