Cosmetology III
In this advanced course, students build on the foundation of science and practice in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models and mannequins, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in chemical texture services and advanced hair coloring techniques. They develop artistic skills with wigs and hair additions. In addition, they learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. An advanced business management unit focuses on managing the salon. Completion prepares the student for the Virginia State Licensing Exam. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals. and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.
Notes
Cosmetology students must satisfy a minimum of 840 hours of instruction in a three-year coherent sequence of courses to be eligible to take the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology licensing examination. Upon successful completion of the program, students may earn the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology license. For more information, see Superintendent's Memo 075-16 and Superintendent's Memo 072-17.
Effective July 1, 2025, Section 54.1-700 of the Code of Virginia updated the definitions of cosmetologist and cosmetology to clarify that cosmetic treatments are not included in these definitions. As a result, straight razor shaving and body treatments will no longer be in the scope of the cosmetology program. For additional information, reference 18VAC41-20-210 for curriculum requirements and 18VAC41-20-220 for practical performance requirements.
Class Size Regulation
The Virginia Administrative Code regulates the class size for this course. For additional information, see 8VAC20-120-150, "Maximum class size," or contact the Virginia Department of Education Office of Career and Technical Education at cte@doe.virginia.gov.
Industry Credentials (Only apply to 36-week courses)
Virginia’s High Demand Occupations and Apprenticeable Occupations
Section § 2.2-2472 of the Code of Virginia requires the Virginia Board of Workforce Development (VBWD) to publish a list of jobs, trades, and professions for which a high demand for qualified workers exists or is projected. The Virginia Office of Education Economics (VOEE) collaborated with the VBWD and related stakeholders to develop the high demand occupations list. VOEE’s mission is to leverage data to inform educational programming, policy, and workforce partnerships across the Commonwealth. See also the Virginia 2024 High Demand Occupations Dashboard.
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code, Occupation Description, and Active Apprenticeable Occupation status (Yes/No per the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry).
| SOC Code | Occupation Description | Apprenticeable Occupation |
|---|---|---|
| 395011 | Barbers | Yes |
| 395012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | Yes |
| 395092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | Yes |
| 395094 | Skincare Specialists | Yes |
Career Clusters
| Pathway | Occupation |
|---|---|
| Personal Care Services |
|
