Overview

Cosmetology

Now may be the best time to join the cosmetology field. Between influencers showing us what’s possible and a growing understanding of skin, nail and hair health needs, it makes sense that the number of cosmetology jobs is growing.
Cosmetology is the professional practice or skill of beautifying the skin, hair and nails. Cosmetologists are masters of treatments, procedures and therapies that help their clients accentuate their best features and present a more attractive version of themselves. The opportunities are endless! Fill out an application today and begin your future in cosmetology!

Application to Program

The Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail programs at WVU Parkersburg have limited enrollment and a selective review process. Applicants requesting admission must first meet the requirements for general admission to the college and be admitted to WVU Parkersburg. General admission standards for WVU Parkersburg are outlined in Board of Governors Policy D-51.

In addition to meeting all general admission requirements for the college, students seeking admission to the cosmetology program must complete a separate WVU Parkersburg Cosmetology Application as part of the program selection process. Applicants must also complete a State Board Cosmetology Student Registration, which is submitted to the West Virginia State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. This registration requires submission of all required documentation along with the applicable state application fee.

Applicants to the Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology program must also be eligible to meet the requirements for professional licensure in the state of West Virginia as established by WVBBC Code 30-27-8. Applicants for licensure must provide satisfactory evidence that they meet the following criteria:

• Are at least eighteen years of age

• Are of good moral character

• Have a high school diploma, GED, or have passed an approved Ability to Benefit test

• Have graduated from a licensed school approved by the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education (CCTCE), the Department of Education in conjunction with CCTCE, or have completed equivalent training that meets board requirements

• Have passed the required examination testing knowledge of subjects specified by the board, or hold an equivalent recognized credential

• Have paid all applicable fees

• Provide a certificate of health from a licensed physician

• Are a citizen of the United States or eligible for employment in the United States

Program Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology program, applicants must also meet the following criteria:

1. Graduate from high school or hold an equivalent credential (GED).

2. Demonstrate English proficiency.

3. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher from high school or prior college coursework.

4. Place into college-level English and Math.

Students with a GPA below 2.0 may complete one semester of general education coursework to improve their GPA. After successfully completing the general education component, the student may then proceed with the cosmetology program application process.

It is important to note that completion of the application process does not guarantee admission into the cosmetology program. Admission and graduation from the program also do not guarantee that the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists will approve the graduate to sit for the licensure examination.

Hair Styling And Cutting

Hair design involves cutting, shaping, texturing, styling, coloring, bleaching, curling, tinting and treating hair. Typically, hair design is the biggest focus in total hours within a cosmetology program.

Esthetics

Esthetics is the field of skincare. Our cosmetology program will give you the flexibility to incorporate skincare services into your overall skillset in beauty services by teaching you basics of treatments like exfoliation, skin conditioning, wrinkle reduction, facials, tanning, skin detox, masks or anti-aging procedures.

Nail Services

With a cosmetology license, you will be able to perform manicures, pedicures and other treatments specific to nails and cuticles. Some cosmetologists may do nail artistry, including nail jewelry and the application of gels or acrylics.

Makeup

Cosmetologists can apply makeup, such as special occasion and event makeup for photoshoots, weddings, proms, or fashion shows. Some may work with film or theater directors to achieve special effects on actors.

Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology

The AAS in Cosmetology is a 4-semester program that provides instruction in all aspects of cosmetology. Students begin in the fall semester and complete their studies over the next 16 months.

Course Listing

Careers

What Can I Do With This Degree?

A career in cosmetology can take you as far as you want! Hairstylist, consultant, skin specialist, nail technician, esthetician, instructor, manager or salon owner are all possible. How about a makeup artist on a Hollywood movie set? The sky is the limit!

Costs

Tuition

Estimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change.
*Early College fees may differ per program, for example, in Welding and Cosmetology.

Estimated Costs Of Attendance

Estimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation.

Related Programs

Business, Accounting & Public Service Programs

• Accounting & Financial Management
• Management & Marketing
• General Business
• Business Administration

Request Information

Lisa Carter

Director, School of Cosmetology and Esthetics (Workforce, Technical & Computer Information Science Division)

• Room: School of Cosmetology
• 304-420-8618
• lisa.carter@wvup.edu