Personal Care Services
Cosmetology & Hair
Program Summary
Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatment including hairstyling, skin care, cosmetics, manicures/pedicures, and electrology – and it utilizes your creative skills and talents like no other profession can!
Hair stylists and designers provide hair care services to enhance the appearance of their clients. From classical cuts to hairstyles on the cutting edge, cosmetologists provide a wide range of cutting and styling techniques that have wide client appeal – and can set fashion trends. Cosmetology is a competitive field, but those who are talented quickly rise to the top and can go almost anywhere. Hair designers at the upper echelon are great technicians who are extremely artistic and often have dramatic end results. Their work is featured in magazines, on runways, and at red carpet events.
Cosmetologists also advise clients on how to care for their hair, skin, and nails and how to maintain an updated look. For example, hair stylists may suggest how to straighten or perm hair to enhance its texture and appearance and how best to change hair color.
Most cosmetologists are paid in any of four ways:
- Commission, where a percentage of the money made from the provision of services is given back to the cosmetologist.
- Booth rental, in which the client pays the cosmetologist who, then, "rents" a space in the salon for a monthly fee.
- Hourly wage, an approach often used by small chains as it helps to ensure that company standards and policies are followed.
- Tips from customers, by which skilled cosmetologists can often make a considerable portion of their income.
Employment Trends
- All states require cosmetologists and most other personal appearance workers (with the exception of shampooers) to be licensed, although qualifications vary by state. Applicants for a license usually are required to pass a written test and demonstrate an ability to perform basic cosmetology services.
- Job opportunities in well populated and urban areas are good, but competition is keen for jobs at higher paying salons. Opportunities are best for those licensed to provide a broad range of services.
- Almost half of all cosmetologists are self-employed which gives them the advantage of setting their own work schedules.
Program Objectives
Successful completion of each course in two programs earns a Certificate of Completion:
- The Art of Braiding
For personal or professional use, this hands-on class covers sanitation, scalp care, and professional procedures for braiding introductory basic and African American braiding styles. This program is offered in five 3 hour segments.
- Certification Preparation
PGCC offers a 36 hour preparatory course,
OCC394. Preparation for Maryland State Cosmetology Licensure Exam, advised prior to taking the certification licensure examination. A list of vocational schools for the full 1,500 hour cosmetology training can be found at Beauty Schools Directory
Please check the
Schedule of Courses for courses currently offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What textbook will I need?
The textbook for OCC394, Preparation for Maryland State Cosmetology Licensure Exam, is Miladys Standard Textbook of Cosmetology, used by many Maryland cosmetology schools. While this book is not available at the College Bookstore, it can be ordered through many online book retailers.
- What are the requirements for state licensure?
The State Board of Cosmetologists licenses and regulates individuals who practice the trade of cosmetology in the State of Maryland and establishes health and safety standards for the operation of beauty salons and trade schools:
- Cosmetologist: Must be at least 17 years of age and have completed 9th grade or GED. Applicant must submit proof of completion of 1500 hours of training in a cosmetology school or 24 months as a registered apprentice in a licensed beauty salon.
- Apprentice Cosmetologist: Must complete an application and sponsorship form which must be signed by a senior cosmetologist.Must complete 24 months of training with at least 20 hours per week. (Limited to 1 one-year original license & 2 one-year renewals)
- For additional information on state licensure, contact:
On licensing requirements to: State Board of Cosmetologists
500 N. Calvert Street, Room 201; Baltimore, Maryland 21202-3651
telephone 410-230-6320
- On scheduling test dates to: Experior Assessments
telephone 800-805-9124
Where can I get additional information on the program at PGCC?
For
The Art of Hair Braiding, please contact:
Karen Kallish, PGCC Program Coordinator
301-322-0873, kkallish@pgcc.edu
For
Cosmetology Licensure Preparation, please contact:
Michelle Hanks, Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
301-772-2246,
admissions@harmonsbeautyschool.com