Cosmetology focuses on chemical texturizing, coloring, cutting, styling, manicuring, pedicuring, artificial nails, and skin care. The classroom experience includes work on mannequins, other students, and the public. Salon management, anatomy, sanitation, chemistry, electricity, and state laws are areas of focus. Students earn 1250 hours of instruction and are eligible to test to become a licensed cosmetologist in Pennsylvania.
Technical Skills:
Hair care – chemical texturizing, coloring, cutting, and styling • Nail care –manicure, pedicure & artificial • Skin care – facials, makeup, and hair removal • Sanitation and PA State Board of Cosmetology rules and regulations • Salon management
Professional Skills:
Communication • Teamwork • Time management • Problem-Solving • Organization • Creativity • Social Skills • Adaptability
Career Opportunities or Field Positions:
Cosmetologist • Nail Technician • Esthetician • Lash Specialist • Cosmetology Instructor • Platform Artist • Sales Consultant
What Certifications can I earn?
State Board of Cosmetology Examination – Upon successful program completion.
Cosmetologist License
Career Safe OSHA certification
What College Credits can I earn?
Click here for information on how you can earn college credits while in your Career Tech program.
Program Requirements and Expectations:
Ability to use computers • Creative team player • Great customer service and people skills • Self-motivated with a strong desire to learn • Open Minded and adaptability to any situation • Stamina and dexterity • Good grooming habits • Effective Listening • Passionate about the career path • Attendance is critical
Uniform Requirements:
A CareerTech gray or blue t-shirt is required. In addition, the following CareerTech items may also be purchased: Crew neck sweatshirt, gray or blue embroidered ¼ zip sweatshirt (special order), or zip fleece. Uniforms may be ordered online or purchased at the school store.
Black scrub pants. May be purchased from vendor of your choice.
Solid black leather, athletic shoes OR solid on the top/no holes, black Croc style shoes with black soles.
Out-of-Pocket Costs:
School Uniforms
Lab Kit – Approximately $300
Student Organizations?
Students may join the SkillsUSA student organization. This club brings students who share common interests together for an exchange of ideas and the opportunity to work towards a common purpose. It offers students recognition through a national program of awards and contests and seeks to cultivate excellence in leadership and in their technical skills. Visit http://www.skillsusa.org/ for more information.
What else should I know?
Attendance is critical in Cosmetology to achieve the 1250-hour requirement.
Toni Parson
Mrs. Parson is a CareerTech alumna of the Cosmetology program. During high school she earned her Cosmetology license and began working in a salon. Her industry experience eventually led her to a management position at a highly successful salon. Mrs. Parson has a bachelor’s degree in Workforce Education from Penn State. She contributes over 20 years of teaching at CareerTech.
Casey Fore
Mrs. Fore is a CareerTech alumna of the Cosmetology program. She worked in a successful salon after earning her Cosmetology license. Mrs. Fore later returned to CareerTech as an adult and earned her Cosmetology Teacher License. She has over 10 years of industry experience.
