Best Cosmetology Associate Programs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists working in the United States in 2019 exceeded 722,000. These careers require only a postsecondary certificate. However, candidates for cosmetology positions can increase their hireability by obtaining additional education, such as an associate degree in cosmetology.

Cosmetology programs prepare students for careers as nail technicians, makeup artists, estheticians, and hairstylists. Individuals who enjoy working one-on-one with clients and who are passionate about helping others feel good often thrive in these roles. Cosmetology professionals often work on weekends and evenings, but they typically set their own schedules.

This guide lists the best cosmetology associate programs, explores common program requirements, and describes financial aid options for cosmetology students.

Cosmetology refers to the study of beauty treatments, such as nail treatments, facials, hairstyling, and hair removal.

Most full-time students earn their associate degree in cosmetology in two years. However, the time frame depends on the program format and credit requirements.

Cosmetologists can provide a variety of services, including makeup application, nail painting, and hairstyling and cutting. Estheticians focus on the skin’s beauty and health.

Cosmetologists work on hair, skin, and nails. These professionals usually style and cut hair, most often women’s hair. Barbers only cut hair and often work only with men’s hair.

Learners pursuing an associate degree in cosmetology should devote time and research to finding the right program. This list of the best and most affordable cosmetology associate programs can help students narrow their search. Prospective students can use this list as a starting point but should contact their school’s admissions department for more detailed information.

Cosmetologists can perform a variety of tasks, including styling and cutting, giving facials, applying makeup, and doing manicures. Some cosmetology programs cover more of these skills than others.

Many professionals in the field specialize in 1-2 areas. For example, a cosmetologist may style and cut hair and offer hair-removal services. Another cosmetologist may focus on nail services.

Many cosmetologists are self-employed, while others work as employees at spas, salons, and resorts. Makeup artists may even work on studio sets or at photoshoots.

Cosmetology professionals need technical skills, such as haircutting techniques and safe application methods for hot wax. However, they must also possess strong interpersonal communication skills to build a loyal client base. Self-employed cosmetologists often need marketing and accounting skills to run their small business.

Cosmetologists must stay current on beauty trends. For this reason, many of these professionals read beauty magazines and blogs. They often follow industry influencers on social media to stay apprised of styles clients may request.

The table below highlights the median salary for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. However, factors such as location, experience, and specialization can impact a professional’s earning potential. For example, hairstylists generally earn different salaries than cosmetologists, and professionals with significant experience typically earn higher salaries.

Additionally, earning potential depends on the individual’s place of employment. Hairstylists who work in salons may earn less than self-employed stylists who set their own rates. Similarly, makeup artists located on the East Coast may charge more than those in the Midwest. Learners can research current job listings to become familiar with typical salaries in their region.

Source: BLS

Students researching schools should pay attention to accreditation status. Accreditation indicates that a school or program regularly passes quality assessments from a third-party organization. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee these third-party accrediting agencies.

Institutions can receive regional or national accreditation. National accreditation agencies typically evaluate trade schools, including cosmetology schools. The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) is one of the leading accrediting agencies for cosmetology schools and programs. More than 1,000 schools in the United States hold NACCAS accreditation.

Many employers and bachelor’s programs only recognize degrees earned from accredited institutions. To check a school or program’s accreditation status, learners can use the ED’s searchable database.

Associate in cosmetology programs usually require about 60 credits, or 20 courses. Some cosmetology programs allow learners to tailor the curriculum to their career goals. For example, cosmetology students may select from emphasis options in hair styling, nail grooming, and makeup application.

Before choosing an associate in cosmetology program, prospective students should make sure the program’s content matches their career goals. Reading through the program’s course descriptions can help learners determine whether the curriculum meets their academic needs. Students in cosmetology associate programs commonly take the courses below. However, course availability and content vary by program.

Cosmetology students attending an accredited school can qualify for various types of financial aid. Learners should begin by completing the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans. The FAFSA form takes about 40 minutes to complete and requires students to provide their financial information or that of their guardian.

Students may qualify for need-based grants or subsidized loans from the federal government. Grants do not require repayment, and subsidized loans do not begin accruing interest while the recipient is in school. While unsubsidized loans begin accruing interest immediately, recipients do not need to make payments until six months after graduation.

Students can review this guide for more detailed information about financial aid opportunities for distance learners.

The cost of earning an associate in cosmetology varies by school. However, students can often minimize their debt by applying for scholarships. Learners should allow adequate time for completing scholarship applications, since application requirements often include essays and recommendation letters. The five scholarships below are available exclusively to cosmetology students.

Who Can Apply: Twice a year, Beauty Schools Directory offers this scholarship to one student attending an eligible cosmetology or esthetician school. Applicants must submit an essay about their inspiration for pursuing a career in beauty and wellness.

Amount: $2,500

Who Can Apply: Twice a year, Beauty Schools Directory offers this scholarship to one student attending an eligible cosmetology or esthetician school. Applicants must submit an essay about their inspiration for pursuing a career in beauty and wellness.

Amount: $2,500

Who Can Apply: EstheticianEDU.org offers this scholarship to learners studying esthetics. Applicants must be enrolled in a degree or certificate program and need a minimum 3.5 GPA.

Amount: $500

Who Can Apply: Students enrolled in a cosmetology, barber, or esthetics program in the U.S. or Canada can apply. Applicants must submit a recommendation letter, a resume, and two photos that display their talent.

Amount: $12,000

Who Can Apply: Great Clips funds this scholarship to support cosmetology students. Applicants must answer essay questions about why they wish to become a cosmetologist and which services they plan to offer.

Amount: $250-$1,500