Cosmetology Program

Cosmetology Program Overview

The Cosmetology Program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a range of topics including hair coloring, styling, cutting, makeup, and salon management. In addition, the program emphasizes the importance of professionalism, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and sanitation. You will also become familiar with the rules and regulations outlined in the Cosmetology Act.

 

For additional details about the Esthetics Program, please visit https://sjcc.edu/dept/esthetics.aspx


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Employment Opportunities

A cosmetologist, sometimes called a hairstylist, is someone who specializes in giving beauty treatments, usually to women. A cosmetologist is proficient in hair treatments, facials, and other skin and nail treatments. Some cosmetologists specialize in just one of these areas. The sub-categories of cosmetology are hairstylists, hair colorists, manicurists, and estheticians. Often cosmetologists specialize in more than one of these categories.

A hairstylist specializes in hair cutting, hair coloring, styling, bridal updos, and makeup. Hairstylists apply hair extensions and weaves. Some hairstylists also give recommendations and perform work on wigs and hairpieces.

A manicurist specializes in nail care, including manicures, pedicures, and acrylic nails and gels.

An esthetician specializes in facials, head and neck massages, and hair removal through waxing. Some estheticians offer full-body massages. Estheticians may offer one or more of the following types of waxing: bikini, Brazilian, leg, or arm.

 

Department Contacts

  • Hours
  • 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • 408-288-3710

Enrollment

Enrollment into the program is accepted in either the Fall or Spring semester. Most students complete the program in two full semesters and a summer session. The Cosmetology program is designed for full-time students only. Because SJCC is a community college funded by the state, we are able to provide this comprehensive education at a fraction of the cost of private schools. The estimated cost of the entire program is $6,000.

Completion

When you enroll in the Cosmetology program, you will have the opportunity to receive instruction in the areas of hair, skin, nail, and salon skills. After successfully completing the program, you will be able to earn a Certificate of Achievement and/or Associate in Science degree. As an SJCC graduate, you will have the necessary skills and knowledge to pass the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology exam. To be eligible for a state license, you will need to successfully complete 1,600 clock hours in an educational institution approved by the Bureau of Barbering and Cosmetology.

Eligibility Criteria

Complete and submit the program application to the Cosmetology Department. This application is separate from the general SJCC application for admission.

Because of the high demand for the program, the Cosmetology department maintains a waitlist of students to enroll in the program. In order to get on the waitlist, please complete and submit the Cosmetology Department program application.

The completed application can be emailed to Lani.Rhynes@sjcc.edu or mailed:

The Cosmetology Department
San José City College
2100 Moorpark Ave
San José, CA 95125
To tour the department before enrolling, visit on Thursdays or Fridays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. Or call 408-288-3710 to schedule a walk-through.
To make the most of your time, consider enrolling in general education courses that can count towards earning an Associate of Science degree in Cosmetology.
Applications for Fall semester are processed in April, and for Spring semester in October. We will send you a notification by email regarding mandatory orientation.
Complete the SJCC application for admission and submit it either in person or online. To be eligible for admission, you must be at least 18 years old or have one of the following: 
  • High School Diploma
  • General Education Degree (GED)
  • High School Proficiency Certificate
    • For further information about the admission process, contact the following departments:
  • Admissions and Records Office (408) 288-3700
  • Counseling (408) 288-3750
  • Assessment (Placement Tests) (408) 288-3170
  • Financial Aid (408) 288-3741
    • All first-year students are required to attend orientation where they will receive important information about the program, such as State Board requirements, kit costs, and tuition. Parents are also invited to attend.
    Submit the requested information to the department. Provided you have met the requirements, you will be given a C-9 form to register along with an orientation packet. Without this form, you are not allowed to register at the Admissions & Records Office. Online and/or telephone registration is not available for Cosmetology students.
    Kit Day is when you will purchase your kit and review other course materials, including orientation. Please set aside all day for this.
    On the first day of class, there is an orientation where the program, syllabus, and procedures are explained. Every student must provide proof of their TB test within the first two weeks of the semester. Student Health Services offer free TB screening services. Call 408-288-3724 for more information and to make an appointment.