Cosmetology
& Barbering

Career Opportunities

Our programs prepare students for professional success while providing creative and artistic opportunities in the beauty industry. We take pride in watching our graduates enter the industry and flourish, whether it's managing a salon or spa, renting a booth, traveling the world doing hair and makeup for weddings and photo shoots, becoming a makeup artist for movies and TV, achieving influencer fame, crafting innovative nail art, or even becoming a cosmetology instructor inspiring tomorrow’s professionals.

Cosmetology is an exciting, vibrant industry with significant growth potential. Overall employment of barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 19% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average of 8% for all occupations, with a growth of 33% for manicurists and pedicurists and 29% for skin care specialists.

Job opportunities for licensed cosmetologists include working for chain and independent beauty salons and spas, hotels and resorts, beauty supply stores, retail and wholesale selling, research and development, salon management and ownership, teaching, and more. 

Some workers lease booth space from a salon owner. Some manage salons or open their own shop after several years of experience. Those who operate their own barbershop or salon have managerial duties that may include hiring, supervising, and firing workers, as well as keeping business and inventory records, ordering supplies, and arranging for advertising. Those who are self-employed usually determine their own schedules.

Cosmetology Careers

Barbers
Cut, trim, shampoo, and style hair. They also may fit hairpieces, perform facials, and offer facial shaving. Barbers are licensed to color, bleach, and highlight hair and to offer permanent-wave services. Common tools include combs, scissors, straight razors, and clippers. Physical stamina is important, because they are on their feet for most of their shift. 

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Provide beauty services, such as shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair as well as scalp and facial treatments. They may also apply makeup, dress wigs, perform hair removal, and provide nail and skin care services. They often advise clients on how to care for their hair at home. Tools include hairbrushes, scissors, blow dryers, and curling and flat irons. Physical stamina is important, because they are on their feet for most of their shift. 

Manicurists and Pedicurists
Clean, shape, and beautify customers' fingernails and toenails. May polish or decorate nails. Manicurists and pedicurists usually work in a nail salon, spa, or hair salon. The job involves a lot of sitting. Those who own a mobile grooming company travel to their clients’ locations.

Skincare Specialists
Provide skincare treatments to face and body to enhance an individual's appearance. Includes electrologists and laser hair removal specialists.

Learn more about cosmetology careers by visiting these additional resources.

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*Information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics