Academic Catalogs

Cosmetology, Associate in Arts Degree

Banner Code: 2_AA_COSM

Control Number: 03947

Financial Aid Eligible


The general Cosmetology program consists of a minimum of 1000 hours of training to provide entry-level skills to students who desire a career in the cosmetology profession. Students will develop expertise in the science and techniques of hair, skin makeup and lab experience in cosmetology. Upon completion, the student is eligible to take the California State Board examination to become a Licensed Cosmetologist. Students in this program must maintain a minimum grade of C (2.0 GPA) in all courses in order to advance to the next level in the program. The program is offered as a full-time, day-only program. Students attend classes Monday through Friday. Student attendance is mandatory. English-speaking and comprehension skills are critical to success as well as safety in this program. Students with inadequate English proficiency may be dropped from the program until adequate proficiency is achieved. The Cosmetology Department has established standards of conduct and personal grooming. Additionally, there are attendance policies that must be adhered to by all students enrolling in the program. For further information regarding requirements, contact the Cosmetology Office. State law requires that students be at least seventeen years of age and have a valid social security number or an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) when applying for the California State Board examination.

Material Costs
The Cosmetology Department Office will provide information about the required uniform, shoes and material fee which covers the cost of the cosmetology kit. Kits must be purchased with cash, money order or cashier check only. No credit cards or personal checks accepted.

GWC will not accept hours completed at other institutions.

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate all areas of cosmetology while observing the safety and sanitation rules set forth by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
  2. Review the written California State Board Cosmetology Licensure Examinations.
  3. Demonstrate the skills necessary to build and maintain an ongoing clientele in the cosmetology salon environment and industry.
  4. Apply work ethics within the cosmetology industry.
  5. Recall industry requirements regarding resumes, hiring, and keeping records of business transactions.

Potential careers students may enter upon completion are as follows:

  • Beauty salon
  • Self-employed cosmetologist
  • Personal care services
  • Resorts
  • Cruise ships
  • Nursing homes and retirement communities
  • Military bases
  • Public institutions
  • Hospitals
  • Prisons
  • Educational instructors
  • Beauty salon managers/directors
  • Beauty salon owners
  • Trichologist
  • Celebrity hairdresser
  • Sales – hair/wig products
  • Video/television
  • Film print commercial photo shoots
  • Distributors 
  • Entrepreneurial avenues

Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.

Course Title Units
Required Courses
COSM G021Cosmetology, Level I9
COSM G022Cosmetology, Level II9
COSM G023Cosmetology, Level III9
COSM G024Cosmetology, Level IV9
Major Total36
GE Pattern (Local, CSU GE-Breadth, or IGETC)18-39
Total Units60

Recommended Program Sequence

These sequences are general course maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, completion of short-term certificates, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. However, this may not be an appropriate path for all students.  The two-year sequence is based on English and Math placement and meeting other course prerequisites. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Year 1:

Course Title Units
Semester 1
COSM G021Cosmetology, Level I9
COSM G022Cosmetology, Level II9
Units18
Course Title Units
Semester 2
COSM G023Cosmetology, Level III9
COSM G024Cosmetology, Level IV9
Units18

Year 2:

Course Title Units
Semester 3
Area C: Arts & Humanities course3
Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or any additional course from Area A-D3
Units6
Course Title Units
Semester 4
ENGL G100Freshman Composition ^4
Area B: Natural Sciences course3
Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences course3
Ethnic Studies Competency3
Math Competency3
If Mathematics is satisfied by competency, select Area A2: Communication and Analytical Thinking course3
Units16-18
Total Degree Units60
^

Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement.