Cosmetology
A Challenging Career

To make a decision as important as choosing a cosmetology school, applicants should take the time to visit several facilities. They should not choose a school based only on tuition and fees. All schools are not alike, even though they may have similar course content. Pick a school that has the best curriculum for you, an informed staff, and satisfied students and customers. Also, make sure you ask about licensing and placement statistics.

The requirements for cosmetology in the State of Georgia are 1500 clock hours containing 1500 credits. This simply means that a student must be in attendance for 1500 hours, and during that time, must complete a combination of 1500 credits in the classroom and in services on mannequins and customers. This translates into 250 hours of theory in class before students advance to the clinic floor, where they will become accomplished in haircuts, colors, relaxers, permanent waves, shampoo/sets, waxes, manicures, and other cosmetology procedures.

The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology requires a high school diploma or GED for admission to a cosmetology school. Most schools also require proof of age. A graduate of cosmetology must be 17-years-old to take the State Board Exam. Once a graduate receives a license, it must be renewed every two years.

Upon choosing a school, an applicant should visit the Financial Aid office to get information on any aid available. Pell Grants and loans are available at just about every school. Veterans' benefits and partial scholarships are also usually offered at most schools.

Class start dates will vary based on the school you choose. Because of clock hours and services available, day or night classes, and individual attendance, it will take different amounts of time for different students to finish the course. Generally, at most schools, a student will complete the course of study in eleven to twelve months if attending day classes and fourteen to sixteen months if attending evening courses.

There are certain graduation specifications students must complete in order to finish the program of study. In addition to the 1500 contract hours and credits, academic and attendance requirements must be achieved. Most schools also require that all financial obligations are fulfilled before an exit interview is scheduled. At that time, the school sends in the paperwork needed to schedule the State Board Exam. The exams are usually held each month. If students fail any portion of the exam, they must apply again to retake the test. Upon passing, they are issued a license.

Once the coursework is successfully completed and graduates have passed the board exam, there are many options available.

Besides being Cosmetologists, they may choose to become Photo or Movie Stylists, Hair Color/Perm Specialists, Cosmetology Instructors, Image Consultants, Platform Artists/Educators, Product Distributors, and other avenues limited only by your imagination.

Photo/Movie Stylists have the opportunity to travel and to work on famous people. This can be a great adventure. Being a Cosmetology Instructor might be a rewarding career choice. You can see your accomplishments through the success of students you have taught. If you have a creative flair, as a Platform Artist you can use your talent to show the world your creations. On the other hand, if you enjoy conversation and networking, consider becoming an Image Consultant. Color or Perm Specialist can also be an exciting choice because when it comes to hair color and clients, each day is different and each client a new challenge.

Average compensation for a full-time Cosmetologist in 1990 was approximately $25,931, plus tips. In 1998, the salary was $35,193. Of course, salaries will vary based on where you work, your experience, and your skill.

The job market should always remain good because people will continue to get haircuts, color, relaxers, and permanent waves regardless of the state of the economy. If you enjoy working with people, explore your possibilities in Cosmetology!

Provided by Betty Hendrickson, Administrator at Arnold/Padrick's University of Cosmetology, Forest Park, GA.