The Program
Cosmetologists perform a variety of beauty services which cover all phases of the beauty culture such as manicuring, shampooing, hair styling, make-up application, temporary and permanent hair waving, hair straightening, bleaching and tinting, and various skin and scalp treatments. Cosmetologists often specialize in any one or more of these services. The art of hairstyling is no longer the major activity in the cosmetology industry. It has grown to be an increasingly complex and artistic profession. Strong human relations skills and the ability to communicate with people are of major importance.
Aptitudes and Interests: Good hand, finger and eye dexterity combined with artistic and creative skills enhance the ability to succeed in this field. Communication and human relation skills are also invaluable.
Helpful High School Courses
Biology, Chemistry, English, Human Relations, Mathematics, Social Sciences
Course Sequence
Program begins in August, January and May
Program length is 1/2 to 3 1/2 semesters
Admits 40 students each year
Typical classroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 5 days per week
Summer Session - mandatory
Nail Technology option offered only in the Summer Session
View Course Sequence
View Complete Course List
Certificates and Degrees
- Technical Certificate, Cosmetology
- Postsecondary Technical Certificate, Nail Technology
Program Requirements
Admission requirements:
Application for Admission
Application fee
High school transcript or GED
COMPASS Placement Test or ACT scores
Register early - admission is based on space availability.
Admission Steps
- Complete and return an Application for Admission along with a check or money order for $40 (non-refundable), payable to Idaho State University. You may also apply online.
- Submit official college transcripts, if applicable, from each accredited institution of higher education that you have attended.
- Submit an official copy of your high school transcript or GED scores (Not required if you have completed and submitted proof of 14 or more academic credits from an accredited institution of higher education.)
- Meet with a College of Technology counselor, if desired, to obtain more in-depth information. To make an appointment, call (208)282-2622.
- Either:
- Complete the COMPASS Placement test. This test enables us to place you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
- Submit ACT/SAT scores, valid for seven (7) years from the date of testing.
- Apply for financial aid if needed. Questions, call (208) 282-2756.
Fees
Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance.
| Class | Amount | Purpose of Fee |
|---|---|---|
| COSM 126/127/Fundamental Prin & Prac of Cosmetology | $20.00 | professional product used in lab |
| COSM 236/237/Advanced Prin & Prac of Cosmetology | $20.00 | professional product used in lab |
| COSM 116/117/Intro to Prin and Prac of Cosmetology | $1,050.00 | tool kit |
| COSM 150/Prin & Prac Nail Technology | $450.00 | tool kit |
| COSM 157/Fundamental Prin & Practice of Cosmetology IV | $10.00 | professional product used in lab |
Paying for College
You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.
Affirmative Action & Equal Employment Opportunity at ISU
Career Opportunities
87% of 2007 Cosmetology graduates were employed in related jobs.
Employment Opportunities
- Salon Ownership
- Beauty Salons and/or Spas
- Retail/Sales
- Platform artist for companies such as Redken
- Makeup artist
- Median Income in Idaho is $16,460 and nationally the median income is $20,610 in this field.*
- About 2,930 cosmetologists work in this occupation in Idaho*
* Idaho Career Information Systems data
All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Technology.