STEP 1: Meet the basic age and educational requirements
In order to obtain a Cosmetologist license and practice in the state of California, students must be 17 years of age or older to take the exam, have completed the 10th grade or its equivalent, successfully complete the required course of study, and pass the state exam. Visit the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology for additional information.
STEP 2: Apply for admission to Butte College
Complete all the Steps to Apply at Butte College, including online orientation, have all your holds cleared, and be ready to enroll when it's your scheduled time.
STEP 3: Enroll in Courses
Registration for all courses is first-come, first-served at your scheduled registration time. If the courses you want are full, we recommend you take General Education courses that will meet Associate Degree requirements. This will allow you to make progress toward the Associate Degree and provide you with continuing student status so you will receive an earlier registration appointment when a new class opens next time.
Cosmetology courses
- Four courses in Semester 1 and four courses in Semester 2. View the required courses.
- To start as a new student, you must register for all four courses in Semester 1.
- Semester 1 schedule: Mon - Thu approximately 8am - 4:30pm
Semester 2 schedule: Mon - Thu approximately 8am - 4:30pm, Fri 9am - 1:30pm
Semester 1 courses are offered Fall 2024, beginning August 26
Barber Crossover course
COS-17 Trimming & Shaving I prepares licensed cosmetologists and students who have completed a California-approved cosmetology program for licensing as a barber.
1. A valid California Cosmetology License, a California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Proof of Training document, or a transcript verifying completion of Hair Styling level 1 course must be submitted for approval prior to enrollment. Only original, physical documents are accepted. Contact us at cosmo@vbj4.com for instructions.
2. If you are a licensed cosmetologist who did not attend our school on Pillsbury Road in Chico or complete our current program, you must also complete and submit the Petition to Challenge Prerequisites to get registration approval prior to your registration date. Send the form by email to assessment@vbj4.com.
What is the registration schedule? How do I see my registration time?
How do I register for classes? Why can't I register for classes?
Lots more about Self Service, registration, payments, and more
Be aware that once you are enrolled, we will only use your Butte College email address for all correspondence.
Course enrollment fees are $46 per unit for California residents, plus Service Fees each session.
View complete fee information at 45d6.vbj4.com/services/admissions/fees.
There is a student kit fee for each lab class in the Cosmetology programs. The kit fee is added to your student account when you register and can be paid online along with your course fees. Once the kit has been opened it will be considered used and no refund will be made if you choose to drop the course.
| 2024-2025 Kit Fee Amounts | |
| COS-11 Health, Safety & Sanitation Practicum | $25.80 |
| COS-12 Manicuring & Pedicuring | $126.80 |
| COS-19 Hair Styling Services I | $1359.07 |
| COS-21 Chemical Hair Services Practicum | $158.89 |
| COS-23 Skin Care | $97.77 |
| COS-29 Hair Styling Services II | $122.25 |
| Total kit fee for Cosmetology program | $1890.58 |
| COS-17 Trimming & Shaving I | $335.17 |
| COS-27 Trimming & Shaving II | $125.43 |
| COS-32 Advanced Manicuring & Pedicuring | $237.70 |
You will be notified of the required textbooks upon enrollment to the program. The cost will be approximately $519.
Students are responsible for purchasing and wearing the required uniform by the second day of class. Information and requirements will be provided upon enrollment. Be sure to apply for financial aid at least eight weeks before the semester starts if costs need to be covered by financial aid.
The Board of Cosmetology Application for Examination and Initial License Fee is $125.
There are many financial aid resources available to help you fund your academic program. Complete details are available at 45d6.vbj4.com/financialaid.
Read the Financial Aid website for complete details about how the process works. Once your course fees and kit charges are on your student account, all financial aid disbursed will first be applied to the balance you owe before you receive any remaining funds. If your financial aid is disbursed in two payments for the semester and you have a balance on your account, you might not receive funds until the second disbursement, so planning ahead is important.
The Alliance for Workforce Development provides financial assistance in their mission to help students access education and training, explore career opportunities, and get jobs. They may provide funds to eligible students for fees, books, uniforms, and more.
Chico office phone: 530-961-5125
Oroville office phone: 530-538-7301
Ready to schedule your next beauty appointment? Call us today and let our talented students take care of all your beauty needs. View our Salon Services Menu.
Please call 530-895-2202 to schedule an appointment.
Monday through Thursday 8:30am - 3:00pm
Friday 9:00am-12:00pm
2201 Pillsbury Road, Suite 170
Chico, CA 95926
Phone: 530-895-2202
Email: cosmo@vbj4.com
Content editor:
Eileen Ross
