Cosmetologists work with patrons of a salon to help them achieve or maintain a well-groomed appearance. They wash, cut, style, and color hair, apply makeup, and provide manicures and pedicures. As an aspiring cosmetologist, your first step is to determine your career path. There are several options for cosmetologists in the beauty industry, and the path you choose will determine your day-to-day activities once you’re employed. Some cosmetologists discover they have a knack for hair and focus primarily on cuts, permanent waves, straightening, coloring, and installing and caring for wigs. Another career path involves care for skin and nails. Cosmetologists who care for nails are call manicurists Skincare services include massages, facials, removal of excess facial hair, and scalp treatments.
Enrolling in a state-approved cosmetology program is the next step. Here you will acquire knowledge and practice related to all areas of the industry. California’s regulated curriculum covers a minimum of 1,600 hours of coursework in cosmetology chemistry, thermal hair styling, permanent waving, chemical straightening, hair cutting and coloring, makeup, manicuring, pedicuring, facials, and much more. Graduates will be eligible to take the next step which is to take and pass the state licensing exam issued by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. You must be at least 17 years of age, completed the 10th grade or higher, completed an approved cosmetology program, or completed an apprenticeship program in cosmetology. The BLS predicts that the number of jobs for cosmetologists will increase 8 percent between 2018 and 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. This projected growth will create an additional 63,900 new jobs by 2028.
KC Beauty Academy
KC Beauty Academy’s Cosmetology program provides the training and skills that are essential for a career as a cosmetologist. The curriculum delivers 1,600 clock hours of theory and practice in the fundamentals of hairdressing, coloring, precision hair cutting, permanent waving, and more. Both classroom and technical components will cover manicuring and skin care services. Other related subjects such as anatomy, chemistry, and health will have a substantial role in the classroom. Through the use of the Milady curriculum, students will develop the ability to see, think, create, and adapt as designers. Additional training in salon management, communication, professionalism, salesmanship, record keeping, resume development, and interview preparation will ensure that students have the best chance of success in the industry. Graduates will be prepared to take the California State Board Cosmetology exam to become a licensed cosmetologist. Day and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Program
Duration: 10 months (full-time) 18 months (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Complete an Admissions Application and pay the non-refundable registration fee of $100
- Provide proof of age – a valid government-issued ID
- Provide proof of social security number or tax identification number
- Demonstrate proof of successfully completing high school diploma, official high school transcript showing completion, GED certificate, and state certification of home-school completion
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
- Applicants with a record of a felony will not be admitted
- Review the catalog before signing the enrollment agreement
Program cost:
The estimated total charges for the program is $13,785. It includes the registration fee, tuition, supplies, and textbooks.
Website: https://www.kcbeautyacademy.com/
Address: 706 E. 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: 213-253-9999
Neihule Academy of Beauty
Neihule Academy of Beauty provides the tools for cosmetology students to develop their natural flair for color, design, and style. Low student-to-instructor ratios in the classroom and salon provide a personal environment for learning and developing confidence. Students will have the opportunity to work with real clients in the student salon after extensive training on mannequins. The hands-on experiences in design, hair care, skin care, and manicuring is a major feature of the curriculum. Additional instruction in communication, management, and professionalism is designed to aid students in the acquisition of their first job and to attract new clients and build a brand. Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the state cosmetology exam.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Program
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Complete an Admissions Application
- Provide proof of age – a valid government-issued ID
- Provide proof of social security number or tax identification number
- Demonstrate proof of successfully completing high school diploma, official high school transcript showing completion, GED certificate, and state certification of home-school completion
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
Program cost:
New students receive 50% off the tuition for a limited time.
Website: https://www.neihuleacademy.com/
Address: 305 East 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Phone: (213) 395-0947
Palace Beauty College
The cosmetology program at Palace Beauty College includes technical instruction and practical operations in the practices related to the art of cosmetology. Areas of study include press and curl, thermal hair styling, chemical straightening, hair cutting, hair coloring, and nail wraps and repair, and skin care. Additional training in salon management, communication skills, professionalism, decorum, and client service record cards will prepare students for employment and entrepreneurship. At the conclusion of the program, students will understand state laws and regulations that govern practice, sanitization and sterilization related to the phases of hair, skin, and nails, and business management techniques common to the profession. Students must complete the theory and operations with a minimum grade of 70% to graduate from the program. Day classes start at 9:00 am and evening classes start at 6:00 pm.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 16 months
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Have a high school diploma or its equivalent, GED, a high school transcript showing high school completion, passing scores for the California State Proficiency Exam, or evidence of completion of homeschooling
- Applicants with no high school diploma or equivalent must be at least 18 years old and have completed the 10th-grade education level or equivalent. Applicants will be required to pass an Ability-to-Benefit exam before admission
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
- Complete an Admissions Application
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
Program cost:
The estimated total charge for the program is $14,500. It includes the registration fee, application fee, tuition, kit, and textbooks.
Website: http://www.palacebeautycollege.com/
Address: 1517 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Phone: (323) 731-2075
Email: admissions@palacebeautycollege.com
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
The LATTC Cosmetology program meets the state requirements for persons entering the field. The training covers 1600 clock hours of theory and practical instruction in hair styling, hair cutting, hair straightening, skin care, and nail care. A major objective of the program is to prepare students for success on the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology examination. As such, a mock state board exam will be included in the training to help familiarize the students with the examination procedures. Upon successful completion of the requirements, students will have the knowledge and skills to work in the Beauty industry as stylists, salon managers, manicurists, educators, and business owners.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate
Duration: 4 semesters
Clock hours: 1,600
Major units: 48
Prerequisites:
- Submit an application for admission to LATTC
- Must have a valid ID and social security card
Program cost:
The enrollment fee of the program is $46 per unit. Additional program fees include cosmetology equipment kit ($712 plus tax), supplies and uniform, shoes, and textbooks.
Website: https://www.lattc.edu/
Address: 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles 90015
Phone: (213) 763-7000
Fax: (213) 763-5393
Toni & Guy
The cosmetology program offered by Toni & Guy is designed for adults seeking licensure in California. The curriculum is dividing into five levels -each with one to three sections. Areas of study include classic haircutting and coloring, practice on mannequins and models, state board prep, and salon professional levels. Graduates will be qualified hairdressers who can provide professional haircutting, coloring, and hairdressing services. They will be qualified to fill entry-level positions in the cosmetology industry.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate
Duration: 53 to 67 weeks
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Must have completed high school. Provide documentation of a high school diploma, GED, HiSET, or transcripts
- Attend an interview and campus tour
- Take and pass the entrance exam with a minimum score of 14 out of 50
- Must be proficient in English
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $24,535.41 inclusive of technical tool kit and textbook and media kit.
Website: https://toniguy.edu/
Address: 464 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: (310) 451-0101
Academy for Salon Professionals
The cosmetology program offered by the Academy for Salon Professionals seeks to inspire students to think beyond the chair and pursue opportunities in salon management, print advertising, runway, marketing, product development, and sales. The curriculum includes classroom lectures and coaching in practical skills to prepare students for licensure. Instructors will use lectures, facilitator demonstrations, hands-on training with mannequins, group projects, and one-on-one coaching to deliver the course content. The program consists of three phases. Students must pass all practical and written tests and the final exam to move on to the next phase. Practical experiences on the salon floor begin in the second phase. Graduates will be eligible to take the state exam to become a licensed cosmetologist. Classes meet Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate Program
Duration: 49 weeks
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend a career planning session and campus tour
- Submit a completed Application for Admission and non-refundable application fee of $65
- Must have a valid social security card and state ID or driver’s license or passport
- Must be proficient in English
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $19,753. It includes tuition, registration, supplies, and fees.
Website: https://academyla.com/
Address: 19520 Nordhoff Street #9, Northridge CA 91324
Phone: 818-701-5799
Alt: 818-701-5227
Email: Admissions@AcademyLA.com
CR’U Institute – Barber School Los Angeles
CR’U’s Institute’s Cosmetology program teaches the best techniques for washing, cutting, coloring and styling hair. Expert instructors will also cover makeup artistry and skin care. The curriculum covers 1600 hours of instruction with assessments at several points to gauge students’ understanding of the content. The training will include extensive training in the classroom and technical training with live clients in the areas of straightening, facials, eyebrow sculpting, manicures, pedicures, and hair curling. Training will also cover front-end salon management and merchandising techniques. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive a Certificate of Completion and will be eligible to take the Licensing Exam of the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 11 months (full-time) 14 months (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Must have successfully completed high school or its equivalent
- Attend a campus tour and complete the Enrollment Application
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $18,000. Books and supplies cost an additional $1,700.
Website: https://www.cruinstitute.com/
Address: 11889 Valley View St. unit #C Garden Grove, CA 92845
Phone: 714-660-7881
Email: admissions@cruinstitute.com
International College of Beauty & Sciences
Students enrolled in the Cosmetology program at the International College of Beauty and Sciences will acquire knowledge and skills to assume entry-level employment in the beauty industry. The technical and operational content will cover California’s laws governing the cosmetology industry, sanitation and sterilization related to hair, skin and nails, anatomy, physiology and chemistry, business management techniques, and health and hazardous substances. Graduates of the state-approved program will be eligible to take the state exam to become a licensed cosmetologist.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 44 weeks (full-time) 65 weeks (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Must attend an initial personal interview
- Complete financial arrangement before admissions
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Attend a campus tour before enrolling
- Pay the non-refundable application fee of $100
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Applicants with no high school diploma must be at least 18 years of age and have completed at least the 10th-grade education
- Must complete an Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $21,752,36. It includes tuition, registration fee, kit, books, uniforms, and tax.
Website: https://www.icbas.edu/programs
Address: 5225 W San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles, California 90039
Phone: 818-280-4898
Western Barber Institute
The cosmetology program at Western Barber Institute covers all aspects of hair styling, manicuring, and skincare to prepare students for the state licensure exam. The curriculum covers 1,600 contact hours in accordance with state laws. Subjects include industry rules and regulations, safety and sanitary requirements, hair cutting, hair styling, chemical application, makeup application, manicuring, pedicuring, personal grooming, professionalism, and personal and business ethics. Four scheduling options are available.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 53 weeks (full-time) 66 weeks (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, or high school transcripts
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Attend a campus tour before enrolling
- Must complete an Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $8,320.75. It includes tuition, registration fee, equipment, and books.
Website: https://wbi.edu/
Address: 18442 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 91335
Phone: (818) 578-6344
Academy of Beauty
The cosmetology course at the Academy of Beauty combines technical and practical operations in the art of cosmetology to prepare students for state licensure and employment in the beauty industry. Instruction will include cosmetology chemistry, health and safety, disinfection and sanitation, bacteriology, anatomy and physiology, thermal hair styling, permanent waving, and other related topics. Students will learn the laws and regulations governing cosmetology establishments in California, business management techniques, general theory related to cosmetology, and sanitation and sterilization related to skin, hair, and nails. Five enrollment options are available for the program: full-time morning, part-time morning, full-time afternoon, part-time afternoon, and part-time evening.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 10 to 20 months
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent or completed the 10th grade and pass an independently given test or ability to benefit test
- Applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree in a state-approved and accredited university may provide a copy of the degree in lieu of the high school diploma
- Must demonstrate English proficiency
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $14,100. It includes tuition, registration fee, and kit. A zero-interest payment plan is available for all students.
Website: http://theacademy.la/
Address: 3834 Main Street, Culver City, CA 90232
Phone: (310)-837-0411 or (310) 837-4417
Fax: 1 (323) 375-0447
Email: timnguyen114@msn.com
Beyond XXI Century Beauty Academy
Upon completion of the 1,600 hours of the required technical and operational requirements of the cosmetology program at Beyond XXI Century, students will understand the art and science of cosmetology and be qualified as a hair stylist, skincare specialist, or manicuring specialist. The curriculum will cover the State Board rules and regulations, administrative requirements of cosmetologists, professional salon management, career and resume development, job skills, professionalism, scientific skincare, and manicuring. The laboratory segment of the program will cover tools and equipment, stations set-up and operation, mannequin care and handling, patron relations and salesmanship, scientific skincare, chemical hair changing, special make-up applications, and procedures, and advanced acrylic nails, wraps, and tips. Students are expected to complete all hours and assignments to graduate from the program. Full-time and part-time schedules are available.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 11 months (full-time) 20 months (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, state proficiency test or its equivalent
- Pass a Milady admission test with a minimum score of 60%
- Applicants without an equivalent to a high school education must be at least 18 years old and obtain admission under the school’s Ability to Benefit procedures
- Must be proficient in written and verbal English
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $17,560. It includes tuition, registration fee, kit and books.
Website: https://www.beyondcosmo.com/
Address: 13640 Imperial Highway, Suite 6,7,8, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
Phone: 562.404.6193
Email: info@beyondcosmo.com
American Beauty College
The cosmetology program at American Beauty College covers the phases of cosmetology, skin care, manicuring, and pedicuring as mandated by the California State Board of Barbering. Technical and practical operations are designed to prepare students for success on the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensing exam to qualify for an entry-level position in the Beauty Industry. Instruction in the classroom will comprise of lectures, cooperative learning, interactive learning activities, group discussions, videos, guest speakers, and DVD learning styles. Students must meet the objectives of both the theory and clinical applications and obtain a satisfactory grade of C (70% or better) to pass the class.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, state proficiency test or its equivalent
- Applicants may be accepted as ATB students only if applying for Financial Aid and were studying at a vocational career college, community college, or university that accepted ATB students – must have passed an ATB test
- Must have a social security card (tax ID number), driver’s license or California ID, birth certificate, and proof of income for financial aid applicants
- Must be a California resident
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $20,175. It includes tuition, registration fee, kit and supplies, and other charges. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://americanbeautycollege.edu/
Address: 646 S. Sunset Ave, West Covina, Los Angeles County, CA 91790
Phone: (626) 472-7402
Email: enroll@americanbeautycollege.com
Salon Success Academy
Salon Success Academy has a reputation for producing top cosmetologists for more than 60 years. The cosmetology program blends comprehensive classroom instruction, hands-on practice, personal mentorship from experienced cosmetologists. The curriculum will cover modern techniques in hair cutting, coloring, and styling, facials, manicuring, pedicuring, client development, eyebrow arching, chemical hair straightening, and perming. During the clinical sessions, students will gain experience working in a professional salon working with real clients. Preparation for the state board exam will give students additional confidence to succeed on the exam to start a career as a licensed cosmetologist. Graduates can work as salon owners, salon managers, platform artists, professional makeup artist, or sale consultant. Part-time and full-time schedules are available. Full-time students will complete 35 hours per week. The option to attend 40 hours per week is available for students who want to accelerate their graduation date.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate of Completion
Duration: 48 weeks (full-time) 70 weeks (part-time)
Clock hours: 1,600
Prerequisites:
- Provide a copy of high school diploma, GED, state proficiency test or its equivalent
- Must furnish a copy of social security card or tax identification number
- Must be at least 17 years by the end of the program
- Must present an acceptable form of ID to confirm age – driver’s license, state ID, permanent resident card, passport, or original birth certificate
- Attend an interview with a representative of the Admissions Department
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $23,000. It includes tuition, registration fee, and supplies. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://www.salonsuccessacademy.com/
Address: 2097 Compton Ave. Ste 201, Corona, CA 92881
Phone: (877) 987-4247
How Long Does It Take to Become a Cosmetologist In Los Angeles?
Cosmetologists must complete at least 1600 hours of theory and practical instruction in preparation for licensure and practice. Graduates must take and pass a written exam to be eligible for a license to practice. Cosmetology programs in Los Angeles may be completed in 11 months of full-time attendance and 14 months of part-time attendance.
How Much Does a Cosmetologist Make in Los Angeles?
Cosmetologists work in barber shops, hair salons, and spas. According to a Labor Market Analysis report on Cosmetology and Barbering in Los Angeles, cosmetologists have entry-level wages of $18.10 per hour. Cosmetologists who work as make-up artists and in theatrical and performance earn higher that the county’s self-sufficiency wage of $45.85. Most barbers and hairdressers are employees and do not earn wages as high as their self-employed counterparts.
How Much Does Cosmetologist School Cost in Los Angeles?
A 1600-hour pre-licensure cosmetology program can cost an average of $21,500 at private institutions. The cosmetology programs offered at community colleges can cost approximately $6,100 for California residents. The cost covers the $46 per unit enrollment fee plus the cost of books, kit and supplies.
Can I Get My Cosmetologist License Online in Los Angeles?
You may submit your application for initial licensure and apply to take the test, administered by PSI, online.
What Are the Requirements to Be a Cosmetologist in Los Angeles?
Cosmetologists are licensed and regulated in California by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is the Board’s responsibility to uphold cosmetologists’ adherence to State law and infection control standards.
Cosmetology services may be only legally performed by State-licensed cosmetologists in State-licensed salons and barbershops.
You do not need to be licensed by the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology if:
- You plan to sell, fit, or style wigs or hairpieces; or
- You are a natural hair braider – as long as the service does not include shampooing, haircutting, or application of dyes, reactive chemicals, or other preparations to alter the color of hair or to straighten, curl, or alter the structure of the hair
As of January 1, 2022, cosmetologists do not need to take a practical exam as part of the exam process. The written exam is the only exam needed for licensure. Candidates for examination will receive a PSI handbook from the Board once their application is approved. Candidates will then need to schedule the written exam at a PSI location of their choice.
The exam is available in English, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Simplified Chinese. Candidates who cannot read, speak, or write in English at a 10th grade-level, may request approval to use an interpreter if the exam is not available in their native language.
The cosmetology exam takes 120 minutes to complete and covers 100 score questions and 10 pretest questions.
The Test Registration Form is available online at PSI’s website. You must create an account before paying and scheduling the exam.
A valid ID must be provided for admittance to the test. Examples of valid ID include:
- A current state-issued driver’s license
- An unexpired ID card
- A valid passport
- A permanent resident card
- A current U.S. military-issued ID card
All candidates will have their thumbprint taken during examination check-in. Purses, cellular phones, calculators, textbooks, food, electronic devices, personal pens or pencils, hats, smart devices, and headphones are some of the items not permitted in the testing room.
A computer-based test is available at some test sites. Your results will be printed and handed to you at the end of the computerized test.
The initial license fee is $125 for cosmetologists.