Associate in Occupational Technology Degree
Cosmetology
The Cosmetology program is designed to prepare individuals to meet the rigorous standards outlined by the Alabama State Board of Cosmetology. Students completing the program will have been trained in a number of disciplines such as: shampooing, haircutting, hair straightening, permanent waving, wig and hairpiece enhancement and hair coloring. Students are also trained in the area of facials and facial make-up, specialized scalp treatments as well as providing manicures and pedicures. These disciplines are taught and observed using strict industry standards in hygiene and safety. This program helps prepare students to take their cosmetologist exams with the Alabama State Board of Cosmetology.
Notes:
- A minimum grade of “C” in the Cosmetology courses is required for a student to enroll in Cosmetology courses for the next term and for graduation.
- Students may not switch between day and evening programs except at the beginning of a term and on a space available basis.
- TB Skin Test required for participation in Cosmetology program.
- Students who withdraw from the Cosmetology program must re-enter within a period of 12 months or start over with first term Cosmetology courses.
Degrees and Certificates
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Cosmetology, -
Cosmetology, Certificate (CER)
Classes
COS 111: INTRODUCTION TO COSMETOLOGY
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the history and development of cosmetology and standards of professional behavior. Students receive basic information regarding principles and practices of infection control, diseases, and disorders. Additionally, students receive introductory information regarding hair design. The information presented in this course is enhanced by hands-on application performed in a controlled lab environment. Upon completion, students should be able to apply safety rules and regulations and write procedures for skills identified in this course.
Corequisites
COS 112, 137, 145.
COS 112: INTRODUCTION TO COSMETOLOGY LAB
In this course, students are provided the practical experience for sanitation, shampooing, hair shaping, and hairstyling. Emphasis is placed on disinfection, shampooing, hair shaping, and hairstyling for various types of hair for men and women. This course offers opportunities for students to put into practice, concepts learned in the theory component from COS 111.
Corequisites
COS 111, 137, 145.
COS 113: THEORY OF CHEMICAL SERVICES
During this course students learn concepts of theory of chemical services related to the chemical hair texturing. Specific topics include basics of chemistry and electricity, properties of the hair and scalp, and chemical texture services. Safety considerations are emphasized throughout this course. This course is foundational for other courses providing more detailed instruction on these topics.
Prerequisites
COS 111, 112, 137, 145 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 114, 115, 116.
COS 114: CHEMICAL SERVICES LAB
During this course students perform various chemical texturing activities. Emphasis is placed on cosmetologist and client safety, chemical use and handling, hair and scalp analysis, and client consulting.
Prerequisites
COS 111 112, 137, 145 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 113, 115, 116.
COS 115: HAIR COLORING THEORY
In this course, students learn the techniques of hair coloring and hair lightening. Emphasis is placed on color application, laws, levels and classifications of color and problem solving. Upon completion, the student will be able to identify all classifications of hair coloring and the effects on the hair.
Prerequisites
COS 111, 112, 137, 145 with minimum grade of "C" of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 113, 114, 116.
COS 116: HAIR COLORING LAB
In this course, students apply hair coloring and hair lightening techniques. Topics include consultation, hair analysis, skin test and procedures and applications of all classifications of hair coloring and lightening. Upon completion, the student will be able to perform procedures for hair coloring and hair lightening.
Prerequisites
COS 111, 112, 137, 145 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 113, 114, 115.
COS 117: BASIC SPA TECHNIQUES
This course is the study of cosmetic products, massage, skin care, and hair removal, as well as identifying the structure and function of various systems of the body. Topics include massage skin analysis, skin structure, disease and disorder, light therapy, facials, facial cosmetics, anatomy, hair removal, and nail care. Upon completion, the student will be able to state procedures for analysis, light therapy, facials, hair removal, and identify the structures, functions, disorders of the skin, and nail care.
Prerequisites
COS 113, 114, 115, 116 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 118, 163, 164.
COS 118: BASIC SPA TECHNIQUES LAB
This course provides practical applications related to the care of the skin and related structure. Emphasis is placed on facial treatments, product application, skin analysis, massage techniques, facial make-up, hair removal, and nail care. Upon completion, the student should be able to prepare clients, assemble sanitized materials, follow procedures for product application, recognize skin disorders, demonstrate facial massage movement, cosmetic application, and hair removal using safety and sanitary precautions, and nail care.
Prerequisites
COS 113, 114, 115, 116 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 117, 163, 164.
COS 123: COSMETOLOGY SALON PRACTICES
This course is designed to allow students to practice all phases of cosmetology in a salon setting. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, receptionist duties, hair styling, hair shaping, chemical, and nail and skin services for clients. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate professionalism and the procedures of cosmetology in a salon setting.
Prerequisites
COS 117, 118, 163, 164 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 167, 125.
COS 125: CAREER AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
This course provides the study and practice of personal development and career building. Emphasis is placed on building and retaining clientele, communication skills, customer service, continuing education, and goal setting. Upon completion, the student should be able to communicate effectively and practice methods for building and retaining clientele.
Prerequisites
COS 117, 118, 163, 164 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 123, 167.
COS 137: HAIR SHAPING AND DESIGN THEORY
This course introduces students to concepts related to the art and techniques of hair shaping. Topics include hair sectioning, correct use of hair shaping implements, and elevations used to create design lines.
Corequisites
COS 111, 112, 145.
COS 145: HAIR SHAPING LAB
This course covers the study of the art and techniques of hair shaping. Topics include hair sectioning, correct use of hair shaping implements, and elevations used to create design lines. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate the techniques and procedures for creating hair designs using safety and sanitary precautions.
Corequisites
COS 111, 112, 137.
COS 163: FACIAL TREATMENTS
This course includes all phases of facial treatments in the study of skin care. Topics include treatments for oily, dry, and special skin applications. Upon completion, students will be able to apply facial treatments according to skin type.
Prerequisites
COS 113, 114, 115, 116 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 117, 118, 164.
COS 164: FACIAL MACHINE
This is a course designed to provide a practical experience using the vapor and facial machine with hydraulic chair. Topics include the uses of electricity and safety practices, machine and apparatus, use of the magnifying lamp, and light therapy. Upon completion, the student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of electrical safety and skills in the use of facial machines.
Prerequisites
COS 113, 114, 115, 116 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 117, 118, 163.
COS 167: STATE BOARD REVIEW
Students are provided a complete review of all procedures and practical skills pertaining to their training in the program. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate the practical skills necessary to complete successfully the required State Board of Cosmetology examination and entry-level employment.
Prerequisites
COS 117, 118, 163, 164 with minimum grade of "C" or permission of instructor.
Corequisites
COS 123, 125.
COS 191: CO-OP
This course provides work experience with a college-approved employer in an area related to the student's program of study. Emphasis is placed on integrating classroom learning with related work experience. Upon completion, students should be able to evaluate career selection, demonstrate employability skills, and satisfactorily perform work-related competencies.
Prerequisites
Permission of instructor.