Beauty & Cosmetology Degrees and Programs

The personal care industry is a booming business. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 821,900 cosmetologists, barbers and other personal appearance workers were employed in 2008, and it projects a 20 percent boost in job opportunities between 2008 and 2018. With about 165,500 new opportunities expected to open across the industry--the majority going to hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists--training now might be your best bet.

The personal care industry is a booming business. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 821,900 cosmetologists, barbers and other personal appearance workers were employed in 2008, and it projects a 20 percent boost in job opportunities between 2008 and 2018. With about 165,500 new opportunities expected to open across the industry--the majority going to hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists--training now might be your best bet.

Salons, spas and barbershops are the biggest employers for beauty and cosmetology degree holders, but they're far from the only ones. With the right training, you could find work in a department store, physician's office or even on a cruise ship. Nearly half of all personal appearance workers are self-employed, meaning that business savvy could serve you well in this industry.

Beauty & cosmetology courses combine fashion and business

Beauty and cosmetology programs can last 9 months or more, though nail and skin care courses require less time. Cosmetology courses include classes in hair care techniques such as coloring, cutting and styling. They also cover sanitation and safety. Students may also take courses in business, marketing or management to prepare them to run a salon someday.