Cosmetology
The Cosmetology curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific/artistic principles, and hands-on fundamentals associated with the cosmetology industry. The curriculum provides a simulated salon environment that enables students to develop manipulative skills.
Course work includes instruction in all phases of professional imaging, hair design, chemical processes, skin care, nail care, multi-cultural practices, business/computer principles, product knowledge, and other selected topics.
Graduates should qualify to sit for the State Board of Cosmetic Arts examination. Upon successfully passing the State Board exam, graduates are issued a license. Employment is available in beauty salons and related businesses.
For more information, visit the Cosmetology Program of Study website.
For specific information about potential positions and wages in cosmetology employment, visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website.
Cosmetology, Associate Degree (A55140)
Degree Awarded
The Associate in Applied Science Degree – Cosmetology is awarded by the college upon completion of this program.
Admissions
- Complete an admissions application to Central Piedmont.
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Submit high school transcripts and any former college transcripts to Admissions, Records & Registration.
- Request all former college transcripts be evaluated for transfer credit to Central Piedmont
- Central Piedmont placement tests are required. Developmental courses in English and mathematics are available for students to build basic skills and knowledge.
- Consult with an advisement counselor and attend an orientation session following placement testing.
- Complete a Cosmetology Program Application.
Notes
Progression in this program depends upon a grade of “C” or better in all general education courses and major and related courses.
Students applying to the Central Piedmont Cosmetology Program are required to submit a copy of their Social Security Card, Tax ID card or student visa information, government-issued identification, and proof of date of birth. They also must submit an acknowledgment of the NC State Board of Cosmetic Arts felony policy found on the program application.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| PSY 150 | General Psychology | 3.0 |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Writing and Research in the Disciplines | ||
| Literature-Based Research | ||
| Professional Research & Reporting | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
| Public Speaking | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Mathematical Measurement and Literacy | ||
| Quantitative Literacy | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Art Appreciation | ||
| Art History Survey I | ||
| Art History Survey II | ||
| Theatre Appreciation | ||
| Cultural Studies | ||
| Myth in Human Culture | ||
| Music Appreciation | ||
| Introduction to Jazz | ||
| Philosophical Issues | ||
| Introduction to Ethics | ||
| World Religions | ||
| Major Requirements | ||
| ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | 1.0 |
| COS 111 | Cosmetology Concepts I | 4.0 |
| COS 112 | Salon I | 8.0 |
| COS 113 | Cosmetology Concepts II | 4.0 |
| COS 114 | Salon II | 8.0 |
| COS 115 | Cosmetology Concepts III | 4.0 |
| COS 116 | Salon III | 4.0 |
| COS 117 | Cosmetology Concepts IV | 2.0 |
| COS 118 | Salon IV | 7.0 |
| COS 240 | Contemporary Design | 2.0 |
| or WBL 111 & WBL 112 | Work-Based Learning I and Work-Based Learning I | |
| COS 223 | Contemp Hair Coloring | 2.0 |
| BUS 230 | Small Business Management | 3.0 |
| CIS 110 | Introduction to Computers | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 70 | |
Cosmetology Diploma (D55140)
Diploma Awarded
The Cosmetology Diploma is awarded by the college upon completion of this program.
Admissions
- Complete an admissions application to Central Piedmont.
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Submit high school transcripts and any former college transcripts to Admissions, Records & Registration.
- Request all former college transcripts be evaluated for transfer credit to Central Piedmont.
- Central Piedmont placement tests are required. Developmental courses in English and mathematics are available for students to build basic skills and knowledge.
- Consult with an advisement counselor and attend an orientation session following placement testing.
- Complete a Cosmetology Program Application.
Notes
Progression in this program is dependent upon a grade of “C” or better in all general education courses, as well as major and related courses.
Students applying to the Central Piedmont Cosmetology Program are required to submit a copy of their Social Security Card, Tax ID card or student visa information, government-issued identification, and proof of date of birth. They also must submit an acknowledgment of the NC State Board of Cosmetic Arts felony policy, found on the program application.
Cosmetology Diploma (D55140)
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| PSY 150 | General Psychology | 3.0 |
| Core Courses | ||
| COS 111 | Cosmetology Concepts I | 4.0 |
| COS 112 | Salon I | 8.0 |
| COS 113 | Cosmetology Concepts II | 4.0 |
| COS 114 | Salon II | 8.0 |
| COS 115 | Cosmetology Concepts III | 4.0 |
| COS 116 | Salon III | 4.0 |
| COS 117 | Cosmetology Concepts IV | 2.0 |
| COS 118 | Salon IV | 7.0 |
| Total Credits | 47 | |
Cosmetology Certificates
Cosmetology Instructor Certificate (C55160)
| Major Requirements | ||
| COS 271 | Instructor Concepts I | 5.0 |
| COS 272 | Instructor Practicum I | 7.0 |
| COS 273 | Instructor Concepts II | 5.0 |
| COS 274 | Instructor Practicum II | 7.0 |
| Total Credits | 24 | |
Cosmetology Certificate (C55140-C1)
This certificate also is available to high school students through Career and College Promise.
The beauty industry offers highly skilled and personable professionals many employment opportunities in beauty salons, department stores, barbershops, hospitals, hotels, spas, and resorts. Entrepreneurial careers include salon ownership, beauty product creation, freelance cosmetic artistry for movie sets, and magazine photoshoots. Get started on a career in cosmetology by enrolling in the CCP Fundamentals program.
| Major Requirements | ||
| COS 111 | Cosmetology Concepts I | 4.0 |
| COS 112 | Salon I | 8.0 |
| COS 113 | Cosmetology Concepts II | 4.0 |
| COS 114 | Salon II | 8.0 |
| COS 115 | Cosmetology Concepts III | 4.0 |
| COS 116 | Salon III | 4.0 |
| Other Major Requirements | ||
| COS 240 | Contemporary Design | 2.0 |
| Total Credits | 34 | |
The following is the suggested plan for when to take each course to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree, based on the program requirements of the 2022-2023 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order upon consultation with your advisor. This plan is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the plan and any questions. This program might also offer diplomas or certificates; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
Courses
COS 111AB. Cosmetology Concepts I. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, first aid, sanitation, bacteriology, anatomy, diseases and disorders, hygiene, product knowledge, chemistry, ethics, manicures, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 111BB. Cosmetology Concepts I. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, first aid, sanitation, bacteriology, anatomy, diseases and disorders, hygiene, product knowledge, chemistry, ethics, manicures, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 111. Cosmetology Concepts I. 4.0 Credits. Class-4.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, first aid, sanitation, bacteriology, anatomy, diseases and disorders, hygiene, product knowledge, chemistry, ethics, manicures, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 112AB. Salon I. 4.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-12.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic salon services. Topics include scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, permanent waving, pressing, relaxing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate salon services.
COS 112. Salon I. 8.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-24.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic salon services. Topics include scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, permanent waving, pressing, relaxing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate salon services.
COS 112BB. Salon I. 4.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-12.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basic salon services. Topics include scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, permanent waving, pressing, relaxing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate salon services.
COS 113AB. Cosmetology Concepts II. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, chemistry, manicuring, chemical restructuring, and hair coloring. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 113BB. Cosmetology Concepts II. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, chemistry, manicuring, chemical restructuring, and hair coloring. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 113. Cosmetology Concepts II. 4.0 Credits. Class-4.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, chemistry, manicuring, chemical restructuring, and hair coloring. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 114BB. Salon II. 4.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-12.0. Work-0.0
This course provides experience in a simulated salon setting. Topics include basic skin care, manicuring, nail application, scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 114. Salon II. 8.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-24.0. Work-0.0
This course provides experience in a simulated salon setting. Topics include basic skin care, manicuring, nail application, scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 114AB. Salon II. 4.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-12.0. Work-0.0
This course provides experience in a simulated salon setting. Topics include basic skin care, manicuring, nail application, scalp treatments, shampooing, rinsing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, wigs, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 115. Cosmetology Concepts III. 4.0 Credits. Class-4.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, salon management, salesmanship, skin care, electricity/light therapy, wigs, thermal hair styling, lash and brow tinting, superfluous hair removal, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 115AB. Cosmetology Concepts III. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, salon management, salesmanship, skin care, electricity/light therapy, wigs, thermal hair styling, lash and brow tinting, superfluous hair removal, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 115BB. Cosmetology Concepts III. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers more comprehensive cosmetology concepts. Topics include safety, product knowledge, salon management, salesmanship, skin care, electricity/light therapy, wigs, thermal hair styling, lash and brow tinting, superfluous hair removal, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently apply these cosmetology concepts in the salon setting.
COS 116AB. Salon III. 2.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course provides comprehensive experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on intermediate-level of skin care, manicuring, scalp treatments, shampooing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 116. Salon III. 4.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-12.0. Work-0.0
This course provides comprehensive experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on intermediate-level of skin care, manicuring, scalp treatments, shampooing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 116BB. Salon III. 2.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course provides comprehensive experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on intermediate-level of skin care, manicuring, scalp treatments, shampooing, hair color, design, haircutting, chemical restructuring, pressing, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely and competently demonstrate these salon services.
COS 117AB. Cosmetology Concepts IV. 1.0 Credit. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced cosmetology concepts. Topics include chemistry and hair structure, advanced cutting and design, and an overview of all cosmetology concepts in preparation for the licensing examination. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of these cosmetology concepts and meet program completion requirements.
COS 117BB. Cosmetology Concepts IV. 1.0 Credit. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced cosmetology concepts. Topics include chemistry and hair structure, advanced cutting and design, and an overview of all cosmetology concepts in preparation for the licensing examination. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of these cosmetology concepts and meet program completion requirements.
COS 117. Cosmetology Concepts IV. 2.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced cosmetology concepts. Topics include chemistry and hair structure, advanced cutting and design, and an overview of all cosmetology concepts in preparation for the licensing examination. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of these cosmetology concepts and meet program completion requirements.
COS 118. Salon IV. 7.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-21.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on efficient and competent delivery of all salon services in preparation for the licensing examination and employment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in program requirements and the areas covered on the Cosmetology Licensing Examination and meet entry-level employment requirements.
COS 118BB. Salon IV. 3.5 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-10.5. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on efficient and competent delivery of all salon services in preparation for the licensing examination and employment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in program requirements and the areas covered on the Cosmetology Licensing Examination and meet entry-level employment requirements.
COS 118AB. Salon IV. 3.5 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-10.5. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced experience in a simulated salon setting. Emphasis is placed on efficient and competent delivery of all salon services in preparation for the licensing examination and employment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in program requirements and the areas covered on the Cosmetology Licensing Examination and meet entry-level employment requirements.
COS 223. Contemp Hair Coloring. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers basic color concepts, hair coloring problems, and application techniques. Topics include color theory, terminology, contemporary techniques, product knowledge, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to identify a clients color needs and safely and competently perform color applications and correct problems.
COS 240. Contemporary Design. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers methods and techniques for contemporary designs. Emphasis is placed on contemporary designs and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate and apply techniques associated with contemporary design.
COS 271. Instructor Concepts I. 5.0 Credits. Class-5.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the basic cosmetology instructional concepts. Topics include orientation, theories of education, unit planning, daily lesson planning, laboratory management, student assessment, record keeping, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to identify theories of education, develop lesson plans, demonstrate supervisory techniques, and assess student performance in a classroom setting.
COS 272. Instructor Practicum I. 7.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-21.0. Work-0.0
This course covers supervisory and instructional skills for teaching entry-level cosmetology students in a laboratory setting. Topics include demonstrations of services, supervision, and entry-level student assessment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate salon services and instruct and objectively assess the entry-level student.
COS 273. Instructor Concepts II. 5.0 Credits. Class-5.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced cosmetology instructional concepts. Topics include practical demonstrations, lesson planning, lecture techniques, development and administration of assessment tools, record keeping, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to develop lesson plans, demonstrate supervision techniques, assess student performance in a classroom setting, and keep accurate records.
COS 274. Instructor Practicum II. 7.0 Credits. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-21.0. Work-0.0
This course is designed to develop supervisory and instructional skills for teaching advanced cosmetology students in a laboratory setting. Topics include practical demonstrations, supervision, and advanced student assessment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in the areas covered by the Instructor Licensing Examination and meet program completion requirements.