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Cosmetology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Associate Degree

A.S. in Cosmetology

The course of study meets guidelines implemented by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is designed to train students to become a licensed professional within the cosmetology industry. Students will receive a certificate of completion and have an option to earn an Associate of Science Degree. The program requires a minimum 1000 hours (2 semesters) of training and the completion of program required operational credits. Students will receive a Proof of Training to take the BBC written Exam to become a licensed cosmetology professional. Training includes the implementation of health and safety, disinfecting, sanitation and sterilization. Included are subjects in science as they relate to the field. Areas of study include, chemistry, bacteriology, micro-biology, hair structure, electricity, salon business, effective communication, professional development, customer relations, hair styling, thermal styling, hair cutting, hair coloring, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, various facial procedures, manicure, pedicure techniques, current trends, and state board rules and regulations.



Required is the completion of the prerequisite COSM 100 course with a grade of "C" or better within a 2-year period, prior to the beginning semester.

In COSM 100, students will be introduced to the cosmetology and nail technology programs that are offered by the cosmetology department. The course is designed to provide students a clear understanding of program rules, regulations, procedures, and requirements. Included are the policies of the Sacramento City College, the SCC Campus Student Code of Conduct and the introduction of campus services, such as EOPS, Financial Aid, Cal Works Counseling, DSPS, and Campus Police. In addition, students will be introduced to customer relations, professionalism, and team building.



Procedures: On the first day of COSM 100, students will designate a preference for one of the course offerings options listed below. If too many students select one of the options, a lottery will be held to fill the class. Students who are not selected will have the opportunity to register for their second preference. This process will continue until all courses have been filled.



Spring COSM 115/COSM 117 day

Spring COSM 150/COSM 151 day

Fall COSM 115/COSM 117 day

Fall COSM 150/COSM 151 day



Recommended High School Preparation: English, math, art, basic anatomy and physiology, and basic chemistry.

Prospective students must have completed the 10th grade.



Program Costs: Approximately $3,700.00 is estimated for the beginning cosmetology semester and approximately $2,500.00 is estimated for the nail technology semester; for the textbook package, kit, and uniforms, shoes, personal supplies, and materials. SCC Cosmetology Department recommends the purchase of the hard cover or digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab”, the SCC Cosmetology or Nail Technology kit and uniforms by the first day of class. In addition, there will be costs each semester of the cosmetology program for: uniforms, program materials, and supplies, etc. The cosmetology and nail technology kits, textbook package, and some uniform items are available at the SCC College Store. Students who anticipate that these costs may create a financial burden should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance, as soon as possible. Students need to apply for financial aid at least one semester prior to the start of the program.



Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
Enrollment Eligibility:
COSM 100 Introduction to Cosmetology 2
First full semester:
COSM 115 Technical and Theoretical Principles - Lecture 5
COSM 117 Basic Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory 10
Second full semester:
COSM 135 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Theory 7.5
COSM 137 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory 7.5
Total Units: 32

The Cosmetology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 16 years of age and have completed the 10th grade.
  • Have complete the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • By completing the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better, within a 2 year period of starting the program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • apply technical knowledge and practical skills relating to the salon workplace.
  • utilize specialized learning and mastery connecting to the California State Board Exam.
  • analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying experience, knowledge, and communication skills in customer relations, professionalism, salon business, and management.
  • measure salon readiness through acquired skills and evaluation.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to apply to the field of cosmetology.
  • incorporate and build on practical skills and the quality of their valuable work using the functional textbook study guide rubric self-assessment scale, available per chapter lesson.
  • complete all practical and operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Exam.
  • extend and build on their theological knowledge and the quality of the foundation relating to their practical work using the textbook study guide Rubik's self-assessment scale.
  • identify operational, technical sequential skills needed to be successful in the salon workplace and to pass the California State Board Written Exam.
  • define California State Board Rules and Regulations, sanitation, disinfection, client protection, health, and safety as it pertains to the salon workplace and the California State Board Written Exam.
  • complete all theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.
  • apply science related subjects to the technical and practical skills learned.

Career Information

There is a broad spectrum of careers for a licensed cosmetology professional. Many are self-employed, while others are employed in large or small establishments. A cosmetologist may work in the entertainment industry or specialize as a platform artist, hair colorist, hairstylist or hair cutting specialist. Many are salon owners, managers or educators. The field provides an opportunity to travel all over the world representing hair, cosmetic, nail, and skincare manufactures.

Certificates of Achievement

Art and Science of Nail Technology Certificate

This program consists of the following: beginning, intermediate, and advanced training in the art and science of nail technology. Completion of these 500 hours of theoretical and operational requirements will prepare students to meet the requirements to sit for the California State Examination in Manicuring, and will prepare students for employment. The program includes professional image, basic procedures for manicuring including hand and arm massage, basic procedures for pedicure including foot and ankle massage, acrylic nails, nail tips and wraps, gel nails including light and no-light cured, basic electric file techniques, basic airbrushing techniques, nail art and design, customer relations, professionalism, and salon business.



Recommended High School Preparation: art, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, English, and math.



Program Costs: Approximately $700.00 is required at the beginning of the semester for textbooks, kit, uniforms, and personal supplies. In addition, there will be costs throughout the semester for program materials and supplies. Students must purchase the required kit and textbooks by the end of the first week of class or they may be dropped from the program for that semester. The student kit, textbooks, and some uniform items are available at the SCC College Store. Students who anticipate that these costs may create a financial burden should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance. Students need to apply for financial aid at least one semester prior to the start of the program.



Completion of COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better is required within a two year period prior to the beginning of the cosmetology and nail technology (manicure) courses. A proof of completion form for COSM 100 will be issued and must be presented on the first day of the next COSM course. In COSM 100, students will be introduced to the field of Cosmetology and Nail Technology (manicuring). The course is designed to give students a clear understanding of the subject matter and procedures of Cosmetology and Nail Technology, along with the policies of the SCC Cosmetology Department. In addition, students will receive training in customer relations, professionalism, and working with other students.



Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology programs (public or private) must complete COSM 100. After successful completion of the course, the student's records will be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
COSM 100 Introduction to Cosmetology 2
COSM 150 Art and Science of Nail Technology 7
COSM 151 Art and Science of Nail Technology - Lab 5.5
Total Units: 14.5

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Have completed COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • By lottery on the last day of the COSM 100 class.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate the latest manicuring and pedicuring procedures and techniques for the salon workplace.
  • adapt skills in nail enhancements to meet industry standards and client need.
  • demonstrate technical knowledge and skills relating to implements, equipment, and materials; nail cosmetic preparation; clean-up, and disposal of hazardous waste.
  • demonstrate skills learned in the nail technology program pertaining to client interaction, concentrating on client health and safety, client analysis, and evaluation of products used in all phases of nail technology.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks in nail technology procedures in preparation for the California State Board of Cosmetology written and practical examination.

Career Information

The nail technology field is one of the fastest growing of the cosmetology industry. This lucrative field employs both men and women, and it provides an opportunity to work for a large or small establishment, as well as being self-employed.


Cosmetology Certificate

The course of study meets guidelines implemented by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is designed to train students to become a licensed professional within the cosmetology industry. Students will receive a certificate of completion and have an option to earn an Associate of Science Degree. The program requires a minimum 1000 hours (2 semesters) of training and the completion of program required operational credits. Students will receive a Proof of Training to take the BBC written Exam to become a licensed cosmetology professional. Training includes the implementation of health and safety, disinfecting, sanitation and sterilization. Included are subjects in science as they relate to the field. Areas of study include, chemistry, bacteriology, micro-biology, hair structure, electricity, salon business, effective communication, professional development, customer relations, hair styling, thermal styling, hair cutting, hair coloring, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, various facial procedures, manicure, pedicure techniques, current trends, and state board rules and regulations.



Required is the completion of the prerequisite COSM 100 course with a grade of "C" or better within a 2-year period, prior to the beginning semester.

In COSM 100, students will be introduced to the cosmetology and nail technology programs that are offered by the cosmetology department. The course is designed to provide students a clear understanding of program rules, regulations, procedures, and requirements. Included are the policies of the Sacramento City College, the SCC Campus Student Code of Conduct and the introduction of campus services, such as EOPS, Financial Aid, Cal Works Counseling, DSPS, and Campus Police. In addition, students will be introduced to customer relations, professionalism, and team building.



Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.



Procedures: On the first day of COSM 100, students will designate a preference for one of the course offerings options listed below. If too many students select one of the options, a lottery will be held to fill the class. Students who are not selected will have the opportunity to register for their second preference. This process will continue until all courses have been filled.



Spring COSM 115/COSM 117 day

Spring COSM 150/COSM 151 day

Fall COSM 115/COSM 117 day

Fall COSM 150/COSM 151 day



Recommended High School Preparation: English, math, art, basic anatomy and physiology, and basic chemistry.

Prospective students must have completed the 10th grade.



Program Costs: Approximately $3,700.00 is estimated for the beginning cosmetology semester and approximately $2,500.00 is estimated for the nail technology semester; for the textbook package, kit, and uniforms, shoes, personal supplies, and materials. SCC Cosmetology Department recommends the purchase of the hard cover or digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab”, the SCC Cosmetology or Nail Technology kit and uniforms by the first day of class. In addition, there will be costs each semester of the cosmetology program for: uniforms, program materials, and supplies, etc. The cosmetology and nail technology kits, textbook package, and some uniform items are available at the SCC College Store. Students who anticipate that these costs may create a financial burden should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance, as soon as possible. Students need to apply for financial aid at least one semester prior to the start of the program.



Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
COSM 100 Introduction to Cosmetology 2
COSM 115 Technical and Theoretical Principles - Lecture 5
COSM 117 Basic Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory 10
COSM 135 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Theory 7.5
COSM 137 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory 7.5
Total Units: 32

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 16 years of age and have completed the 10th grade.
  • Have completed the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Completed the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • apply technical knowledge and practical skills relating to the salon workplace.
  • utilize specialized learning and mastery connecting to the California State Board Exam.
  • analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying experience, knowledge, and skills in professionalism, salon business, and management.
  • measure salon readiness through acquired skills and evaluation.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to apply to the field of cosmetology.
  • incorporate and build on practical skills and the quality of their valuable work using the functional textbook study guide rubric self-assessment scale, available per chapter lesson.
  • complete all practical and operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Exam.
  • extend and build on their theological knowledge and the quality of the foundation relating to their practical work using the textbook study guide Rubik's self-assessment scale.
  • identify operational, technical sequential skills needed to be successful in the salon workplace and to pass the California State Board Written Exam.
  • define California State Board Rules and Regulations, sanitation, disinfection, client protection, health, and safety as it pertains to the salon workplace and the California State Board Written Exam.
  • complete all theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.
  • apply science related subjects to the technical and practical skills learned.

Career Information

Cosmetologists are employed all over of the world. Many are salon owners, managers and self- employed, while other may be employed by large or small establishments. A cosmetologist may specialize as a hairstylist, hair colorist, hair cutting specialist, texture specialist, platform artist, educator, legally sit for the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology as an expert witness and/or travel all over the world, representing industry product manufactures. It is an exciting and ever changing industry with many opportunities.