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Laney College's Cosmetology program consists of 1600 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.
Department Overview
Laney College's Cosmetology Program 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.
Important Information for Prospective Students: Students must purchase cosmetology supplies and books as directed by instructors to participate in the program. 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.
Career Opportunities
A degree in cosmetology opens up a variety of career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. Here are some potential career paths:
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Licensed Cosmetologist: Work in salons, spas, or wellness centers providing services like hair cutting, coloring, styling, makeup application, and skincare treatments.
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Hair Stylist or Color Specialist: Specialize in cutting, styling, and coloring hair, working in high-end salons, or even opening your own salon.
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Esthetician: Focus on skincare treatments, including facials, waxing, and other beauty treatments, often working in spas, dermatology clinics, or medical offices.
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Nail Technician: Provide manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments in salons or specialized nail bars.
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Makeup Artist: Work in various settings such as salons, film and television, fashion shows, weddings, and special events.
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Salon or Spa Manager: Oversee the operations of a salon or spa, managing staff, customer relations, inventory, and finances.
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Beauty Product Consultant or Sales Representative: Work for beauty brands, helping clients select products or training other professionals on the use of beauty products.
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Instructor or Educator: Teach cosmetology at beauty schools or colleges, sharing your expertise with future professionals.
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Freelance or Mobile Cosmetologist: Offer beauty services to clients in their homes or at events, allowing for a flexible work schedule.
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Entrepreneur: Start your own beauty-related business, such as a salon, spa, beauty product line, or consulting firm.
These career paths offer opportunities for creativity, flexibility, and the potential for business ownership.
Cosmetology Licensing Exam Information
Instructional Materials: Milady Textbooks (Cengage).
After completing 1,600 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. Students can choose from various testing sites across California, with locations available at www.barbercosmo.ca.gov.
For detailed information about the licensing exam, refer to the Candidate Information Bulletin for cosmetology at www.barbercosmo.ca.gov.
Candidates who successfully pass the written exam will receive their license immediately. Those who do not pass can reapply to take the exam again.
Student Resources
Beauty Changes Lives Scholarship
Laney College Adopted Texts: Milady (Cengage)
2019 Health & Safety Course TEXTBOOK
2019 Health and Safety Student Exam Booklet
2023 CA Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Act and Regulations
2023 CA Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Publications Order Form
2018 CA BarberCosmo: Understanding Workers’ Rights and Responsibilities
PSI Candidate Information Bulletin – California (7/2022) (English)
PSI Candidate Information Bulletin – California (2022) (Korean)
PSI Candidate Information Bulletin – California (2022) (Spanish)
PSI Candidate Information Bulletin – California (2022) (Vietnamese)
Contact Us
Department Chair Co-Chairs
Sydney Thomas
Email: sthomas@peralta.edu
Toshia Christal
Email: tchristal@peralta.edu
Main Phone: (510) 464-3285
Dean
Alejandria Tomas
Email: atomas@peralta.edu
Learning & Career Pathway
Building & Skilled Trades
Division
Career & Technical Education
Location
Building B, Room 100
(B-100 | 10th St entrance)
Click the map image to enlarge, or view in Google My Maps
Degree
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This Degree includes 1600 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.
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The Town Salon
The Town Salon at Laney College offers a range of services including haircuts, styles, treatments, chemical services, as well as nail and facial services.
Location: Building B-100
Hours: Fridays from 10:00am – 12:00 pm & 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Payment is cash only and no children unless being serviced.
Cosmetology Program Graduation
Licensed Cosmetologists & Program Alumni
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Unlock Financial Aid for College Expenses
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Laney College's AA-T and AS-T degrees guarantee junior standing admission to the CSU system, with priority for local CSU campuses in similar programs. Consult a counselor or transfer specialist for details.
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Counselors can help you create a Student Educational Plan (SEP) to outline the courses needed for an Associate’s degree, transfer, or certificate, even if you're unsure of your educational goals.
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We provide support with career exploration, self-assessment as well as the major and career decision making process to help all Laney students achieve career satisfaction and success.