Associate in Arts - Cosmetology

The College of San Mateo's Cosmetology program embraces a student-centered approach to collaborative team teaching and delivers current and comprehensive curricula via modern technologies, individual training, group projects, and supervised practice on the public, linking theoretical knowledge to hands-on (practical) experiences. An exceptional faculty and staff deliver instruction on hair styling and cutting, chemical applications (hair color, curling, and straightening), nail, facial, and makeup services, cosmetology specialty classes, and portfolio preparation to include resume preparation and job placement support.

Licensees may pursue a myriad of career opportunities including independent salon stylists, estheticians, nail technicians, salon and spa owners/managers, product inventors/educators, movie/television/runway/platform and print work artists, beauty bloggers, writers, and school educators.

Upon successful completion of this degree, students will be able to: • Articulate and demonstrate theoretical and practical (hands-on) discipline competency that will support initial licensing and entry-level job placement. • Pass program benchmarks and earn the credentials required to sit for National-Interstate Council (NIC) California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensing exam. • Pass the National-Interstate Council (NIC) California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensing exam.