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How to Become a Cosmetology Instructor

Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty services and many individuals are seeking to enter the field. Cosmetology instructors are trained beauty care professionals that provide instruction and demonstration to prepare students to become successful cosmetologists.

What does a cosmetology instructor do?

Cosmetology instructors teach aspiring cosmetologists in laboratory settings where students gain hands-on experience. They provide students with a solid educational background on all the aspects of hair and nail care services. They develop lesson plans and teach a variety of courses using many different teaching techniques. They instruct students on how to perform haircuts, hair treatments, hairstyles, manicures, pedicures, makeup applications, and other hair, nail, and beauty services. Doll heads and mannequins are often used to demonstrate how to perform proper techniques.

Cosmetology instructors also provide personal and educational advice to students regarding their career options. They provide students with many different resources to foster success in the cosmetology field.

What kind of training does a cosmetology instructor need?

Cosmetology instructors usually start their careers as licensed cosmetologists or beauticians and pursue additional training to become an educator. Cosmetology instructors must be experts in hairstyling, nail technology, and aesthetics. They usually complete teaching, business, and law courses. Some positions may require additional training. Cosmetology instructors must stay current on the latest cosmetology techniques and they often attend workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Most states require cosmetologists to be licensed and cosmetology instructors usually have to complete additional licensure. The licensing requirements vary by state, but typically include at least 2 years of work experience or 1,000 hours of education at an approved cosmetology institution. The Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology administers most license examinations. Cosmetology instructors must complete at least 8 hours of continuing education every year to maintain their license.

What are the prospects for a career as a cosmetology instructor?

Employment of all postsecondary teachers is projects to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 23% from 2006 to 2016 (1). An increased demand for cosmetology services and the increased amount of students interested in cosmetology programs will drive job growth.

Job prospects are expected to be excellent, especially for cosmetology instructions with advanced education and extensive experience. Job openings will also stem from the need to replace cosmetology instructors who retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.

How much do cosmetology instructors make?

As of October 2009, cosmetology instructors earned an average annual salary of $54,000; average annual salaries vary greatly by location, experience, employer, and benefits (2).

A career as cosmetology instructor is a great choice for individuals who wish to prepare students to become cosmetologists. Cosmetology instructors must have extensive cosmetology experience to effectively teach students. They must have an excellent understanding of fashion, trends, art, hair care, and nail care. They must have great communication and interpersonal skills and be able to effectively work as part of a team.

Now what? The next step is easy!

Take the first step today and request free information from our selected top online teaching and education schools, or simply use the form below to find the program that is right for you!

(1) SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition
(2) SOURCE: Indeed.com

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