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Can you earn a cosmetology degree online?

Author

Sarah Oconnell

Published Feb 17, 2026

Can you earn a cosmetology degree online?

There are no 100% online cosmetology programs due to the hands-on nature of the work. But the good news is that many schools are beginning to offer online coursework on the science and theory behind cosmetology, creating hybrid programming that may best fit your schedule.

Considering this, what kind of degree do you need for Cosmetology?

Licensing requirements vary by state, but aspiring cosmetologists need the following: a high school diploma or GED, a cosmetology training certificate or associate degree in cosmetology and supervised hands-on experience to be eligible to take their state's cosmetology licensing exam.

Also, how long does it take to become a cosmetology? Unlike traditional colleges, which will often take you four years to complete a bachelor's degree, you can find a cosmetology school that allows you to complete your training in as little as eight months or up to two years depending on if you decide to pursue your education full or part-time.

Keeping this in view, can you become a cosmetologist without going to school?

You can't begin a career as a cosmetologist without first learning how to provide a variety of beauty techniques to clients. Attending an accredited beauty school is an exciting stage in your journey where you can start forming connections with instructors and other students.

What is the highest paying cosmetology job?

Highest Paying Career Options in Cosmetology

Job TitleMedian SalaryJob Growth (2018-2028)*
Skincare Specialist$31,290 (2018)*11%
Beauty Copywriter$51,221 (copywriters, 2020)**0% (all writers and authors)
Corporate Trainer$55,479 (2020)**9% (training and development specialists)
Public Relations Specialist$60,000 (2018)*6%

Is cosmetology a good career to go into?

The Potential

As a licensed cosmetologist, you could have many career opportunities available to you. In fact, you could have many careers in your lifetime! Cosmetologists usually have the freedom to work in whichever industry they love. They can work in services, film, TV, freelance, editorial, and more!

Is cosmetology a good career choice?

Self-employment has many benefits including working on your own schedule, travelling to and from clients and even working from home! This industry has a higher rate of self-employment than any other profession ranging from 35% of Hairdressers, Hairstylists and Cosmetologists to 54% of Barbers.

Why do cosmetologist wear black?

Many hairstylists opt for black clothing because they're often handling chemicals such as hair color that will easily stain clothing. When the products are spilled on black clothing, they're much less visible, giving hairstylists a more clean and professional look even if a mishap were to occur.

Is cosmetology school difficult?

Cosmetology School Is Not as Easy as You Think

A lot of people think beauty school is a walk in the park…it's not that simple. Beauty school is a lot of hard work. Students have to study their text books, they take quizzes and tests, and they practice hair styles over and over again.

Do you need math for Cosmetology?

Some people may be drawn to cosmetology because it seems to be purely an artistic job, but they might be surprised to learn that cosmetology requires quite a bit of math, too. This process often involves the use of mathematics, such as using geometry to determine how color and light interact with skin tones.

What is the highest degree in cosmetology?

Associate's Degree

How much money do cosmetologists make a year?

Cosmetologists earn an average yearly wage of $29,590 or $14.23 per hour, not including tips, which can add another 15 to 20 percent to base salary. The lowest-paid 10 percent of stylists earn $17,930 per year, and the highest-paid 10 percent make over $49,050.

How do I get started in cosmetology?

Here are the five steps to becoming a cosmetologist:
  1. Be at least 16 years of age and have a high school diploma or a GED.
  2. Enroll in a state-licensed cosmetology school.
  3. Complete your courses. Most programs take 9-15 months to complete.
  4. Complete training hours.
  5. Pass the state licensing exam.

What state has the highest cosmetology hours?

Massachusetts

Can you wash hair in a salon without a license?

No, a cosmetology license is not required to perform hair shampooing. A cosmetology license is required to rinse or do any work involving other chemicals in the hair, or drying or styling of the hair.

How much do professional hair stylists make?

National Average
Salary Range (Percentile)
25th75th
Annual Salary$21,000$32,000
Monthly Salary$1,750$2,667
Weekly Salary$404$615

How do I become a cosmetologist after 12?

They can pursue short-term diploma & certificate courses from any cosmetology school to get licensed. You can pursue these courses after 10th or after 12th.

Diploma Courses (6 month to 1 year):

  1. Diploma in Fashion Media Make up.
  2. Diploma in Cosmetology.
  3. Diploma in Hair Dressing.
  4. Diploma in Makeup.

What is the difference between cosmetologist and dermatologist?

'Cosmetology' is referred as 'the study of skin, hair and nails. Dermatology is part of medicine which deals with the formation and physiological operations of skin and skin related issues. A dermatologist helps to find the causes and cure of different skin diseases, with have both medical and surgical facet.

How do I become a successful cosmetologist?

3 Big Ways to Succeed in the Cosmetology Industry
  1. Take Educational Classes. Your education doesn't stop when you graduate from beauty school.
  2. Build Your Network. Get to know other people who work as cosmetologists.
  3. Take Every Opportunity that Comes Your Way. It's important, especially when you're starting, that if an opportunity arises for you, you snap it up!

How long are cosmetology hours good for?

5 years

How do I prepare for cosmetology school?

How to Prepare for Cosmetology School
  1. #1: Take Cosmetology Courses in High School.
  2. #2: Get a Job in a Salon or Barbershop.
  3. #3: Read About the Industry.
  4. #4: Shadow Someone With a Cosmetology Degree.
  5. #5: Find the Right Program for You.

Why do cosmetologists need a license?

The reason why you need a license is that you're doing this service for money, so customers need to be confident that you know what you are doing when you touch their hands. To become a manicurist you must be at least sixteen, completed high school, and finished a manicuring course from a registered cosmetology school.

Can you make a living off cosmetology?

The median hourly wage for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists was $12.54 as of May 2019. The top 10 percent of earners made more than $24.94 per hour while the lowest 10 percent made less than $8.86. Cosmetologists earned median hourly pay of $12.54 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How much do hairstylist make an hour?

According to the latest figures, the highest hourly average (median) wages are earned in Alberta at $20.00 per hour and the lowest average (median) wages are earned in Prince Edward Island at $12.25 per hour. A typical full-time annual salary for this occupation is in the region of $23,000 – $43,000.

What do you learn at cosmetology school?

A cosmetology program will teach you the basics in several areas, from hair treatments to skin care to nail techniques. You can expect to learn about: Cutting and styling hair. Coloring, bleaching and highlighting hair.

How long is Paul Mitchell hair school?

The education at Paul Mitchell varies greatly from that of TONI&GUY. At Paul Mitchell, you go through six or ten weeks (depending on if you are full or part-time) "Core" where you learn the basics. Core is broken down into style week, color week, texture week, cutting week, spa week, and review week.

How long does it take to become a licensed nail tech?

Most nail technician programs take an average of 300 to 600 hours to complete. Program start times and lengths vary, but you can typically complete a nail tech program between three to nine months depending on your ability to attend school part- or full-time.

How do you become a MUA?

How To Become A Makeup Artist: Advice from Top Professionals
  1. Practice. Practice.
  2. Research the makeup masters who've come before you.
  3. Get a Formal Education.
  4. Get online and market yourself.
  5. No matter what, don't overdo it on the fangirling.
  6. Take any job you can and bring your best attitude.
  7. Love your job.
  8. Wear flats.

How much is beauty school in NYC?

It's surprising, then, that New York's cosmetology schools are some of the fastest and most affordable in the region, with an average tuition of only $13,354 and term lengths all under ten months.

How long is cosmetology school in Michigan?

1,500 hours

How do I become a cosmetologist UK?

What qualifications do I need to be able to work as a beauty therapist?
  1. Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy (you'll have the choice to study from make up, nails and spa treatment)
  2. Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy.
  3. Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Treatments.

What is the laziest job in the world?

If You Think You're Lazy Then These 15 Jobs Are Perfect For You
  1. Professional foreigner. If you can suit up well and shake hands firmly, then you could get employed in China.
  2. Professional cuddler.
  3. Hotel sleep tester.
  4. Beer taster.
  5. Video game tester.
  6. Sleep study participant.
  7. Movie extra.
  8. Dog walker.

What makes the most money in beauty?

11 Best High-Paying Jobs in The Beauty Industry
  • Private Cosmetic Dentist.
  • Beautician or Cosmetologist.
  • Modeling.
  • Esthetician.
  • Image Consultant/ Stylist.
  • Tattoo Artist. Tattoo Artist Salary range: $35,109 -$64,803.
  • Beauty Therapist. Beauty Therapist Salary range: $17,500-$105,500.
  • Makeup Artist. Makeup Artist Salary range: $16,500-$99,000.

How much does Paul Mitchell beauty school cost?

Paying for Paul Mitchell the School-Esani

For academic year 2019-2020, the tuition & fees for Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, which is the largest program at Paul Mitchell the School-Esani, is $16,950. The Living costs besides the tuition & fees are reported as $32,597 when a student lives off campus.

Do estheticians make good money?

The income ranges from around $18,000 per year for a starting salary to $60,000 per year for top 10%. Few factors affect the pay rate for an Esthetician such as location, specialization, and a type of employer. For example, the top paying employers are medical locations such as medical spas and hospitals.

What jobs can you get after cosmetology school?

A cosmetology career can lead to the following professions:
  • Hairstylist.
  • Nail technician.
  • Salon or spa manager.
  • Beautician.
  • Wedding and Event Stylist.
  • Makeup artist.
  • Esthetician.
Top 10 Careers for Cosmetology Grads
  • #1: Hairstylist. This is definitely one of the most common careers that a newly-licensed cosmetologist will go after.
  • #2: Barber.
  • #3: Nail Technician.
  • #4: Makeup Artist.
  • #5: Fashion Show Stylist.
  • #6: Barbershop or Salon Owner.
  • #7: Beauty Writer.
  • #8: Esthetician.

How can I make the most money as a cosmetologist?

The Best Methods for Making Money While Going Through Cosmetology School
  1. Do Freelance Work for Friends.
  2. Build a Social Media Portfolio.
  3. Consider Extracurriculars at Your School.
  4. Ask Your School About Working at the Student Salon.
  5. Make Sure You've Looked Into All Financial Aid Opportunities.

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