Beauty School - What Is It Really Like?

If you are artistic and looking for a non-traditional college program, you may want to consider beauty school. Upon graduation, you can be working in a top salon in an exciting and challenging position. You may have many questions about the specifics of beauty school - what is it really like?

As with all college programs, it is important that the school is accredited. For beauty schools, make sure that the program is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). There are currently over 1,000 schools accredited by the NACCAS.

You will not have to take an entry exam like the SAT in order to be accepted into a beauty school program. However, you must be able to meet the licensing requirements for your state. This often includes that you be at least 18 years of age and hold a high school diploma or GED.

Many cosmetology schools operate on a semester like system similar to a university. Therefore, you may have to wait until an open enrollment period in order to apply. However, other schools will start a class once it is filled. In this instance, you may only have to wait a period of weeks prior to starting. Typically, you will stay with your classmates throughout the entire program.

Coursework consists of classroom lecture and clinical work done in an actual salon setting. The curriculum will coincide with the program you are attending, for example hair, skin, or nails. You may also take classes dealing with business, fashion, and communications.

The clinical work will generally be done in a salon that is run by the school. Students will work on mannequin heads to begin. Once they are somewhat advanced, they will permitted to work on clients who come to the school for services offered at discounted rates. Some programs will also require that you perform an internship at a local salon. This can last from six to eight weeks.

Once you have complete the program satisfactorily, you will be required to pass your state's licensing exam. The exam will test you on the basics of your profession. The more advanced skills you will learn from training in your salon or from an advance cosmetology school program.

Cosmetology is an exciting and rewarding career field. Since it is constantly changing, it is important to note that your schooling is not over after you graduate. You will constantly be learning new techniques and procedures.