Cosmetology

Express your passion for style with a career in cosmetology. Combine theory with practice to learn all aspects of this innovative industry including fundamentals of cutting, styling and chemical restructuring of hair, as well as skin and nail care. In addition, you’ll receive instruction on salon management and business strategies to create exceptional guest-service experiences. Successful completion of the program will prepare you for a cosmetologist license application.

COURSE LIST

Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

Occupational Specific (38 Credits)

Course Title
Course Number
Credits
Instructional Hours
Outside Effort Hours**
Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
• Salon Theory and Ecology

  31-502-301

  2Credit

  72

  36

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 72
  • Outside Effort Hours: 36
  • Course Number: 31502301
  • Credits: 2.00

  Learn theoretical concepts in microbiology and decontamination, general chemistry, micro-hair structure and anatomy as related to the profession. Sanitation and infection control practices will be taught to keep the salon clean and customers safe utilizing the Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Codes relating to safety and sanitation in the salon.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan OR Nail Technician certificate
• Basic Cut and Style

  31-502-302

  4Credit

  144

  72

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 144
  • Outside Effort Hours: 72
  • Course Number: 31502302
  • Credits: 4.00

  Utilize cutting techniques to develop a plan to achieve a desired haircut/style. Develop skills in wet and dry hairstyling to include using finger waves, pin curls, roller sets, curling and flattening the hair in conjunction to the cuts performed.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan
• Basic Texture and Color

  31-502-303

  5Credit

  180

  90

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 180
  • Outside Effort Hours: 90
  • Course Number: 31502303
  • Credits: 5.00

  Focuses on the chemicals used and the effects they have in restructuring the hair during permanent wave, chemical relaxing and hair color services. Practice the steps involved in a chemical service including safety procedures. Study the color wheel and the "Law of Color". Identify the differences between different chemicals.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan
• Advanced Cut and Style

  31-502-305

  4Credit

  144

  72

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 144
  • Outside Effort Hours: 72
  • Course Number: 31502305
  • Credits: 4.00

  Perform men's haircuts including grooming techniques. Safety and infection control will be practiced throughout the course. Study the composition and construction of a variety of wigs and hairpieces including hair replacement. Full-service haircuts and styles will be performed; including trends in haircutting and styling.

  Coreq: Basic Cut and Style 31502302
• Cosmetology Sales & Marketing

  31-502-378

  1Credit

  36

  18

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 36
  • Outside Effort Hours: 18
  • Course Number: 31502378
  • Credits: 1.00

  Review product lines to best prescribe beneficial products to meet the needs of each client. Practice successful sales techniques. Aspects of designing effective retail displays will be part of this course.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan
• Salon Client Services 1 - Introductory

  31-502-304

  3Credit

  162

  0

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 162
  • Outside Effort Hours: 0
  • Course Number: 31502304
  • Credits: 3.00

  Practice consultation and analysis skills in a salon atmosphere. Study how personality, teamwork and ethics contribute to both personal and professional success within the salon business. Provide services under the supervision of an instructor. Competencies will include nail services, cutting, styling, scalp treatments, hair coloring and chemical texturizing.

  Prereq: Basic Texture and Color 31502303
• Advanced Texture and Color

  31-502-306

  4Credit

  144

  72

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 144
  • Outside Effort Hours: 72
  • Course Number: 31502306
  • Credits: 4.00

  Incorporate consultation and analytical skills to choose the best product and techniques to meet the needs of a client. Advanced texture and color techniques will be assessed. Observe and research trends and techniques in chemical service within a salon setting.

  Prereq: Basic Texture and Color 31502303
• Facials and Skin Care

  31-502-307

  2Credit

  72

  36

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 72
  • Outside Effort Hours: 36
  • Course Number: 31502307
  • Credits: 2.00

  Study the function, composition and structure of all types of skin. Basic competency will be met for hair removal services; facial service to include performance of a massage and makeup application following all safety and infection control guidelines. Study of advanced skin care.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan
• Salon Business and Professional Development

  31-502-308

  1Credit

  36

  18

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 36
  • Outside Effort Hours: 18
  • Course Number: 31502308
  • Credits: 1.00

  Develop a personal plan for success in the industry including a portfolio including a resume, cover letter, and other pictures to use when seeking employment. Computer work, marketing and professional observation will be included.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan
• Salon Client Services 2 - Intermediate

  31-502-309

  3Credit

  162

  0

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 162
  • Outside Effort Hours: 0
  • Course Number: 31502309
  • Credits: 3.00

  Provide services to salon guests under the direct supervision of an instructor. A full menu of services will be provided.

  Coreq: Salon Client Services 1-Introductory 31502304
• Nails

  31-502-374

  2Credit

  72

  36

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 72
  • Outside Effort Hours: 36
  • Course Number: 31502374
  • Credits: 2.00

  Study the structure, growth, diseases, disorders and conditions of the nail. Practice infection control procedures to protect the client and practitioner. Study the anatomy of the hand, arm, foot and leg to effectively apply massage techniques relating to nail services. Perform manicure and pedicure services to include polish application and massage techniques.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan OR Nail Technician certificate
• Salon Client Services 3 - Advanced

  31-502-310

  3Credit

  216

  0

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 216
  • Outside Effort Hours: 0
  • Course Number: 31502310
  • Credits: 3.00

  Integrate the theory, practice and reflection of coursework by providing services to guests. Services will be offered based on the meeting the minimum competency requirements.

  Coreq: Salon Client Services 2-Intermediate 31502309
• Cosmetology State Board Prep and Assessment

  31-502-311

  2Credit

  72

  36

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 72
  • Outside Effort Hours: 36
  • Course Number: 31502311
  • Credits: 2.00

  Review all state board required procedures and exam guidelines. Practical and written assessment of all state board subjects. Prepare and submit materials for state board exams.

  Coreq: Salon Client Services 3-Advanced 31502310
• Salon Management Skills

  31-502-330

  2Credit

  72

  36

  N/A

  • Instructional Hours: 72
  • Outside Effort Hours: 36
  • Course Number: 31502330
  • Credits: 2.00

  Introduces the fundamental skills required for lawful and effective salon practice and management, including Wisconsin state laws and regulatory rules.

  Prereq: Active in Cosmetology plan OR Esthetician Basic plan OR Nail Technician certificate