| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to the Cosmetology Program at Laney College ## Cosmetology Program
The Cosmetology program at Laney College provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the beauty industry. The program covers a wide range of topics, including hair cutting and styling, skincare, makeup application, and nail care. Students gain hands-on experience in a salon-like environment, preparing them for the state board licensing exam and future employment in the field. The program consists of 1000 hours of training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices, and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure. The estimated cost of books, supplies, and tuition is $2,100 for the first semester. There are additional costs for supplies and tuition during the subsequent semesters required to complete the program. Students must purchase cosmetology supplies and books as directed by instructors to participate in the program. The program is available as both an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree and a Certificate of Achievement. The A.S. degree includes 1000 hours of training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices in the field of cosmetology, and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure. The Certificate of Achievement consists of 1000 hours training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensing. The program utilizes instructional materials from Milady Textbooks (Cengage). After completing 1,000 clock hours, including all required practical operations and lecture hours, students are eligible to take the Cosmetology licensing exam. The exam consists of 100 questions and is administered on a computer. Candidates who successfully pass the written exam will receive their license immediately. Those who do not pass can reapply to take the exam again. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in cosmetology, preparing them for a variety of career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. The Town Salon at Laney College offers a range of services, including haircuts, styles, treatments, chemical services, as well as nail and facial services. The salon is open on Fridays from 10:00am to 1:00pm, with no chemical services available after 11:00am. Payment is cash only, and clients must be 16 years or older to receive services. Children under 16 are not allowed in the classrooms or clinic areas due to safety and liability concerns. The program has a number of notable alumni, including Jay Torre, Allie J, Blanca Marin, Collette Husher, Sohea Hyun, Megan Strait, Janny, Tammy Dash, Sora Oh, Michaela Fountila, Maria Saenz, Tye, Dionna Richarson, Lalita Bock, Porch Pbutta, Sarah Marchello, Consuelo T lopez, Alicia Vidovich, Yeybi Pablo, Hair By Lexi, Chelsea Huey, Porsche J, Marissa Vera, Carla Kerulis, Rika Hunter, Emily Chavez, Jessica Cowart, Scoots, Verdi, Lorelle Graffeo, Christopher Pham, and Kenny Minaj. The faculty includes Department Co-Chair, Cosmetology Sydney Thomas-Windham, Instructor, Cosmetology Toshia Christal, Instructor, Cosmetology La Tonya Carpenter, Instructor, Cosmetology Christina Edwards, Instructor, Cosmetology Petra Schontges, Instructor, Cosmetology Curley Wikkeling-Miller, Instructor, Cosmetology Emma Loyola Lopez, and Sr. Instructional Lab Tech, Cosmetology LaCretia Robinson.
Career Opportunities
A degree in cosmetology opens up a variety of career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. Some potential career paths include:
- Licensed Cosmetologist: Work in salons, spas, or wellness centers providing services like hair cutting, coloring, styling, makeup application, and skincare treatments.
- Specialize in a particular area, such as hair cutting or coloring.
- Work in a variety of settings, including salons, spas, and wellness centers.
- Hair Stylist or Color Specialist: Specialize in cutting, styling, and coloring hair, working in high-end salons, or even opening your own salon.
- Develop a loyal client base and build a reputation as a skilled stylist.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in hair cutting and coloring.
- Esthetician: Focus on skincare treatments, including facials, waxing, and other beauty treatments, often working in spas, dermatology clinics, or medical offices.
- Help clients achieve healthy, glowing skin through customized treatments.
- Stay current with the latest developments in skincare and esthetics.
- Nail Technician: Provide manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments in salons or specialized nail bars.
- Develop a keen eye for detail and a steady hand.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in nail care.
- Makeup Artist: Work in various settings such as salons, film and television, fashion shows, weddings, and special events.
- Develop a portfolio of your work and build a reputation as a skilled makeup artist.
- Stay current with the latest trends and techniques in makeup artistry.
- Salon or Spa Manager: Oversee the operations of a salon or spa, managing staff, customer relations, inventory, and finances.
- Develop strong leadership and management skills.
- Stay current with the latest developments in the beauty industry.
- Beauty Product Consultant or Sales Representative: Work for beauty brands, helping clients select products or training other professionals on the use of beauty products.
- Develop a deep knowledge of beauty products and their uses.
- Build strong relationships with clients and other professionals in the industry.
- Instructor or Educator: Teach cosmetology at beauty schools or colleges, sharing your expertise with future professionals.
- Develop a passion for teaching and mentoring.
- Stay current with the latest developments in the beauty industry.
- Freelance or Mobile Cosmetologist: Offer beauty services to clients in their homes or at events, allowing for a flexible work schedule.
- Develop a strong network of clients and contacts.
- Stay current with the latest trends and techniques in the beauty industry.
- Entrepreneur: Start your own beauty-related business, such as a salon, spa, beauty product line, or consulting firm.
- Develop a strong business plan and marketing strategy.
- Stay current with the latest developments in the beauty industry.
Program Details
The Cosmetology program at Laney College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in cosmetology, preparing them for a variety of career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. The program consists of 1000 hours of training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices, and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure. The program is available as both an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree and a Certificate of Achievement. The A.S. degree includes 1000 hours of training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices in the field of cosmetology, and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure. The Certificate of Achievement consists of 1000 hours training in theoretical foundations, manipulative skills, business knowledge, professional and ethical practices and prepares students to take the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensing. The program utilizes instructional materials from Milady Textbooks (Cengage). After completing 1,000 clock hours, including all required practical operations and lecture hours, students are eligible to take the Cosmetology licensing exam. The exam consists of 100 questions and is administered on a computer. Candidates who successfully pass the written exam will receive their license immediately. Those who do not pass can reapply to take the exam again. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in cosmetology, preparing them for a variety of career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. The Town Salon at Laney College offers a range of services, including haircuts, styles, treatments, chemical services, as well as nail and facial services. The salon is open on Fridays from 10:00am to 1:00pm, with no chemical services available after 11:00am. Payment is cash only, and clients must be 16 years or older to receive services. Children under 16 are not allowed in the classrooms or clinic areas due to safety and liability concerns. The program has a number of notable alumni, including Jay Torre, Allie J, Blanca Marin, Collette Husher, Sohea Hyun, Megan Strait, Janny, Tammy Dash, Sora Oh, Michaela Fountila, Maria Saenz, Tye, Dionna Richarson, Lalita Bock, Porch Pbutta, Sarah Marchello, Consuelo T lopez, Alicia Vidovich, Yeybi Pablo, Hair By Lexi, Chelsea Huey, Porsche J, Marissa Vera, Carla Kerulis, Rika Hunter, Emily Chavez, Jessica Cowart, Scoots, Verdi, Lorelle Graffeo, Christopher Pham, and Kenny Minaj. The faculty includes Department Co-Chair, Cosmetology Sydney Thomas-Windham, Instructor, Cosmetology Toshia Christal, Instructor, Cosmetology La Tonya Carpenter, Instructor, Cosmetology Christina Edwards, Instructor, Cosmetology Petra Schontges, Instructor, Cosmetology Curley Wikkeling-Miller, Instructor, Cosmetology Emma Loyola Lopez, and Sr. Instructional Lab Tech, Cosmetology LaCretia Robinson.
