Students Find Bountiful Career Opportunities in Cosmetology
More young men and women drawn by growing demand

In the past, students may have overlooked or underestimated the opportunities that a career in cosmetology could offer, but that's not the case anymore. Today's high school and college-age students are discovering cosmetology to not only be a good career choice, but financially rewarding as well.

Hair and much more
According to the United States Department of Labor, employment of hairdressers, hairstylists, cosmetologists, skin care specialists, and shampooers is projected to grow 10 to 20 percent through the year 2010. Employment of manicurists and pedicurists is expected to increase 21 to 35 percent over the same period. Other opportunities in beauty include:

• Cosmetology school educator
• Esthetician
• Hair color specialist
• Makeup artist
• Nail artist
• Salon owner/manager
• Spa owner/manager

Financially rewarding choice
American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Executive Director Jim Cox, says prospective cosmetology students and influencers of prospective students should realize the potential of what a career in cosmetology can offer. "Professionals in this industry truly represent the American dream where earnings opportunities and success potential are limited only by an individual's commitment and hard work."

According to the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) and the United States Department of Labor, experienced salon professionals can average up to $50,000 annually, including tips.

As the beauty industry employs nearly two million people in the United States, the demand for well-trained and enthusiastic professionals will only grow. To meet this demand, Cox says students and young adults should certainly attain their high-school diploma or GED and expect to complete their state's mandated number of hours of instructional and practice hours. "The national average required for a full cosmetology program ranges between 1,400 and 1,600 clock hours, but as a full-time student, you can usually complete a full cosmetology program in less than 18 months."

What about tuition?
Although tuition costs will vary from school to school, tuition typically ranges from $6,500 in small markets to upwards of $15,000 in major metropolitan areas. Costs for specialized programs such as certified esthetician or nail technician can range from $3,000 to $10,000. Cox says financial aid is available and the AACS offers its member schools access to scholarships and grants.

Before seriously considering a cosmetology career, Cox advises students to ask themselves several key questions—

• Are you interested in many different kinds of people and enjoy interacting with them and meeting their needs?
• Do you work well with your hands?
• Do you have a creative flair?
• Are you a good listener?
• Are you able to follow instructions?
• Do you have confidence in your talent, abilities and ideas?

Cox says, "If you can answer ‘yes' to all or most of these questions you're a good candidate to further explore ‘a beautiful career' in cosmetology."

Founded in 1924, AACS is a national non-profit association open to all privately owned cosmetology arts and science schools. AACS serves members by providing instructional education, sponsoring industry events and advancing awareness of cosmetology careers.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, demand for qualified hairdressers, hairstylists, cosmetologists, skin care specialists, and shampooers is projected to grow 10 to 20 percent through 2010. Meanwhile, employment of manicurists and pedicurists is expected to increase 21 to 35 percent.