Associate of Science Degree, Cosmetology

This program prepares students for careers in the cosmetology industry through instruction in the theory and practical application of hair, skin, and nail care. Students develop technical skills in haircutting, hairstyling, chemical services, hair coloring, skincare, nail services, and makeup application. The curriculum also includes instruction in state laws and State Board standards of safety and sanitation required for professional practice and licensure. The program features unique course sequencing, including summer and evening courses, allowing students to complete the program in as little as one year. Students who complete all graduation requirements and earn a grade of “C” or better in each required course will be awarded an Associate of Science in Cosmetology.

In the 2024-2025 academic year, there were 18 completions for the Associate Degree of Cosmetology program. Success rates averaged 94.7% and retention rates averaged 95.6% across the previous three academic years: 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25. With the sequence of Cosmetology courses shifting from seven courses to five, we anticipate an increase in completions (approximately 25-40 students).

The Cosmetology program advances workforce development, career technical education (CTE), and regional economic sustainability. As a hands-on, industry-aligned program, cosmetology provides students with accessible pathways to licensure, employment, and entrepreneurship within a high-demand service sector. By preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce, the program contributes to local job placement, small business development, and community economic growth, which aligns with the college’s mission to support regional workforce needs. 

The program also supports BCC’s Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILOs) by fostering applied knowledge, critical thinking, communication, professionalism, and ethical responsibility. Students develop discipline-specific technical skills while applying foundational principles of science, sanitation, and safety. Through client consultations and salon simulations, students strengthen interpersonal communication, customer service, and cultural competency skills essential for working in diverse community settings. 
In addition, the cosmetology program promotes lifelong learning and professional growth by preparing students not only for state licensure but also for continued advancement in specialty certifications, business ownership, and instructional pathways. 

The curriculum integrates practical skill development with theoretical understanding, reinforcing accountability, time management, problem-solving, and professional conduct—competencies that reflect the college’s broader educational goals. By combining technical training with institutional core competencies, the Cosmetology program serves as both a workforce pipeline and a vehicle for student achievement, equity, and upward mobility within the Barstow community and surrounding region.

Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Deduce valid conclusions, compare viable techniques and apply principles in preparation of the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology practical and written exam. 

2. Identify and analyze concepts leading to synthesis of theory for the state board written exam.  

3. Produce a business plan and portfolio. 

4. Demonstrate entry level skills in a clinic laboratory setting. 

5. Demonstrate workplace behaviors (soft skills) necessary for success in the cosmetology industry 

The Cosmetology program at Barstow Community College is part of the college’s Career Technical Education (CTE) offerings within the Business and Entrepreneurship pathway. The program is designed to prepare students with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies required for successful completion of the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensure examination and for immediate entry into the workforce.

The program requirements are the same as for the Cosmetology Certificate. The courses naturally progress as concepts are constructed to build cosmetology knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for the State Board exam. The first semester is an introduction to cosmetology fundamentals, haircutting, and product knowledge. The second semester focuses on cosmetology science along with nail and skin fundamentals. The third session (summer or nine week session) looks at the business side of cosmetology while preparing to take the State Board exam.