Cosmetology Instructor Certification

Even with the recent economic downturn and recession, the beauty industry has grown exponentially. Everyone wants to look good for every occasion. This makes the cosmetology industry nearly recession-proof. Beauty school graduates are finding flourishing careers as stylists, colorists, estheticians, makeup artists and many more.

Cosmetology Instructors

Cosmetology instructors begin as experienced cosmetologists who are then trained to teach skills and techniques to beauty school students. Most cosmetology instructors have practiced their craft for several years before they decide to become teachers. For many, it is the next step in their career after running a successful salon. Because these licensed cosmetologists are already familiar with the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills necessary for their trade, most instructor coursework focuses on teaching methods and communication skills.

In order to be a successful cosmetology instructor, a wide range of knowledge and skill is needed. This expertise is only gained through hands-on experience working in the field. While curriculum development, teaching methods and pedagogical theories can be taught in the classroom, this experience can only come through working with clients as a licensed cosmetologist.

Cosmetology Instructor Certification Programs

Becoming a certified instructor at a beauty college actually requires you to attend school and become certified by your state’s cosmetology board twice. Before you can even begin a beauty school teaching certification program, you have to have your cosmetology license. This means you have to have attended cosmetology school or earned a cosmetology degree from a vocational or technical school. Then, you took and passed your state’s cosmetology licensing exam. The hands-on hours necessary before being eligible to take this exam vary from state to state, but are usually included in your education.

Once you have your cosmetology license, you can begin working in a salon. There you will gain experience and expertise, and sharpen your skills. If you are looking for a new challenge after several years, you may want to consider sharing your skills with others by teaching cosmetology coursework yourself.

In order to become a cosmetology instructor, you will have to return to school and complete more hours of training. This time, you will focus on learning how to teach, how to evaluate students and how to communicate clearly with those in training. In many states this is a minimum of 1,000 additional hours of coursework. Once this program is completed, you can then take the state license exam for instructors.

Careers for Cosmetology Instructors

As the *demand for licensed cosmetologists rises, so does the need for well-qualified cosmetology instructors. Vocational schools, beauty colleges and technical schools are all looking for additional instructors to help them handle the increase in students. Becoming a cosmetology instructor may be a great next step in your career in cosmetology if you are ready for a new challenge. In addition, teaching positions at well-known schools can be lucrative. In some cases, you may also be able to continue running your salon while teaching part-time as well.

*According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics