The Cosmetology Program

Cosmetology School

We prepare our students (or as we call them, Future Professionals) for careers in the beauty industry as licensed cosmetologists. Students are guided by our Learning Leaders through the Cosmetology program’s three levels—Core, Adaptive and Creative—taking on more advanced techniques and building real-world skills and confidence as they move through each stage.

OUR PROGRAM LEVELS

LEVEL 1: CORE

A foundation course focusing on the fundamentals of cutting, color, texture, styling, skin and nails, and an introduction to our Paul Mitchell Schools culture. Future Professionals learn the fundamentals in theory, then practice them hands-on in the safe environment of the classroom. You’ll work on mannequin heads and receive close, personal attention from a Learning Leader guiding you every step of the way.

Technical Areas Covered Include:

Braiding, up-styling and finishing
Perming and smoothing hair
Hair coloring and lightening
Precision haircutting skills
Manicure, pedicure, makeup and facials
And much more

LEVEL 2: ADAPTIVE

The learning continues in the classroom and on the clinic floor, where Future Professionals practice and perfect the fundamental skills learned in Core. Adaptive-level students work on live models in a salon-like environment with the oversight and support of their Learning Leaders. You will work with professional products and learn how to conduct client consultations and create extraordinary guest-service experiences.

Areas Covered Include:

Practice on real people in a salon-like environment
Perfect your skills with help from Learning Leaders

LEVEL 3: CREATIVE

The Creative phase is where Future Professionals begin to expand their skills and learn more advanced and creative techniques. At the Creative level, students prepare to become salon-ready by working more independently. The pace and conditions are similar to those in a salon. You will develop your speed, build a résumé and portfolio and prepare to pass the state board test.

Areas Covered Include:

Work independently (under the supervision of a Learning Leader)
Prepare a career portfolio
Prepare to pass the State Board test
Develop speed and prepare to start your career

PHASE TWO

An optional course of intensive study within the Cosmetology program for those Future Professionals who want to be challenged to their highest level of performance. Phase Two students get advanced training and work in conditions that mimic salon reality. By planning, managing and setting team goals, and going that extra mile, you’ll learn to create your own success.

The Phase Two program features:

A progressive clinic floor classroom setting environment
Accelerated guest booking and double-booking
Team-based guest service systems
Personal and team goal setting for services and Take Home
Refinement of creative technical skills
High level of independence in decision making
Collaborative and consultative relationship with the Phase Two Leader
Special Phase Two guest artists
Guest management training
Coaching on advanced Take Home and service skills

COSMETOLOGY STATE
BOARD EXAMINATION

Paul Mitchell Schools prepare you for your life beyond the classroom doors—but before you can land your dream job in the beauty industry, you must first pass the Cosmetology State Board Examination. Fortunately, our Learning Leaders are trained to teach using a unique multifaceted approach to address the full range of learning styles in every lesson and with every student. So whether you’re a visual learner or learn best hands-on, we’ll help you feel confident and prepared to pass the state board examination and become a licensed cosmetologist.

See How We Teach

STUDENT KIT

We want you to be prepared. That’s why our Future Professionals receive their own professional kit packed with all the essentials—mannequin heads, shears, clippers and trimmers, a straight-edge razor, combs, clips, and much more—so you’re ready to succeed in school and launch your dream career.

COSMETOLOGY LICENSE

Passing the Cosmetology State Board Examination is one of the eligibility requirements you must meet in order to obtain your cosmetology license. Additional requirements vary by state, so please contact a Paul Mitchell Schools Admissions Counselor at a location near you so we can provide you with the best information and guidance.

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FUNDING YOUR EDUCATION

There are a wide variety of financial aid options out there—and we’re here to help you find them. Every campus has a dedicated Financial Aid Leader to walk you through your options.

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Get Started

Our programs graduate over 10,000 students every year from our 100+ schools. Programs vary by location, so please find a Paul Mitchell School near you for more information on class start dates, tuition and opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.