Cosmetology Skills Guide

Recommended high school level background courses

• General and technical writing

• Reading comprehension

• Public speaking 

• Interpersonal communications 

• Algebra

• Geometry

• Anatomy and physiology

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Creative art

• Lifetime fitness

• Computer applications

• Intro to business

• Business management

• Marketing

• Personal finance

• Record keeping

• Safety/first aid

Basic skills in the program and on the job

Technical learning

Cosmetologists provide hair, nail and skin care services to people. It is very important that the high school student interested in a career as a cosmetologist loves to work and interact with people, has a friendly and out-going personality and is creative. Additionally, skills such as time management, the ability to make quick and accurate decisions and the patience to handle customer dissatisfaction are important. The student should also be able to endure standing for long periods of time. Besides the technical services he or she performs, the student must be able to document his or her work accurately and consistently. It is very important that the high school student takes the recommended high school classes so he or she has the foundation necessary to learn the concepts and methods required for cosmetology.

Reading

Students in this program must learn the importance and meaning of many technical terms. The student must be able to relate the accompanying text to the procedures he or she must perform. You must also be able to comprehend and follow a sequence of detailed directions in order to successfully complete a variety of services.

Language

Strong written, verbal, nonverbal and extra-verbal communication are important in the cosmetology program. All students in the A.A.S. program will complete at least one 2000 level English course, and students in the diploma program will complete two (2) credits in the area of English. Cosmetologists must be able to actively and emphatically listen for understanding, and present him or herself in a professional manner.

Math

Math skills are essential in the cosmetology program. High school courses in algebra and geometry will help the student be successful in this program. Cosmetologists use math concepts such as ratios, percentages, angles and so on in all the services they perform. All students in the A.A.S. program will complete at least one 2000 level mathematics course and students in the diploma program will complete two (2) credits in the area of mathematics.

Computer

A good understanding of computers, the Internet and file structures are important for success as a cosmetologist. The student should feel confident in his or her abilities to use software to complete his or her tasks. All students in the A.A.S. degree will take one 2000 level computers course.