Cosmetology

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Master current trends like lashing and gel nails alongside core skills in hair cutting, coloring, and esthetics under the guidance of instructors with 20+ years of industry experience. You will learn through a mix of online and in-person instruction, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve in the fast-growing beauty industry.

Turn your passion for the visual arts into a career with the hands-on training and diverse techniques taught in this comprehensive program.

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About the Program

Program Overview
The Cosmetology program at Garden City Community College provides a comprehensive, hands-on education designed to prepare students for success in the beauty industry. Students build both technical skills and creative expertise needed for a professional cosmetology career.

Professional Training and Industry Experience
Led by instructors with more than 20 years of industry experience, the program covers core techniques such as hair cutting, coloring, and esthetics, while also introducing in-demand services like lash applications and gel nails.

Blended Learning Experience
Coursework combines online learning with in-person instruction, helping students develop both technical knowledge and real-world salon skills while staying current with industry trends.

Program Expectations and Structure
This is a 1,500 clock-hour program with a selective admissions process limited to 25 students. Students are required to maintain full attendance and earn a minimum score of 75% on all exams to demonstrate proficiency.

Career-Ready Skills
Students gain hands-on training in a wide range of cosmetology techniques, preparing them to turn their passion for beauty and the visual arts into a professional career in a fast-growing industry.

Credentials

Industry Credibility & Personal Growth - A degree shows commitment to excellence, professionalism, and lifelong learning - qualities that clients and employers both values. It helps cosmetologists become not just skilled artists but also educated business professionals who understand the industry from multiple perspectives. On a personal level, pursuing a degree builds confidence and provides a deeper sense of accomplishment.

Staying Competitive in a Growing Industry - The beauty industry is expanding rapidly and becoming more sophisticated. Employers and clients increasingly look for professionals who not only have technical skills but also understand branding, digital marketing, customer experience, and business strategy.

Having both a license and a degree gives students a major competitive edge.

Explore the full curriculum and courses using the link(s) below!

Certificate in Cosmetology - 46 credit hours

COSM.CERTC - A cosmetology license is legally required in most states to perform professional beauty services, and it serves as proof of completed education and training — opening doors to employment in salons, spas, and resorts while allowing licensed professionals to charge more for their work. Beyond career and financial benefits, licensure ensures client safety through proper sanitation and technique training, and enables cosmetologists to pursue a creative, personally fulfilling career on a professional level.

Associate in Applied Science in Cosmetology - 65 credit hours

COSM.AAS - A degree can help licensed cosmetologists advance into leadership roles like salon management, ownership, corporate training, or education, while also increasing earning potential through business, marketing, or entrepreneurship skills that enable multiple income streams.

Transfer Information

Licensing reciprocity allows cosmetologists to work in other states according to specific requirements.

Highlights

Cosmetology students receive ample opportunity to work with and connect with the community and other students alike. We lend our skills to the GCCC theater department and events like BusterCon.

Our department also enjoys hosting field trips as well as offering services for local community organizations. Students will have the ability to attend out of town hair shows, meet with local professionals sharing their knowledge, and take mastery courses in hair extensions and lashing.

Scholarships will be available through the Mia Horn Memorial Fund.

Other Information

Diversified Career Paths

A degree can open doors to careers beyond the salon chair, such as:

Product development for cosmetic or haircare brands
Sales and marketing roles in beauty or wellness companies
Public relations or social media management for beauty influencers or brands
Spa or resort management
Beauty writing, blogging, or content creation

This flexibility means they can grow with the industry and pivot as their interests evolve.

Career Outlook

Salary information is provided for general informational purposes only and represents estimates, not guarantees. Actual earnings may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and employer. Some careers may require education, certifications, or training beyond programs offered at Garden City Community College.

Program Faculty

Meredith Owings

Assistant Professor of Cosmetology View Profile