Cosmetology

The Cosmetology program offers a comprehensive curriculum to prepare students for the California State Board of Cosmetology Exam and diverse careers in the beauty industry. The curriculum encompasses theoretical and practical disciplines, featuring interactive demonstrations and hands-on applications. This training equips students to become creative professionals capable of obtaining entry-level employment as cosmetologists, nail technicians, aestheticians, salon managers, or small business owners.

The program requires a minimum of 1,000 hours, which can be completed in approximately one year with a full-time commitment. All students begin with the Intro to Cosmetology course, an introductory class that covers basic cosmetology principles and techniques. Students must have the cosmetology kit, books, and uniforms by the first week of the Intro to Cosmetology class. According to California State Board regulations, proof of 10th-grade high school completion is required before enrolling in the program.

After completing the Intro to Cosmetology course with a passing grade of 75% or above, students can advance to specialized classes in Haircutting, Hair Color, Hair Styling, Chemical Texture, Skin Care, Nail Care, State Board preparation, and Professional Development. Each of these classes focuses on specific aspects of the cosmetology field. To complete the program, students must pass all classes with a 75% or above grade. A class must be retaken to achieve a passing grade if it is not passed. Each class is offered twice a year, providing flexibility for part-time or full-time commitments. However, a full-time commitment is recommended to complete the program and obtain licensure within one year.

COSM 109-Salon, an elective 16-week lab class, provides salon experience and helps students accrue the necessary hours to meet board regulations. Upon successfully passing all classes and completing the 1,000-hour program, students will receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to take the California State Cosmetology Exam to become licensed cosmetologists. To obtain an Associate of Science degree after completing the cosmetology program, students must complete additional units as specified.

Students who dropped from the program twice due to unsafe or inappropriate conduct, excessive absences, and not passing a class with a 75% or better are not eligible to re-enroll unless approved by the college Petitions Committee. Additionally, if the student is dropped from a class for the above reasons, they will not accrue hours.

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded upon completion of all required courses with a grade of C or better.

72 annual completers

The modified Cosmetology program will align with the mission of the Career Technical Education school and the outcomes of Pasadena City College. The program's main goal is to prepare students to have the technical and intellectual skills to pass the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Exam, attain an Associate of Science degree, gain entry-level employment, and become creative professionals in the cosmetology industry. The program will also develop affiliations with local high schools to become part of the Statewide Career Pathways Project.

The revised program will be more student-focused. The classes will be topic-oriented for a higher level of training and education. Students will also have the flexibility to commit to the program full-time or part-time, allowing the completion of other certificates and/or degrees simultaneously.

The modified Cosmetology program is aligned with the PCC outcomes* and strives to prepare students to graduate as individuals who can thrive in today’s diverse society.

• Proof of 10th-grade high school completion is required before enrolling in the program.

CTE

Santa Monica, Citrus College

In Spring 2025, we anticipate an enrollment of 72 students across four fully occupied cohorts. Our introductory classes are currently in high demand and have waitlists, reflecting the growing interest in our program.

The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology has reduced the minimum required hours for state programs to 1,000 hours. Consequently, due to changes in Title IV regulations, students will no longer qualify for financial aid for any program exceeding the state's required hours. We must reduce our program by 600 hours to comply with Title IV.