Cosmetology
Hands‑On Cosmetology Training in Hair, Skin, & Nails for DC‑Area Salon Careers!
-Total of 1,000 hours: Balanced Combination of Classroom, Laboratory, and Clinical Experience
-Instructor Program: A program Specifically Designed to Lead a student in becoming a Cosmetology Instructor
-State License Exam Prep. Classes offered
The Cosmetology Program at Columbia College prepares students for careers in hair design, nail technology, and makeup artistry in the Washington, DC metropolitan area and Northern Virginia.
Through a curriculum that combines theory with approximately 80% hands‑on salon training, students learn essential cosmetology techniques while exploring current beauty industry trends and innovations.
Training covers hair cutting and styling, hair color and chemical services, manicures and pedicures, nail art and enhancements, facials, makeup application, and customer service in a professional salon environment.
Whether building foundational skills or refining advanced techniques, the Cosmetology Program equips students with the knowledge and real‑world experience needed to pass state licensing exams and begin entry‑level cosmetology careers as hairstylists, colorists, nail technicians, makeup artists, and salon assistants.
Federal Student Aid Notice
Federal Pell Grants are available to eligible undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. Eligibility and estimated award amounts are determined based on information provided on the FAFSA®. Final financial aid offers are determined by the school. To apply or learn more, visit StudentAid.gov.
Train for an In-Demand, Licensed Cosmetology Career in the DC Metro Area.
With strong, long-term demand across salons, spas, and barbershops, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth and tens of thousands of openings yearly. Our program provides thorough State Board exam preparation aligned with NIC standards, so you can graduate ready for the exam room and the workforce.
Educational Outcomes/Settings
Our Cosmetology Program combines classroom theory with hands-on training in a fully equipped salon-style lab, giving students practical experience in haircutting, coloring, chemical services, nail care, and skin care under licensed instructor supervision. The curriculum is aligned with Virginia State Board requirements and NIC standards, ensuring graduates complete the required training hours and are fully prepared for licensure examinations. By graduation, students have developed both the technical skills and professional client-service abilities needed to succeed in real salon and spa settings.
Opportunities in Virginia
Our Cosmetology Program gives students real-world salon and spa experience, practicing on live models and mannequins under instructor supervision to build client-ready confidence. Students also connect with local salons, barbershops, and spas across the DC metro area and Northern Virginia, creating early networking and employment leads. After passing their State Board examinations, many graduates move directly into entry-level roles as hairstylists, nail technicians, makeup artists, or salon support staff, with clear pathways to advanced training, specialization in color or extensions, bridal and event styling, or eventually booth renting and salon ownership.
Median Salary
$49,360
per year$23.73
per hourIdentification
- •Passport
- •Driver's License
- •State-issued ID
Education History
- •Diploma/school transcript (at least high school)
- •General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
- •DD-214 form
Application Fee
Domestic$100
International Applicants
This program is currently unavailable for international students
Non-Native English Speakers
CaMLA (Cambridge Michigan Language Assessments) English Test to define the English level (Must be at Advanced Level).
Compliances & Guidelines
Industry Associations
