Cosmetology Program

Cosmetology is a 1000-hour course of study designed to meet the State of California Cosmetology Act requirements for a student to test for a Cosmetology license. Butte College offers 1300 hours of study in a two-semester sequence.  Completion of the required academic and attendance standards enables students to earn an A.S. Degree in Cosmetology after meeting course and GE requirements.

 In two semesters students will acquire training to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for the state board exam and enter a wide range of careers in the Cosmetology industry. Courses include theory and practical application.  A focus on client services is critical to providing valuable hands-on experience in a salon type setting.

Career Opportunities:

Job opportunities in the field of cosmetology include working for chain and/or independent salons and spas, department store salons and cosmetic departments, beauty supply stores, retail and wholesale selling, spas and salons on luxury cruise ships, product representatives, research and development, salon manager, owners, educators, freelance stylist, hair and makeup services in motion picture television and film industry.  

 In order to obtain a license and practice in the State of California, students must be 17 years of age or older at time of the exam, have completed the 10th grade or the equivalent, successfully complete the required course of study, hours required, and pass the state board written exam.

The Cosmetology Program is undergoing substantial changes and modifications to comply with recent changes under SB 803. Which states, required training for cosmetology licensure be reduced to 1,000 hours and include industry specific training in skin care and domestic violence awareness. The program goals are to ensure students receive a high standard of education and training to successfully pass the state board written exam and enter the field of cosmetology in a two-semester sequence totaling 1,300 hours. Students will continue to have an opportunity to earn a Certificate of Achievement in Cosmetology after meeting course requirements.

Enrollment into the Cosmetology Program includes a one-time materials fee for a student kit assessed at the beginning of the program. There are optional material fees throughout the course sequence for specialized and advance training related to IRC to enhance students’ marketability upon entering the workforce.  

In compliance with provisions of Title 5, sections 55201 and 58106 the following information is provided: Adherence to the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering students must meet the following

·       To become license and practice in the State of California, students must be 17 years of age or older at time of the exam. 

·       Complete the 10th grade or the equivalent.

·       Successfully complete the required course of study, hours required, and pass the state board written exam.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

·       Safely and accurately use all equipment and products relating to the industry.

·       Demonstrate the most current methods and procedures using professional tools and equipment.

·       Apply necessary health and safety rules.

·       Demonstrate appropriate communication skills.

·       Demonstrate an orderly performance of all tasks and skills, establishing methodical habits without sacrificing artistic    skills.

The Cosmetology Program is undergoing substantial changes and modifications to comply with recent changes under SB 803. Which states, required training for cosmetology licensure be reduced to 1,000 hours and include industry specific training in skin care and domestic violence awareness. The program goals are to ensure students receive a high standard of education and training to successfully pass the state board written exam and enter the field of cosmetology in a two-semester sequence totaling 1,300 hours. Students will continue to have an opportunity to earn a Certificate of Achievement in Cosmetology after meeting course requirements.

Enrollment into the cosmetology program includes a one-time materials fee for a student kit assessed at the beginning of the program. There are optional material fees throughout the course sequence for specialized and advance training related to IRC to enhance students’ marketability upon entering the workforce.  

In compliance with provisions of Title 5, sections 55201 and 58106 the following information is provided: Adherence to the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering students must meet the following

·       To become license and practice in the State of California, students must be 17 years of age or older at time of the exam. 

·       Complete the 10th grade or the equivalent.

·       Successfully complete the required course of study, hours required, and pass the state board written exam.