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Career Profile - What You Need to Know About...

Cosmetology (5357)

At a Glance
The program includes theory and salon experience in hair styling, hair cutting, hair coloring, permanent waving and hair relaxing, manicures and pedicures, salon management and skin care services. In addition, course work covers cosmetology law, ethics, and other technical information related to the field.

Instruction is designed to prepare the student to successfully pass the Florida State Board of Cosmetology exam. Upon passing the examination, the student will become a licensed Cosmetologist.
Employment Opportunities Upon Completion of this program, you may seek employment as a Cosmetologist or Hair Stylist. Most cosmetologists are employed in beauty salons, spas, department stores, resorts, cruise ships, nursing and other residential care homes, and drug and cosmetic stores. Employment in this area is concentrated in the most populous cities and states.



Occupational Outlook Handbook
Job Outlook According to the U.S. Department of Labor Information found in the Choices Planner, a total of 22,000 average annual openings are expected for this occupation between 2004-2014. Average growth is expected. Numerous job openings will arise from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations, retire, or leave the labor force for other reasons.

Choices Planner (Choose Jump in, Choices Planner, Work Tab)
Salary Information According to the U.S. Department of labor, the average annual Florida wage is $24,419. The entry average hourly wage is $11.74 compared to an experienced Florida annual wage of $29,016. The annual experienced hourly wage is $13.95. Tips range from 15-20 percent of bill. Top earnings with established clientele can earn $50,000 - $60,000 yearly, or more in salary and tips. Earnings vary widely with specialty, level of expertise, hours worked, geographical area and reputation of salon. A cosmetologist’s initiative and ability to attract and hold regular clients also are key factors in determining their earnings.

Choices Planner (Choose Jump in, Choices Planner, Work Tab)
Special Skills or Qualifications Needed Cheerful personality, must be a good listener, finger dexterity, ability to develop relationship with client, enjoy interacting with diverse people, using business skills. Must be neat, organized, personable, and have enthusiasm for service. Have an eye for flattering styles. Attention to detail and follow safety and sanitary guidelines. Business skills are necessary if one wants to become a salon owner/manager or independent consultant.

Once you complete and pass the 1200 hour PBCC program you must also pass the State Cosmetology Exam.

Career Planning Suggestions for Success Thoroughly research the occupation and talk with a cosmetologist in the field. Visit the PBCC Cosmetologist at the Lake Worth Campus. The PBCC Career Consultants Network may have the name of a person you can contact. Refer to the Career Center for more information.

PBCC Career Centers Can Assist You:

Currently enrolled students can also log in to the PBCC Online Career Office program http://www.pbcc.edu/career/ (choose student log in) to locate other resources for information on occupations, employment opportunities, and people in the community willing to talk to students about their career.

Contact a Career Center for assistance with your career planning or job search at your campus:

Lake Worth: (561) 868-3066
Palm Beach Gardens: (561) 207-5350
Boca Raton: (561) 862-4325
Belle Glade: (561) 993-1167

Or E-Mail Us careercenter@pbcc.edu If you prefer.




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Palm Beach Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the Bachelor of Applied Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Palm Beach Community College.

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