Health & Personal Services · course plan
⚠ Pending professional review
This course plan, its lessons and its assessments has not yet been verified by a licensed clinician in the field or by a certification or approval body. It is a study draft and may contain errors. Do not use it to make decisions about any patient or medication. Always follow your instructor, your supervising professional, and current official references and regulations.
VoTechWorks program approval and accreditation are still in progress. Credentials are issued only by the certifying bodies named in each program, after their own exams.
Cosmetology
10 courses · 1,500 clock hours · 10–15 mo full-time. Grading is competency-based: each course requires the written exam, a competent skills demonstration with zero safety faults, a signed log, and a passed safety audit; percentage weights only rank performance above the competency floor.
10courses
90lessons
1,500hours
35assessments
Development progressPlanCourses, lessons and assessments written for this tradeLessons90 of 90 lesson pages writtenPractice718 practice questionsResources114 reference entries (study list)Review0 lesson pages reviewed by a licensed professional
Study now: 90 lesson pages are open (lesson titles below are links).
HLT-COSM32-01 Universal core
Universal Core: Safety, Math, Communication & Career for Cosmetology
148 hr · $1,185 COMPLIMENTARY
This foundational course equips cosmetology students with the safety knowledge, trade mathematics, communication skills, and career-readiness habits required throughout the full 1,500-hour program and beyond. Students complete OSHA 10 General Industry training and hands-on first aid/CPR certification, then apply trade-specific math, technical reading, and digital tools to real salon scenarios. All content is mapped to the safety and professional-practice domains tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
Outcomes- Complete OSHA 10 General Industry training and demonstrate knowledge of workplace hazard recognition, chemical safety (SDS/GHS), and required personal protective equipment used in cosmetology.
- Perform basic first aid and CPR/AED procedures at the level required for a current American Heart Association or Red Cross certification card.
- Solve trade-specific math problems—including unit conversion, percentage solutions, markup/discount pricing, and tip/commission calculations—accurately and independently.
- Read and interpret technical documents common in cosmetology, including product SDS sheets, manufacturer mixing instructions, service menus, and state board rule booklets.
- Use standard digital tools—appointment scheduling software, client intake forms, email, and professional social-media guidelines—appropriately and professionally.
- Construct a career portfolio containing a resume, professional biography, and a written personal code of ethics aligned with state scope-of-practice requirements.
Course text
This foundational course equips cosmetology students with the safety knowledge, trade mathematics, communication skills, and career-readiness habits required throughout the full 1,500-hour program and beyond. Students complete OSHA 10 General Industry training and hands-on first aid/CPR certification, then apply trade-specific math, technical reading, and digital tools to real salon scenarios. All content is mapped to the safety and professional-practice domains tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
How the course runs. 7 blocks: Workplace Safety and OSHA 10 for the Salon Environment; First Aid, CPR, and Medical Emergency Response; Trade Mathematics and Measurement for Cosmetology; Technical Reading: SDS, Manufacturer Instructions, and State Rules; Digital Tools and Professional Online Presence; Communication, Client Relations, and Professional Ethics; Career Readiness and Portfolio Launch.
What competent looks like. Complete OSHA 10 General Industry training and demonstrate knowledge of workplace hazard recognition, chemical safety (SDS/GHS), and required personal protective equipment used in cosmetology. Perform basic first aid and CPR/AED procedures at the level required for a current American Heart Association or Red Cross certification card. Solve trade-specific math problems—including unit conversion, percentage solutions, markup/discount pricing, and tip/commission calculations—accurately and independently. Read and interpret technical documents common in cosmetology, including product SDS sheets, manufacturer mixing instructions, service menus, and state board rule booklets. Use standard digital tools—appointment scheduling software, client intake forms, email, and professional social-media guidelines—appropriately and professionally. Construct a career portfolio containing a resume, professional biography, and a written personal code of ethics aligned with state scope-of-practice requirements.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Workplace Safety and OSHA 10 for the Salon Environment | 30 | theory | Students will identify the ten core OSHA General Industry topic areas, correctly read a Safety Data Sheet for a common cosmetology chemical, and describe the hierarchy of hazard controls as applied to salon operations. |
| OSHA 10 General Industry student booklets or authorized online portal, SDS sheets for five product categories, PPE samples (nitrile gloves, safety glasses, chemical-resistant apron), projector, hazard-hunt photo cards | Students pass the OSHA 10 end-of-course assessment at the threshold required by the authorized training provider to receive the OSHA 10 completion card (typically 70% or higher); SDS worksheet scored with a rubric requiring correct identification of all five required data fields on each of the five sheets to pass. |
| 2 | First Aid, CPR, and Medical Emergency Response | 16 | lab | Students will demonstrate adult and child CPR with AED use, control of bleeding, and response to anaphylaxis and chemical-splash emergencies to the standard required for a recognized first-aid/CPR certification. |
| CPR manikins (adult, child, infant), AED trainer unit, first-aid kit with bandaging supplies, eye-wash station or portable eye-wash bottle, scenario cards, incident report blank forms, AHA Heartsaver student manual or equivalent | Students must pass the AHA Heartsaver (or equivalent) written and psychomotor skills test to receive the certification card; scenario drills scored pass/fail on a checklist requiring correct priority sequencing and all critical safety steps completed without prompting. |
| 3 | Trade Mathematics and Measurement for Cosmetology | 28 | theory | Students will accurately perform unit conversions between metric and US customary measurements, calculate percentage solutions for chemical services, and compute client billing totals including tax, tip, and commission without the use of a calculator. |
| Student math workbook (trade-specific), gram scale, measuring cups and graduated cylinders, mixing bowls, practice clay and water, sample service tickets, scientific calculator (for checking work only), ruler and tape measure | Scored written math quiz of 30 problems covering all four skill areas; students must achieve 80% or better to proceed; students scoring below 80% complete a targeted remediation worksheet and retest once within the same lesson block. |
| 4 | Technical Reading: SDS, Manufacturer Instructions, and State Rules | 20 | theory | Students will read and accurately extract procedural, safety, and legal information from three categories of technical documents—product SDS, manufacturer application guides, and a state board rules excerpt—and identify when a document requires escalation to a supervisor or licensed professional. |
| Printed SDS sheets, manufacturer perm and color application guides, state board rules excerpt (instructor-prepared redacted version), colored highlighters, client intake form templates, annotation guide handout | Students complete a 20-question reading-comprehension assessment drawing from all three document types; passing score is 80%; assessment includes at least two questions requiring the student to correctly identify a contraindication or scope-of-practice boundary. |
| 5 | Digital Tools and Professional Online Presence | 18 | demo | Students will create and correctly use a digital client record, book a simulated appointment in scheduling software, and demonstrate professional social-media conduct by applying the program's written social-media policy to sample posts. |
| Computers or tablets with internet access, demo login for a salon scheduling/client management platform, printed social-media policy, five sample post handout, projector for demonstration | Skills checklist completed by instructor during the platform activity requiring correct entry and retrieval of all required client fields and at least one error-free appointment booking; social-media post rewrite scored on a rubric—both rewrites must eliminate all policy violations to pass. |
| 6 | Communication, Client Relations, and Professional Ethics | 18 | practice | Students will conduct a structured client consultation using open and closed questioning, active listening, and reflective summary techniques, and apply the program's code of ethics to resolve a simulated professional-boundary scenario. |
| Role-play scripts (three scenarios), client consultation observation guide, peer feedback rubric, ethics vignette handout, interpreter phrase card, whiteboard for class debrief | Instructor evaluates each student's final role-play round on a 10-item consultation rubric (greeting, open question, closed question, active listening, contraindication screen, summary, professional language, boundary maintenance, closure, documentation); students must score 7 of 10 items as competent to pass. |
| 7 | Career Readiness and Portfolio Launch | 18 | practice | Students will produce a complete entry-level career portfolio including a formatted resume, a professional biography of 150 words or fewer, and a written personal code of ethics, and will demonstrate readiness to discuss the portfolio in a mock job interview. |
| Resume template (Word or Google Docs), portfolio folder or digital portfolio platform, model professional biography handout, mock interview question set, interview rubric, peer checklist for resume review | Portfolio scored on a rubric requiring: resume formatted with no spelling errors and all required sections present; biography within word limit with all three required elements; code of ethics contains at least five original statements; all three items must meet criteria to pass. Mock interview must score 3 of 5 items as competent. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OSHA 10 and Safety Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 70% or higher on the OSHA-authorized end-of-course assessment; 80% or higher on the program's supplemental salon-safety written exam | Students complete the OSHA 10 General Industry authorized assessment to earn the OSHA 10 completion card, then sit a 40-question program-written exam covering salon-specific chemical safety, SDS interpretation, PPE selection, and emergency response procedures. Both assessments must meet their respective pass marks; students who do not pass the program exam receive one retake opportunity after targeted review. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Trade Math and Technical Reading Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% or higher; any problem involving a chemical mixing ratio must be solved correctly—errors in that category require mandatory retake of that section regardless of overall score | A 50-question written exam covering unit conversion, percentage solutions, billing calculations, and comprehension questions drawn directly from sample SDS sheets and manufacturer instruction excerpts identical in format to those used in lessons. The chemical-ratio section is flagged critical because errors in chemical formulation directly affect client safety in later courses. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Career Portfolio Project | Project | 25% | All four portfolio components (resume, professional biography, code of ethics, and completed digital client record printout) must each score 80% or higher on their individual rubric sections; a single component below 80% requires revision and resubmission within one week | Students submit a complete career portfolio assembled across the course, evaluated by the instructor using a detailed rubric for professional formatting, accuracy, completeness, and alignment with the state scope of practice and professional ethics standards. The digital client record printout demonstrates mastery of the digital tools lesson and serves as evidence of data-entry competency. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Portfolio Defense Oral Presentation | Oral / panel | 25% | Student must score 'competent' on at least 4 of 5 rubric criteria; a score of 'not yet competent' on the safety or scope-of-practice criteria requires remediation and a second defense regardless of total score | In a 10-minute individual oral defense before the instructor and one peer evaluator, the student presents their portfolio, explains their personal code of ethics, responds to two scenario-based questions (one on chemical safety and one on a scope-of-practice boundary), and answers one impromptu question about how a cosmetology licensing exam area relates to content covered in this course. The defense simulates the professional accountability expected in a licensed practice setting. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
HLT-COSM32-02 Trade course
Hair Cutting, Color, and Chemical Services
138 hr · $1,985 COMPLIMENTARY
This course builds foundational and intermediate competency in haircutting geometry, hair color chemistry, and chemical texture services including relaxers and permanent waves. Students learn to analyze hair and scalp conditions, select appropriate products and techniques, and execute services safely while meeting the performance standards assessed on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
Outcomes- Perform at least four foundational haircuts—blunt, layered, graduated, and uniform—using correct sectioning, tension, and elevation, achieving a finished result that meets instructor rubric standards.
- Explain the chemistry of melanin, oxidative color, and developer volume, and select the correct formulation for a client consultation scenario with 80% accuracy on written assessments.
- Apply permanent wave and chemical relaxer services following manufacturer directions and OSHA Hazard Communication standards, demonstrating safe product handling and proper neutralization technique.
- Conduct a thorough hair and scalp analysis, identify contraindications to chemical services, and document a complete client record including patch-test results and release documentation.
- Demonstrate correct use and maintenance of cutting, thermal, and chemical tools, and pass a safety check on sanitization and disinfection of all implements used in this course.
- Map each major service type to the corresponding domain of the state cosmetology licensing examination and apply that knowledge in timed practice scenarios.
Course text
This course builds foundational and intermediate competency in haircutting geometry, hair color chemistry, and chemical texture services including relaxers and permanent waves. Students learn to analyze hair and scalp conditions, select appropriate products and techniques, and execute services safely while meeting the performance standards assessed on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Hair and Scalp Analysis and Client Consultation; Tools of the Trade: Implements, Maintenance, and Safety; Haircutting Geometry and Foundational Techniques; Advanced Haircutting: Graduation and Disconnection; Color Theory and Hair Color Chemistry; Haircolor Application: Allergy Testing, Formulation, and Technique; Highlighting and Lowlighting: Foil and Balayage Techniques; Permanent Wave Chemistry, Safety, and Application; Chemical Relaxers: Types, Safety, and Application; Thermal Styling: Blow Dry, Flat Iron, and Curling Iron; Scalp and Hair Treatments: Conditioning and Corrective Services; Licensing Exam Alignment: Practical Skills Integration and Timed Simulation.
What competent looks like. Perform at least four foundational haircuts—blunt, layered, graduated, and uniform—using correct sectioning, tension, and elevation, achieving a finished result that meets instructor rubric standards. Explain the chemistry of melanin, oxidative color, and developer volume, and select the correct formulation for a client consultation scenario with 80% accuracy on written assessments. Apply permanent wave and chemical relaxer services following manufacturer directions and OSHA Hazard Communication standards, demonstrating safe product handling and proper neutralization technique. Conduct a thorough hair and scalp analysis, identify contraindications to chemical services, and document a complete client record including patch-test results and release documentation. Demonstrate correct use and maintenance of cutting, thermal, and chemical tools, and pass a safety check on sanitization and disinfection of all implements used in this course. Map each major service type to the corresponding domain of the state cosmetology licensing examination and apply that knowledge in timed practice scenarios.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hair and Scalp Analysis and Client Consultation | 10 | theory | Students will classify hair by texture, porosity, elasticity, and density, identify common scalp conditions that are contraindications to chemical services, and complete a standardized client consultation card with 100% required fields filled accurately. |
| Hair swatch kit, magnifying lamp, blank client record cards, scalp condition photograph reference card, Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook (current edition), instructor consultation checklist | Instructor reviews completed consultation card for accuracy of all seven analysis fields; student must correctly categorize at least 8 of 10 scalp condition photographs to pass. |
| 2 | Tools of the Trade: Implements, Maintenance, and Safety | 8 | demo | Students will identify all standard haircutting and chemical-service implements by name and function, demonstrate correct cleaning, disinfection, and storage procedures, and verbally state the OSHA Hazard Communication requirement for SDS access in the salon. |
| Personal shear kit, wide-tooth and fine-tooth combs, perm rods (various sizes), SDS binder with waving lotion and relaxer sheets, disinfectant solution (barbicide-type), implement storage containers, implement diagram handout | Pass/fail skills checklist: student must demonstrate the full clean-and-disinfect sequence with zero steps omitted and correctly answer both SDS questions on the worksheet. |
| 3 | Haircutting Geometry and Foundational Techniques | 14 | lab | Students will execute a blunt (one-length) haircut and a uniform-layer haircut on a mannequin head, applying correct sectioning, parting, finger angle, elevation, and overdirection to achieve a line that passes a 90-degree corner check. |
| Mannequin heads on clamp stands, shears, wide-tooth and cutting combs, spray bottle, sectioning clips, Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook chapters on haircutting, instructor rubric | Instructor uses a ruler and comb to check the finished perimeter and interior layering for a level line (blunt) and consistent length throughout the interior (uniform layer); student passes if deviation is no more than one-eighth inch on the blunt cut. |
| 4 | Advanced Haircutting: Graduation and Disconnection | 12 | lab | Students will complete a graduated (wedge) haircut and a basic disconnected cut on mannequins, demonstrating intentional weight-line placement and clean perimeter detail in each style. |
| Mannequin heads, shears, texturizing shears, razor with guards, combs, sectioning clips, spray bottle, style reference photograph binder, instructor rubric | Instructor checks weight line position against the student's intended design sketch; both cuts receive a rubric score and student must earn at least 75% of available points on each to pass. |
| 5 | Color Theory and Hair Color Chemistry | 12 | theory | Students will explain the structure of the cortex as it relates to natural melanin and artificial pigment, differentiate between temporary, semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent color by mode of action, and select the correct developer volume for three given service goals with 80% accuracy. |
| Hair structure diagram handout, color level and tone chart, professional color manufacturer sample book, color wheel template, developer volume reference card, Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook chapters on haircoloring | Timed 20-question written quiz on color theory and chemistry; passing score is 80% (16 of 20 correct). |
| 6 | Haircolor Application: Allergy Testing, Formulation, and Technique | 14 | lab | Students will perform a predisposition (patch) test, mix a permanent oxidative color formula to the correct developer ratio, and apply a virgin single-process color to a mannequin using root-to-ends sequence, demonstrating even saturation and no scalp staining. |
| Professional oxidative color line, developers (10, 20, 30 volume), gram scale, color bowl and brush, timer, gloves, cape, plastic processing cap, color application checklist, patch test cards, mannequin heads, neutralizing shampoo, conditioner, SDS for color products | Instructor uses the application checklist; student must complete patch-test documentation correctly (pass/fail) and achieve even color saturation with no uncolored sections greater than one-quarter inch on the mannequin. |
| 7 | Highlighting and Lowlighting: Foil and Balayage Techniques | 10 | lab | Students will complete a partial-foil highlight application on a mannequin, placing at least twelve foils with consistent sectioning and clean color separation, and describe the difference between foil and freehand balayage technique as to appropriate use case. |
| Pre-cut foil sheets, lightener powder, developer (appropriate volume per manufacturer), color bowl and brush, rattail comb, sectioning clips, gloves, timer, balayage boards (optional), mannequin heads, placement diagram handout | Instructor counts foils, checks subsection consistency with a parting comb, and confirms clean color separation; student must place at least 12 foils with consistent subsection size (no greater than one-eighth inch variation) to pass. |
| 8 | Permanent Wave Chemistry, Safety, and Application | 14 | lab | Students will explain the breaking and re-forming of disulfide bonds during permanent waving, perform a test curl, and complete a full-head alkaline permanent wave on a mannequin including correct rod selection, winding tension, saturation, processing check, and neutralization. |
| Alkaline waving lotion, neutralizer, concave perm rods (various sizes), end papers, applicator bottle, timer, gloves, protective barrier cream, neutralizing shampoo, mannequin heads, SDS binder, Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook chapter on chemical texture services | Instructor evaluates the finished curl pattern against the target rod size and formulation, and reviews the student's test-curl documentation; student must demonstrate an intact, even curl pattern and a correctly completed test-curl record to pass. |
| 9 | Chemical Relaxers: Types, Safety, and Application | 12 | lab | Students will differentiate between hydroxide and thio relaxers by chemistry and application protocol, and safely perform a virgin hydroxide relaxer service on a mannequin including base application, processing, smooth-down, and neutralizing shampoo sequence. |
| Professional hydroxide relaxer (no-lye formulation for mannequin use), protective base cream, applicator brush, gloves, processing cape, timer, neutralizing shampoo, moisturizing conditioner, four-section clips, mannequin heads, SDS for relaxer product, comparison chart handout | Pass/fail checklist: student must apply base cream to the full perimeter before relaxer contact, complete all five neutralizing shampoo passes with correct timing, and leave no relaxer residue on the mannequin scalp surface. |
| 10 | Thermal Styling: Blow Dry, Flat Iron, and Curling Iron | 10 | practice | Students will safely operate blow-dryer, flat iron, and curling iron within the manufacturer's recommended temperature ranges for three hair texture categories, and produce a smooth blow-dry finish and a uniform wave pattern on mannequins without signs of heat damage. |
| Professional blow-dryer with diffuser and concentrator, round brush, paddle brush, flat iron, curling iron (at least two barrel sizes), heat protectant spray, sectioning clips, mannequin heads, heat-damage sample set, temperature guide reference card | Instructor checks finished blow-dry for smoothness (no frizz panels larger than one square inch) and finished curl set for consistent curl formation; student must achieve both benchmarks and demonstrate temperature setting within the appropriate range for the mannequin's simulated texture type. |
| 11 | Scalp and Hair Treatments: Conditioning and Corrective Services | 10 | theory | Students will select an appropriate conditioning treatment (protein, moisture, or scalp) for three given hair conditions, explain the purpose of each ingredient category, and describe the sequence for a corrective color or texture service when previous chemical services are present. |
| Product label set (three conditioning treatments), client case-study cards, conditioning treatment decision flowchart template, Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook chapters on scalp and hair care, whiteboard | Written scenario quiz: three client-case questions requiring product selection and rationale; student must select the correct product category and provide an accurate rationale for at least two of three cases to pass. |
| 12 | Licensing Exam Alignment: Practical Skills Integration and Timed Simulation | 12 | practice | Students will complete two timed practical service simulations—one haircut and one color or chemical service—that mirror the format, time limits, and evaluation criteria of the state cosmetology practical examination, earning a passing rubric score on both. |
| State practical exam domain outline (current version), timed exam rubric based on licensing exam criteria, mannequin heads, full chemical and cutting kit, timer, written feedback form | Student must earn at least 75% of rubric points on both timed simulations; any item marked as an automatic failure on the licensing exam rubric (e.g., failure to perform a patch test, failure to sanitize implements) results in a required remediation session before course completion. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Science and Service Chemistry Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% correct (40 of 50 questions) | A 50-question written examination covering hair and scalp anatomy, color chemistry, permanent wave and relaxer chemistry, developer selection, and contraindications; questions are written in the multiple-choice format used by state licensing written examinations and are mapped to the NIC exam content outline domains for haircoloring and chemical texture services. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Practical Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | 75% of rubric points on each of two services; no automatic-failure item triggered | Students perform one haircut service and one color or chemical texture service on a mannequin under timed, exam-simulation conditions; each service is scored by the instructor using a rubric aligned to state licensing practical exam criteria, and any step that constitutes an automatic failure on the licensing exam (such as omitting sanitation of implements or skipping a patch-test record) results in a required remediation and re-demonstration. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log and Client Record Portfolio | Log | 15% | Complete and accurate entries for all 12 lessons; no missing required fields; instructor signature on each entry | Students maintain a bound lab log throughout the course documenting every mannequin or partner service performed, including date, service type, product formula and developer volume used, processing time, result, and self-assessment notes; the log also contains all patch-test records, strand-test records, and client consultation cards completed during lab sessions, demonstrating thorough professional documentation habits required in licensed salon practice. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Chemical Service Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | Pass/fail; all critical safety steps must be performed correctly—no partial credit | Before being permitted to perform chemical services on live clients in the clinical practicum, each student must pass a direct-observation safety check in which the instructor verifies correct PPE selection and donning, SDS location and reading, predisposition test documentation, protective base cream application, product mixing at the correct ratio, processing time monitoring, and complete neutralization or neutralizing-shampoo sequence; any missed critical step results in a required remediation before the student may advance to live-client chemical services. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-03 Trade course
Skin: Anatomy, Analysis, Treatments & Safety
138 hr · $1,985 COMPLIMENTARY
This course covers the structure and physiology of the skin, scalp, and related glands as they apply to cosmetology services, including facial treatments, hair removal, and product chemistry. Students learn to analyze skin conditions, select appropriate products and techniques within their legal scope of practice, and perform services safely and professionally. Lesson content is mapped to the skin and scalp knowledge domains tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
Outcomes- Identify the layers, appendages, and functions of the skin and explain how common skin conditions affect service decisions.
- Perform a client skin analysis using visual assessment and a health intake form, and document findings accurately.
- Execute a basic facial treatment—including cleansing, exfoliation, massage, mask, and moisturizer application—following sanitation protocols and manufacturer directions.
- Demonstrate at least two hair-removal methods (waxing and threading or tweezing) safely and within cosmetology scope of practice.
- Explain the chemistry of common skin-care product categories—cleansers, toners, exfoliants, masks, SPF products—and match products to client skin types.
- Apply OSHA hazard-communication standards and infection-control procedures specific to skin services throughout every practical activity.
Course text
This course covers the structure and physiology of the skin, scalp, and related glands as they apply to cosmetology services, including facial treatments, hair removal, and product chemistry. Students learn to analyze skin conditions, select appropriate products and techniques within their legal scope of practice, and perform services safely and professionally. Lesson content is mapped to the skin and scalp knowledge domains tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Skin Anatomy and Physiology: Structure, Layers, and Functions; Skin Conditions, Disorders, and Scope of Practice; Skin-Care Product Chemistry: Ingredients, pH, and Safety; OSHA Hazard Communication and Infection Control for Skin Services; Client Consultation and Skin Analysis; Facial Massage: Techniques, Benefits, and Contraindications; Basic Facial Treatment: Full Procedure from Draping to Finish; Exfoliation Methods: Mechanical and Chemical—Principles and Application; Hair Removal: Waxing—Theory, Preparation, and Technique; Hair Removal: Tweezing and Threading—Technique and Safety; Scalp Treatments and Related Services; Skin Services Integration: Timed Practical Review and Licensing Exam Mapping.
What competent looks like. Identify the layers, appendages, and functions of the skin and explain how common skin conditions affect service decisions. Perform a client skin analysis using visual assessment and a health intake form, and document findings accurately. Execute a basic facial treatment—including cleansing, exfoliation, massage, mask, and moisturizer application—following sanitation protocols and manufacturer directions. Demonstrate at least two hair-removal methods (waxing and threading or tweezing) safely and within cosmetology scope of practice. Explain the chemistry of common skin-care product categories—cleansers, toners, exfoliants, masks, SPF products—and match products to client skin types. Apply OSHA hazard-communication standards and infection-control procedures specific to skin services throughout every practical activity.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skin Anatomy and Physiology: Structure, Layers, and Functions | 13 | theory | Students will correctly label the five layers of the epidermis, the dermis, the subcutaneous layer, and eight skin appendages on a diagram and state the function of each. |
| Standard cosmetology textbook (current edition, e.g., Milady Standard Cosmetology or Pivot Point Cosmetology), unlabeled skin-cross-section diagrams, projected histology images, structure-function card sets | Exit quiz of 20 matching/short-answer items on structures and functions; pass = 75% or higher |
| 2 | Skin Conditions, Disorders, and Scope of Practice | 12 | theory | Students will distinguish between skin conditions a cosmetologist may work with and contraindicated conditions that require medical referral, and give a rationale for each classification. |
| Textbook skin-disorders chapter, photo card set (from textbook resource kit or instructor-prepared), referral-script worksheet | Written classification quiz of 15 skin-condition photographs; students mark each and provide one-sentence rationale; pass = 80% correct classifications with acceptable rationale |
| 3 | Skin-Care Product Chemistry: Ingredients, pH, and Safety | 11 | theory | Students will categorize cleansers, toners, exfoliants, masks, serums, and moisturizers by primary active-ingredient category, explain the role of pH in product function, and identify OSHA-required SDS information for three sample products. |
| Assorted professional skin-care product samples (cleanser, toner, AHA exfoliant, clay mask, SPF moisturizer), pH test strips, printed SDS sheets for each product, ingredient-analysis worksheet | Completed ingredient-analysis worksheet graded against answer key; pass = 75% of ingredient/function/hazard items correct |
| 4 | OSHA Hazard Communication and Infection Control for Skin Services | 11 | theory | Students will describe the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requirements relevant to skin-care products, demonstrate correct SDS lookup, and explain the difference between sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization as applied to facial tools and implements. |
| OSHA Hazard Communication Standard summary handout, printed SDS sheets, decontamination decision chart worksheet, disinfectant solution (EPA-registered, per state board requirements), implement set for demo | Decontamination decision chart scored by instructor; pass = 100% correct decontamination level with acceptable justification (safety-critical, no partial credit on sterilization vs. disinfection errors) |
| 5 | Client Consultation and Skin Analysis | 13 | demo | Students will conduct a structured client consultation, complete a written intake and contraindication form, and accurately classify a model's skin type and primary skin condition using visual and tactile assessment. |
| Client intake/contraindication forms, magnifying lamp, Woods lamp (if available for educator demonstration only), treatment record forms, textbook consultation chapter | Completed consultation form evaluated by instructor on rubric covering accuracy of skin-type classification, completeness of contraindication screening, and professional documentation; pass = 80% rubric score |
| 6 | Facial Massage: Techniques, Benefits, and Contraindications | 12 | demo | Students will demonstrate the five classic massage movements—effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration—applied to the face and neck in correct sequence and with appropriate pressure. |
| Facial massage cream or oil (professional grade), treatment table or facial chair, clean towels and draping linens, gloves (available), instructor demonstration model | Instructor observational checklist of five movements during timed practice sequence; pass = all five movements performed in correct order with acceptable pressure and smooth transitions (checklist = 100% of movements attempted correctly) |
| 7 | Basic Facial Treatment: Full Procedure from Draping to Finish | 15 | lab | Students will perform a complete basic facial treatment—client draping, cleansing, toning, exfoliation, steam or warm-towel application, massage, mask, and moisturizer with SPF—in correct sequence and within a professional time frame. |
| Facial chair or treatment table, full facial product set (cleanser, toner, exfoliant, mask, SPF moisturizer), steamer or warm towels, applicator brushes, spatulas, gauze, gloves, draping linens, treatment-record cards, procedure checklist | Instructor rubric assessment of complete facial procedure covering sanitation, draping, sequence accuracy, product application, client communication, and treatment documentation; pass = 80% rubric score |
| 8 | Exfoliation Methods: Mechanical and Chemical—Principles and Application | 11 | lab | Students will correctly apply a mechanical exfoliant and a mild cosmetic-grade chemical exfoliant, state the mechanism of action for each, and identify the contraindications that would prevent use. |
| Professional scrub exfoliant, cosmetic-grade AHA product (low concentration, as sold for cosmetology use), SDS sheets for both products, pH strips, stopwatch, treatment-record forms, comparison-chart worksheet | Completed comparison chart plus instructor observation of application technique; pass = chart 75% accurate and both applications performed with correct timing and documented without errors |
| 9 | Hair Removal: Waxing—Theory, Preparation, and Technique | 15 | lab | Students will perform soft-wax and hard-wax hair-removal services on specified body areas (brow, lip, or leg) following correct temperature-check, application, and removal technique, and complete the full post-service protocol including soothing product application and implement sanitation. |
| Professional wax warmer, soft wax, hard wax, wax strips, wooden applicators (single-use), pre-wax cleanser, post-wax soothing oil or lotion, gloves, non-woven strips, SDS for wax products, thermometer | Instructor observational checklist: temperature verified, contraindication screen completed, correct directional technique, complete removal without skin lifting, post-service protocol followed; pass = all safety checkpoints met (temperature and contraindication steps are mandatory pass/fail gates) |
| 10 | Hair Removal: Tweezing and Threading—Technique and Safety | 8.5 | practice | Students will demonstrate correct tweezing and threading technique for eyebrow shaping, maintaining client comfort and achieving a defined, symmetrical shape within the client's stated preference. |
| Stainless-steel tweezers (one per student, disinfected), eyebrow-shaping practice pads or synthetic mannequin brows, threading cotton thread (pre-cut), brow brush and pencil for mapping, hand mirror, gloves | Instructor evaluation of completed brow shape on model using symmetry, client comfort, and correct removal-direction criteria; pass = satisfactory rating on all three criteria |
| 11 | Scalp Treatments and Related Services | 8.5 | practice | Students will assess a client's scalp condition, select an appropriate scalp treatment product, and perform a scalp massage and conditioning treatment following manufacturer directions and sanitation standards. |
| Assorted professional scalp-treatment products (clarifying, moisturizing, oil-balancing), treatment record forms, scalp assessment form, product menu handout, cape and draping towels, gloves | Completed scalp-assessment form scored by instructor for accuracy; scalp-treatment procedure evaluated on massage technique and adherence to manufacturer timing; pass = 75% on assessment accuracy and all timed steps completed correctly |
| 12 | Skin Services Integration: Timed Practical Review and Licensing Exam Mapping | 8 | practice | Students will complete a timed full facial or waxing service to simulated board-exam conditions and correctly answer written questions mapped to the skin-knowledge domains of the state cosmetology licensing examination. |
| Service-draw cards, standardized practical rubric, sample written items from NIC Candidate Handbook content outline (skin/scalp domain), timer, full service setup for facial and waxing stations, self-study plan template | Timed practical scored on standardized rubric: pass = 80%; written domain review: pass = 75% correct; both components must be passed to satisfy the lesson check |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Science Knowledge Examination | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (38 of 50 items correct) | A 50-item written examination covering skin anatomy and physiology, common skin and scalp conditions, product chemistry and ingredient categories, pH, OSHA hazard-communication requirements, and scope-of-practice decisions. Items are written in the multiple-choice format used on the NIC-based state cosmetology licensing examination, and content is mapped to the skin/scalp domain of that exam. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Practical Skills Demonstration: Facial Treatment and Hair Removal | Skills demonstration | 45% | 80% overall rubric score; all designated safety checkpoints must be passed with no exceptions | Students perform a complete basic facial treatment and one hair-removal service (waxing of an assigned area) on a live model within a set time limit, evaluated by the instructor on a standardized rubric that mirrors state board practical assessment criteria. The rubric covers client consultation and contraindication screening, sanitation and disinfection, draping, correct procedure sequence, product selection, technique, client communication, and post-service documentation. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Procedure Log | Log | 15% | All 10 required service entries submitted with complete documentation; average rubric quality score of 75% or higher across entries | Students maintain a cumulative lab log containing a completed treatment-record card for each of the ten supervised practical activities in this course, documenting the client's skin type, products used with rationale, observations, and recommended home care. Each entry is reviewed and signed by the instructor at the conclusion of the lab session; incomplete or undated entries are not accepted. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Infection Control and Chemical Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on all safety-critical steps; no partial credit is awarded for errors involving chemical handling, PPE, or decontamination level | A direct observation and oral-questioning assessment in which the instructor presents three scenarios—a contaminated facial implement, a chemical product with a missing label, and a client with a contraindicated skin condition—and the student must respond with the correct action, locate the relevant SDS information, and demonstrate proper decontamination or disposal procedure without prompting. This assessment must be passed before the student may proceed to unsupervised clinical practicum hours involving skin services. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-04 Trade course
Nail Technology: Structure, Services, and Safety
138 hr · $1,985 COMPLIMENTARY
This course covers the anatomy of the nail unit, essential nail services including manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and nail art, with continuous emphasis on infection control, chemical safety, and client consultation. Students apply trade math for product mixing and service timing, use digital tools for client records, and map every skill to the state licensing exam competency areas. Safe, professional, scope-appropriate practice is the standard throughout.
Outcomes- Identify the structures of the nail unit and describe how common nail disorders and diseases affect service decisions and referral requirements.
- Perform a complete manicure and pedicure following infection-control protocols that meet state board standards for sanitation and disinfection.
- Apply at least two nail enhancement systems (acrylic and gel) correctly, demonstrating safe product handling per SDS guidelines.
- Calculate product ratios, service pricing, and appointment timing using trade math appropriate to nail services.
- Maintain accurate digital client records and consultation cards that meet professional and regulatory documentation standards.
- Recognize conditions that are outside the scope of cosmetology practice and articulate the correct referral pathway.
Course text
This course covers the anatomy of the nail unit, essential nail services including manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and nail art, with continuous emphasis on infection control, chemical safety, and client consultation. Students apply trade math for product mixing and service timing, use digital tools for client records, and map every skill to the state licensing exam competency areas. Safe, professional, scope-appropriate practice is the standard throughout.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Nail Anatomy, Physiology, and the Scope of Practice; Chemical Safety, SDS Literacy, and OSHA Standards for Nail Services; Infection Control for Nail Services: Sanitation, Disinfection, and Sterilization; Basic Manicure: Procedure, Product Selection, and Client Communication; Pedicure Services: Procedures, Equipment Safety, and Contraindications; Nail Polish, Nail Art, and Gel Polish Application; Acrylic Nail Enhancements: Chemistry, Ratios, and Application; Hard Gel and Soft Gel (Soak-Off) Enhancements; Nail Enhancement Maintenance, Backfill, and Safe Removal; Trade Math for Nail Services: Pricing, Ratios, and Time Management; Digital Client Records, Consultation, and Professional Communication; State Board Examination Preparation: Nail Services Written and Practical Review.
What competent looks like. Identify the structures of the nail unit and describe how common nail disorders and diseases affect service decisions and referral requirements. Perform a complete manicure and pedicure following infection-control protocols that meet state board standards for sanitation and disinfection. Apply at least two nail enhancement systems (acrylic and gel) correctly, demonstrating safe product handling per SDS guidelines. Calculate product ratios, service pricing, and appointment timing using trade math appropriate to nail services. Maintain accurate digital client records and consultation cards that meet professional and regulatory documentation standards. Recognize conditions that are outside the scope of cosmetology practice and articulate the correct referral pathway.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nail Anatomy, Physiology, and the Scope of Practice | 11 | theory | Students will correctly identify and describe the function of each structure of the nail unit and distinguish between conditions a cosmetologist may service and those requiring medical referral. |
| Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook (current edition), nail-unit anatomy diagrams, laminated photo card set of nail disorders and diseases, blank client consultation forms, colored pencils | Written label quiz on nail anatomy scored at 80% or higher; correct categorization of at least 27 of 30 photo cards with written justification accepted by instructor. |
| 2 | Chemical Safety, SDS Literacy, and OSHA Standards for Nail Services | 13 | theory | Students will locate and interpret Safety Data Sheets for common nail chemicals and demonstrate safe storage, ventilation, and personal-protective-equipment practices in compliance with OSHA Hazard Communication standards. |
| Printed SDS sheets for at least four nail chemicals, OSHA Hazard Communication quick-reference guide, nitrile gloves (various sizes), safety glasses, spill-kit supplies (absorbent material, sealable waste bag), incident report forms | SDS worksheet scored at 80% or higher; spill-drill performance checklist completed with all critical safety steps observed by instructor; no critical steps (glove/eye protection donned before contact) missed. |
| 3 | Infection Control for Nail Services: Sanitation, Disinfection, and Sterilization | 13 | lab | Students will execute the complete pre-service and post-service disinfection procedure for nail implements and multi-use surfaces according to state board standards. |
| Nail implements (nippers, cuticle pushers, nail files—single-use and multi-use), EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant (manufacturer-labeled), clean towels, covered implement storage containers, foot spa basin, timer, lab log binder, state board sanitation checklist | All critical steps on the state board sanitation checklist observed and logged with correct timing; zero critical errors (e.g., skipping immersion, incorrect contact time); lab log entry complete and signed by instructor. |
| 4 | Basic Manicure: Procedure, Product Selection, and Client Communication | 15 | demo | Students will demonstrate a complete basic manicure—consultation, pre-service setup, nail shaping, cuticle care, hand massage, and polish application—meeting state board practical exam standards. |
| Mannequin hands, manicure table and lamp, nail files (various grits), cuticle nippers, pushers, orangewood sticks, base coat, nail polish (assorted colors), top coat, hand lotion, finger bowl, nail polish remover, cotton pads, client consultation form, state board practical exam criteria sheet | State board practical criteria checklist: all procedural steps completed in correct order, nail shape matches client request, polish smooth and free of flooding cuticle; scored pass/fail with 80% of criteria marked 'met.' |
| 5 | Pedicure Services: Procedures, Equipment Safety, and Contraindications | 13 | practice | Students will perform a complete pedicure service including foot soak, nail trimming, callus reduction, and massage, applying contraindication screening and foot-spa disinfection procedures correctly. |
| Pedicure basin or pipeless foot spa, EPA-registered disinfectant, toenail clippers, nail files, cuticle tools, callus file or paddle, foot lotion, towels, disposable basin liners, nitrile gloves, client intake/screening form, state board pedicure protocol reference sheet | Instructor observation checklist: correct contraindication screening demonstrated, nail shape and length within state board guidelines, foot-spa disinfection log complete with correct product and contact time; 80% of checklist items met with no critical safety errors. |
| 6 | Nail Polish, Nail Art, and Gel Polish Application | 11 | practice | Students will apply traditional nail polish, gel polish, and a basic nail art design—demonstrating correct curing protocol, product layer sequence, and client safety precautions for UV/LED exposure. |
| LED nail lamp (with manufacturer spec sheet), gel base coat, gel color polish, gel top coat, alcohol wipes, lint-free wipes, nail tips and tip display ring, dotting tools, nail stamping plates and scraper, nail foils, nail polish (traditional), dotting tools, nail art rubric | Gel application evaluated on a four-point rubric (adhesion, coverage, cure completeness, finish); minimum score of 3 on each criterion; curing times documented correctly in lab log; safety counseling peer evaluation marked 'complete' on all required topics. |
| 7 | Acrylic Nail Enhancements: Chemistry, Ratios, and Application | 15 | lab | Students will mix acrylic monomer and polymer at the correct liquid-to-powder ratio and apply a full set of acrylic nail enhancements demonstrating proper bead consistency, zone placement, and filing technique. |
| Acrylic monomer liquid, acrylic polymer powder (clear and pink), Dappen dish, acrylic brush, digital scale, nail tips (assorted sizes), nail glue, 100/180-grit files, buffing block, C-curve gauge, dust mask (N95 or equivalent), nitrile gloves, safety glasses, mannequin hand, lab worksheet | Instructor evaluation using a zone-application rubric: correct bead consistency (medium bead that releases from brush cleanly), zone placement accurate, surface smooth with no lifting at cuticle area, C-curve visible; minimum pass: 3 of 4 rubric criteria met with no chemical-safety violations observed. |
| 8 | Hard Gel and Soft Gel (Soak-Off) Enhancements | 11 | lab | Students will apply both a hard gel overlay and a soft gel (soak-off) enhancement, correctly distinguishing removal procedures and explaining the structural and chemical differences between the two systems to a client. |
| Hard builder gel, soak-off gel color system, LED lamp, gel brush, 100/180-grit files, buffer, acetone, cotton pads, aluminum foil, orangewood sticks, lint-free wipes, SDS sheets for both gel products, comparison chart worksheet, lab log | Lab log complete with cure times and product information; instructor evaluates gel overlay for full cure (no tacky inhibition layer visible after wipe), even thickness, and smooth finish; removal assessed: nail plate shows no visible file damage; all criteria must be met to pass. |
| 9 | Nail Enhancement Maintenance, Backfill, and Safe Removal | 11 | practice | Students will perform a two-to-three-week maintenance fill on a set of acrylic nails, including backfill technique where indicated, and execute a safe soak-off removal without mechanical damage to the natural nail. |
| Mannequin hands with pre-applied cured acrylic sets, acrylic product system, files (100/180 grit), buffer, nail primer (if indicated by product system), acetone, cotton pads, aluminum foil, orangewood stick, cuticle oil, camera or phone for documentation, service record card | Service record card completed with pre-service assessment and plan; instructor evaluates finished fill for smooth blend, balanced shape, and smile-line consistency; post-removal nail plate assessed—no grooves or thinning attributed to improper technique; pass requires all three criteria met. |
| 10 | Trade Math for Nail Services: Pricing, Ratios, and Time Management | 8.5 | theory | Students will accurately calculate product costs per service, set competitive retail and service prices using a markup formula, and schedule a realistic daily appointment book using standard service times. |
| Trade math worksheet packet (instructor-prepared with realistic product prices), calculator, appointment book template, product cost reference sheet, pencil | Math worksheet scored at 80% or higher with all cost-per-service calculations showing correct process steps; scheduling simulation evaluated by instructor for zero double-bookings and realistic time allocation. |
| 11 | Digital Client Records, Consultation, and Professional Communication | 8.5 | field | Students will create and manage a complete digital client record—including intake, allergy/health screening, service history, and retail recommendations—and conduct a professional consultation that meets documentation standards. |
| Salon management software demo login or spreadsheet client record template, client intake scenarios (printed), sample flawed client record for audit exercise, laptop or tablet, consultation scripting guide | Digital record for both scenarios fully complete with no missing required fields; allergy flag consultation evaluated by instructor—alternative service proposed is appropriate and contraindication correctly documented; audit identifies a minimum of four of five planted errors to pass. |
| 12 | State Board Examination Preparation: Nail Services Written and Practical Review | 8 | theory | Students will identify the nail-services competency areas on the state licensing (NIC-based) exam, answer practice written questions at or above the passing benchmark, and self-evaluate their practical skills against state board criteria. |
| NIC candidate information bulletin (current, downloaded from NIC website) or state board equivalent, 50-question written practice exam (instructor-prepared), answer key, state board practical criteria sheet replica, mannequin hand, full manicure setup | Written practice exam score of 75% or higher required; practical self-evaluation checklist completed for all steps; written reflection submitted identifying two specific remediation actions; students scoring below 75% on written exam receive targeted review before the course summative assessment. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nail Services Written Knowledge Examination | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (38 of 50 questions) | A 50-question multiple-choice examination covering nail anatomy and physiology, nail disorders and contraindications, infection control and disinfection procedures, chemical safety and SDS interpretation, nail enhancement chemistry, trade math, and scope-of-practice decision-making, mapped directly to NIC written exam content areas. Students who do not pass on the first attempt receive one retake opportunity after a documented remediation session with the instructor. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| State Board–Style Practical Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical safety and sanitation steps must be met; 80% of total criteria points earned | Students perform a complete basic manicure and a gel polish application on a live model, evaluated by an instructor using a criteria sheet modeled on the state board practical examination format, covering pre-service setup and sanitation, client consultation and documentation, procedural sequence, product application quality, and post-service disinfection. Any critical error (failure to disinfect implements, skipping contraindication screening, or chemical-safety violation) results in an automatic fail regardless of total score, and the student must remediate and re-demonstrate that section. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | 100% of required entries present and complete; average instructor rating of 'meets standard' or higher across all entries | Students submit their compiled lab log binder containing dated entries for every lab and practice session throughout the course, including disinfection records with product names and contact times, acrylic ratio observations, gel cure times, maintenance service documentation, and client record screenshots or printouts. Each entry must include the student's name, date, service or procedure performed, products used, and the instructor's initials confirming the observation; incomplete or undated entries are returned for correction before the portfolio is accepted. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Chemical Safety and Infection Control Check | Safety audit | 15% | Zero critical errors; 100% of required safety steps demonstrated correctly | An unannounced or minimally announced live safety check in which the instructor observes the student setting up for a nail enhancement service, verifying that the student correctly dons PPE before handling enhancement chemicals, verifies ventilation, locates the SDS for the product in use, and executes the post-service implement disinfection sequence with correct timing and documentation. This is a pass/fail assessment with no partial credit; any critical error (failure to use gloves with acrylic monomer, incorrect disinfectant contact time, or inability to locate the SDS) requires an immediate remediation and a re-check before the student continues with enhancement services on live models. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-05 Trade course
Infection Control and Sanitation for Cosmetology
138 hr · $1,985 COMPLIMENTARY
This course covers the microbiology, chemical science, and regulatory framework behind infection control in salon environments, equipping students to maintain legally compliant, safe workspaces. Students master disinfection and sterilization procedures, proper handling and disposal of chemicals and sharps, and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen standards as they apply to cosmetology practice. Lesson content maps directly to the infection control and safety competency areas tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
Outcomes- Classify microorganisms by type and explain how each is transmitted and controlled in a salon setting
- Select and correctly apply EPA-registered disinfectants at manufacturer-required concentrations and contact times for tools, surfaces, and equipment
- Demonstrate compliant salon sanitation workflows—cleaning, disinfecting, and storing implements—meeting state board standards without prompting
- Identify OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen exposure risks in cosmetology and execute the correct post-exposure and spill-response procedures
- Read and apply Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to select appropriate personal protective equipment and manage chemical storage and disposal lawfully
- Document sanitation procedures accurately in a salon log and recognize conditions that require refusal of service to protect client and worker safety
Course text
This course covers the microbiology, chemical science, and regulatory framework behind infection control in salon environments, equipping students to maintain legally compliant, safe workspaces. Students master disinfection and sterilization procedures, proper handling and disposal of chemicals and sharps, and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen standards as they apply to cosmetology practice. Lesson content maps directly to the infection control and safety competency areas tested on the state cosmetology licensing examination.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Microbiology Foundations: What Lives in the Salon; Levels of Decontamination: Sanitization, Disinfection, and Sterilization; EPA-Registered Disinfectants: Chemistry, Mixing, and Contact Time; OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard in the Salon; Safety Data Sheets and Chemical Safety in the Salon; Personal Protective Equipment: Selection, Use, and Limits; Implement Cleaning and Disinfection Workflow: Combs, Brushes, and Metal Tools; Surface Disinfection and Salon Environment Control; Single-Use Items, Sharps Safety, and Regulated Waste Disposal; Recognizing Contraindications and Refusal of Service; State Board Sanitation Rules and Inspection Readiness; Integrated Sanitation Practicum: Full Client-Service Simulation.
What competent looks like. Classify microorganisms by type and explain how each is transmitted and controlled in a salon setting. Select and correctly apply EPA-registered disinfectants at manufacturer-required concentrations and contact times for tools, surfaces, and equipment. Demonstrate compliant salon sanitation workflows—cleaning, disinfecting, and storing implements—meeting state board standards without prompting. Identify OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen exposure risks in cosmetology and execute the correct post-exposure and spill-response procedures. Read and apply Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to select appropriate personal protective equipment and manage chemical storage and disposal lawfully. Document sanitation procedures accurately in a salon log and recognize conditions that require refusal of service to protect client and worker safety.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microbiology Foundations: What Lives in the Salon | 11 | theory | Students will classify bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites by structure and infection risk, and explain the chain of infection as it applies to salon services. |
| Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook (current edition), photomicrograph handouts, chain-of-infection card sets, whiteboard | 10-question multiple-choice quiz on pathogen classification and chain of infection; pass mark 70%; instructor reviews each missed item before next lesson |
| 2 | Levels of Decontamination: Sanitization, Disinfection, and Sterilization | 11 | theory | Students will differentiate sanitization, disinfection, and sterilization by definition, required agent, and appropriate application in a licensed salon. |
| Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook, sample product labels (or color photocopies), blank decision-tree templates, EPA List N reference sheet | Written scenario worksheet graded by instructor rubric; students must correctly classify at least 10 of 12 scenarios (83%) to advance to lab lessons |
| 3 | EPA-Registered Disinfectants: Chemistry, Mixing, and Contact Time | 13 | lab | Students will prepare EPA-registered disinfectant solutions at correct dilutions, verify concentration with test strips where applicable, and identify conditions that render a solution ineffective. |
| Quat disinfectant concentrate, hospital-grade phenolic disinfectant, household bleach, graduated cylinders, quat test strips, goggles, nitrile gloves, aprons, mixing containers, mock salon log forms, SDS sheets for each product | Instructor observes each student's PPE use, mixing technique, and strip-reading; student must achieve correct concentration (within manufacturer's acceptable range per strip) for all three solutions and complete the log correctly to pass; any PPE omission is an automatic repeat |
| 4 | OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard in the Salon | 11 | theory | Students will explain the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard requirements relevant to cosmetology, including exposure determination, standard precautions, and post-exposure procedure. |
| OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard reference summary (OSHA publication), Milady textbook chapter, scenario handout, sample Exposure Control Plan template | 15-item written quiz on OSHA definitions, standard precautions, and post-exposure steps; pass mark 80%; students scoring below repeat with targeted remediation before the skills demo unit |
| 5 | Safety Data Sheets and Chemical Safety in the Salon | 11 | theory | Students will locate and interpret all 16 sections of an SDS for salon chemicals and select the correct PPE and storage conditions for each chemical class. |
| Printed SDS for at least four common salon products, blank 16-section SDS annotation worksheet, PPE pictogram cards, salon floor-plan handout, OSHA HazCom standard summary | Students must correctly complete SDS annotation with at least 14 of 16 sections accurately interpreted; PPE matching scored at 5 of 6 correct; storage exercise must identify all five violations; instructor initials student work before lab sessions |
| 6 | Personal Protective Equipment: Selection, Use, and Limits | 8.5 | demo | Students will don, use, and doff nitrile gloves, protective eyewear, and chemical-resistant aprons in the correct sequence without contaminating themselves or the work area. |
| Nitrile gloves (multiple sizes), chemical splash goggles, face shields, chemical-resistant aprons, donning/doffing checklist, simulated blood (red food-coloring solution), paper towels, disinfectant spray | Instructor uses a 10-step donning/doffing checklist; student must complete all 10 steps in correct sequence with zero self-contamination events to pass; any contamination event requires full repeat demonstration |
| 7 | Implement Cleaning and Disinfection Workflow: Combs, Brushes, and Metal Tools | 15 | practice | Students will execute the complete two-step clean-then-disinfect workflow for porous and non-porous salon implements, completing each step within state-board time requirements and documenting results on a salon log. |
| Combs, brushes, metal clips, shears (training tools), dish soap, scrub brushes, quat disinfectant solution, tongs, covered disinfectant container, clean covered storage container, salon sanitation log forms, timer | Instructor checklist with 12 procedural steps; student must complete all 12 correctly, achieve confirmed disinfectant concentration, and have an accurately completed log entry; pass mark is 100% of critical safety steps (no shortcuts on contact time or pre-cleaning) and 10 of 12 total steps |
| 8 | Surface Disinfection and Salon Environment Control | 11 | practice | Students will disinfect workstation surfaces, shampoo bowls, styling chairs, and reception area contact points using correct products and techniques between each client service. |
| Mock workstation (chair, counter, shampoo bowl), EPA-registered spray disinfectant, paper towels, clean and soiled linens, single-use items (neck strips, cotton), trash receptacle, surface inspection checklist | Competency checklist with 15 items covering disposal, surface coverage, dwell time, and linen management; student must score 13 of 15 (87%) and must not skip dwell time on any surface; retake required if dwell time step is missed |
| 9 | Single-Use Items, Sharps Safety, and Regulated Waste Disposal | 11 | theory | Students will identify which salon items must be single-use, demonstrate safe handling and disposal of sharps (razor blades, lancets), and describe compliant disposal of regulated waste generated in a salon. |
| List of single-use and reusable items handout, single-use sharps (wrapped new razor blades for training), puncture-resistant sharps container, sample empty chemical containers, regulated waste scenario handout, state board reference for waste rules | Single-use classification scored at 18 of 20 correct; sharps disposal observed and passed only if one-hand technique is used correctly with no re-cap; waste scenario scored at 4 of 5 correct; any sharps safety error requires full repeat |
| 10 | Recognizing Contraindications and Refusal of Service | 13 | demo | Students will identify visible skin, scalp, and nail conditions that require refusal of service, and communicate the refusal professionally and within their scope of practice without diagnosing. |
| Clinical photograph set (licensed images from Milady or equivalent textbook resource), photo-sort cards, role-play scenario cards, instructor rubric for professional communication | Photo-card sort: student must correctly classify at least 17 of 20 cards; all 'refusal required' cards involving open lesions or active infections must be classified correctly (no partial credit on those); role-play assessed on a 5-point professional communication rubric, minimum score 4 of 5 |
| 11 | State Board Sanitation Rules and Inspection Readiness | 13 | field | Students will apply their state's cosmetology sanitation regulations to conduct a self-inspection of a mock salon, identify all violations, and prepare a corrective action log. |
| State board sanitation rules publication (current edition), mock salon lab with pre-set violations, state-board-style inspection checklist, corrective action log forms | Students must identify at least 8 of 10 violations on the inspection checklist; corrective action log must have a complete, accurate entry for each violation found; oral report assessed on accuracy and clarity; instructor must confirm the two highest-risk violations (if present: unlabeled chemical, no SDS) are found or the activity is repeated |
| 12 | Integrated Sanitation Practicum: Full Client-Service Simulation | 9.5 | lab | Students will execute all required sanitation and infection control steps before, during, and after a complete simulated client service, maintaining documentation throughout and meeting state board standards from start to finish. |
| Full workstation setup, mannequin head, full implement set (combs, clips, brushes, shears), disinfectant solution, simulated blood (red food coloring), single-use items, sharps container, salon sanitation log, state-board inspection checklist | Instructor uses a 25-step integrated checklist covering pre-service, mid-service response, and post-service; student must score 23 of 25 steps and must score 100% on all blood-exposure and sharps steps; log must be fully and accurately completed; any incomplete log or missed exposure response step requires a full repeat of this lesson |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infection Control Knowledge Examination | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (45 of 60 items correct) | A 60-item multiple-choice examination covering microbiology, levels of decontamination, disinfectant chemistry, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen requirements, SDS interpretation, single-use rules, contraindications, and state board sanitation regulations, aligned to the infection control competency domain of the state cosmetology licensing exam. Students who score below 75% complete targeted remediation and retake an alternate form within one week. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Sanitation Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical safety steps scored 'pass'; overall checklist score of 90% or higher | The student performs the complete pre-service, mid-service, and post-service sanitation workflow for a simulated hair service on a mannequin, evaluated by the instructor using a 30-step state-board-style competency checklist; critical safety steps (PPE use, correct disinfectant concentration and contact time, bloodborne pathogen response, and sharps disposal) are graded as pass/fail with no partial credit, and any single critical-step failure requires a full retake. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Sanitation Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | All 12 required log entries present, dated, and complete; instructor signature on each; no missing EPA registration numbers or contact times | Students maintain a sanitation lab log throughout the course documenting every disinfectant preparation, implement processing session, and surface disinfection drill, including product name, EPA registration number, dilution ratio, solution preparation time, contact time achieved, and student initials; the completed portfolio is reviewed at course end and must reflect accurate, contemporaneous record-keeping consistent with state board documentation expectations. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on all items marked 'critical'; 90% overall | A practical walk-through assessment in which the instructor presents the student with a mock salon in an unknown state of preparation and asks the student to independently identify any sanitation, chemical safety, or OSHA compliance violations and take or describe corrective action; items marked 'critical' (open chemical containers, unlabeled hazardous substances, exposed sharps, and contaminated implements stored with clean ones) must all be identified correctly for the student to pass the course. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-06 Trade course
Salon Business: Operations, Finance, and Client Management
138 hr · $1,985 COMPLIMENTARY
This course prepares cosmetology students to operate, manage, and succeed in a professional salon environment, covering business planning, financial literacy, client relations, retail sales, employment law, and professional ethics. Students apply trade mathematics and digital tools to real salon scenarios, building the practical business skills needed to work as an employee, booth renter, or salon owner. Lessons align with the business and professional-practice content areas tested on state cosmetology licensing examinations administered under the NIC framework.
Outcomes- Construct a written salon business plan that includes a service menu with pricing, a projected startup budget, and a basic marketing strategy.
- Apply salon math skills—including percentage calculations for retail markup, commission, tip reporting, and sales tax—accurately to at least 90% of practice problems.
- Demonstrate professional client-intake, consultation, and rebooking procedures that meet industry standards for communication and record-keeping.
- Explain the legal and ethical obligations of a licensed cosmetologist, including scope of practice, booth-rental agreements, independent-contractor status, and employer–employee relationships.
- Use standard salon software or digital tools to schedule appointments, track inventory, and generate a basic financial report.
- Identify and correctly apply federal and state workplace requirements—including OSHA Hazard Communication standards and general employment law concepts—within a salon business context.
Course text
This course prepares cosmetology students to operate, manage, and succeed in a professional salon environment, covering business planning, financial literacy, client relations, retail sales, employment law, and professional ethics. Students apply trade mathematics and digital tools to real salon scenarios, building the practical business skills needed to work as an employee, booth renter, or salon owner. Lessons align with the business and professional-practice content areas tested on state cosmetology licensing examinations administered under the NIC framework.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: The Salon Industry Landscape: Business Models and Career Paths; Salon Math: Pricing, Commission, Markup, and Sales Tax; Building a Service Menu and Retail Pricing Strategy; Client Records, Consultation, and Intake Procedures; Appointment Scheduling, Retention, and Rebooking Strategies; Retail Sales, Inventory Management, and Upselling Ethics; Marketing Basics: Social Media, Branding, and Local Outreach; Employment Law Essentials: Hiring, Wages, and Workplace Rights; Professional Ethics, Scope of Practice, and Client Safety; OSHA Hazard Communication in the Salon: SDS, Labeling, and Chemical Safety; Salon Business Plan: Startup Costs, Break-Even, and Financial Projections; Integrated Salon Business Simulation and Credential Exam Review.
What competent looks like. Construct a written salon business plan that includes a service menu with pricing, a projected startup budget, and a basic marketing strategy. Apply salon math skills—including percentage calculations for retail markup, commission, tip reporting, and sales tax—accurately to at least 90% of practice problems. Demonstrate professional client-intake, consultation, and rebooking procedures that meet industry standards for communication and record-keeping. Explain the legal and ethical obligations of a licensed cosmetologist, including scope of practice, booth-rental agreements, independent-contractor status, and employer–employee relationships. Use standard salon software or digital tools to schedule appointments, track inventory, and generate a basic financial report. Identify and correctly apply federal and state workplace requirements—including OSHA Hazard Communication standards and general employment law concepts—within a salon business context.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Salon Industry Landscape: Business Models and Career Paths | 10 | theory | Students will compare the major salon business models—commission employee, hourly employee, booth renter, independent contractor, and salon owner—and articulate the legal, financial, and professional differences among them. |
| Milady Standard Cosmetology (current edition), IRS Publication 1779 (Independent Contractor or Employee), whiteboard, comparison-chart worksheets, student notebooks | Completed comparison chart graded on a rubric (accuracy of legal distinctions, completeness, clarity); minimum score 80/100 to advance. |
| 2 | Salon Math: Pricing, Commission, Markup, and Sales Tax | 14 | theory | Students will accurately calculate service pricing, commission earnings, retail product markup, and sales tax using standard cosmetology business formulas, achieving at least 85% on a graded problem set. |
| Calculator, percentage-formula reference card, printed problem sets, Milady Standard Cosmetology business math chapter, whiteboard with worked examples | Graded problem set and quiz averaged together; student must score ≥85% on combined score; errors in sales-tax or commission formulas flagged for mandatory retake of those sections. |
| 3 | Building a Service Menu and Retail Pricing Strategy | 10 | lab | Students will design a complete, professionally formatted salon service menu with competitive prices based on local market research, cost-of-goods analysis, and desired profit margin. |
| Computer or tablet with internet access, Canva or Microsoft Word, cost-of-goods worksheets, local salon price research data, calculator, printer | Service menu evaluated on rubric: market-research documentation complete, all prices mathematically justified, professional formatting, minimum 12 services listed; pass ≥80/100. |
| 4 | Client Records, Consultation, and Intake Procedures | 10 | demo | Students will conduct a structured client consultation using a written intake form, accurately recording health history, allergy disclosures, and service goals in compliance with client-confidentiality standards. |
| Client intake forms (printed and digital), salon software demo account, Milady consultation and client-relations chapter, observation checklist, pens | Observation checklist must show all required consultation steps performed; completed intake form checked for accuracy of data entry; instructor rates each student ≥Satisfactory (3/4) on communication and record accuracy. |
| 5 | Appointment Scheduling, Retention, and Rebooking Strategies | 8 | practice | Students will build and manage a simulated one-week appointment book, apply rebooking scripts, and calculate the revenue impact of a 20% increase in client retention. |
| Paper appointment grid, salon software demo account, rebooking script framework, retention math worksheet, calculator, Milady business chapter | Error-free appointment book (zero double-bookings); rebooking role-play rated ≥3/4 by instructor; retention math calculation correct within rounding; all three components must pass to receive credit. |
| 6 | Retail Sales, Inventory Management, and Upselling Ethics | 10 | lab | Students will apply an ethical needs-based retail selling process, track product inventory using a running count sheet, and calculate reorder points for three salon product categories. |
| Simulated retail product shelf, inventory count sheets, perpetual-inventory log, retail sales tickets, client scenario cards, reorder-point formula reference, calculator | Inventory variance report must identify all planted discrepancies (100% required); retail needs-based pitch rated ≥3/4 on ethics rubric (no unsubstantiated claims); reorder-point calculations correct ≥85%. |
| 7 | Marketing Basics: Social Media, Branding, and Local Outreach | 10 | practice | Students will create a professional social-media profile and a 30-day content calendar for a fictional salon, applying brand-consistency principles and platform best practices. |
| Computer or tablet, Canva, brand-evaluation checklist, content calendar template, Instagram/Facebook (for research only), Milady marketing chapter | Content calendar graded on rubric: minimum 12 posts, variety of content types, brand consistency, professional language; score ≥80/100 to pass. |
| 8 | Employment Law Essentials: Hiring, Wages, and Workplace Rights | 12 | theory | Students will identify the key federal and state employment law concepts that apply to salon workers—including at-will employment, minimum wage, tip reporting, FLSA basics, and anti-discrimination protections—and correctly apply them to at least four case scenarios. |
| FLSA fact sheet (U.S. Department of Labor), EEOC overview printout, case scenario cards, comprehension worksheets, Milady law and ethics chapter, NIC candidate information bulletin | 20-question knowledge check, minimum passing score 80%; all four case scenarios must be answered with a legally defensible rationale as judged by instructor. |
| 9 | Professional Ethics, Scope of Practice, and Client Safety | 10 | theory | Students will define the cosmetologist's scope of practice in their state, distinguish between services legally permitted and those that require referral, and apply a written code of ethics to resolve three professional dilemmas. |
| State board scope-of-practice document, Milady ethics chapter, dilemma scenario cards, T-chart worksheet, NIC exam content outline (professional practices domain) | Personal code-of-ethics statement graded on rubric: three obligations correctly identified, each linked to client safety and legal basis, professional tone; ≥80/100 to pass. |
| 10 | OSHA Hazard Communication in the Salon: SDS, Labeling, and Chemical Safety | 10 | lab | Students will locate and interpret Safety Data Sheets for five common salon chemicals, correctly identify GHS hazard pictograms, and demonstrate proper labeling of a secondary container, meeting OSHA Hazard Communication (HazCom) standard requirements. |
| Printed and online SDS documents for five salon products, GHS pictogram flashcard set, blank secondary-container labels, unlabeled containers, OSHA HazCom quick-card, computer with internet access | SDS analysis forms complete and accurate for all five products (instructor checks key fields); GHS matching ≥14/16 correct; all three secondary containers labeled correctly per OSHA requirements—any missing required field is an automatic fail requiring redo. |
| 11 | Salon Business Plan: Startup Costs, Break-Even, and Financial Projections | 18 | lab | Students will produce a written salon business plan that includes a realistic startup-cost estimate, a 12-month revenue projection, and a calculated break-even point, applying cosmetology-specific financial formulas accurately. |
| Google Sheets or Excel, startup-cost research worksheet, income-statement template, break-even formula reference, calculator, Milady business plan chapter, SBA small business resources (sba.gov) | Business plan evaluated on rubric: startup costs itemized with sources cited, all 12 months of projections complete, break-even calculated correctly (math verified by instructor), written interpretation logical; pass ≥80/100. |
| 12 | Integrated Salon Business Simulation and Credential Exam Review | 16 | practice | Students will complete a full simulated salon-week scenario integrating scheduling, client records, retail sales, financial tracking, and ethical decision-making, then review all NIC-aligned business and professional-practices content areas in preparation for the state licensing exam. |
| Salon simulation scenario packets, appointment grid, client record forms, retail sales tickets, daily revenue report form, NIC candidate information bulletin, 40-question practice exam, answer keys, personal study guide template | Simulation debriefing: instructor evaluates daily revenue report for math accuracy (≥90%), checks that all eight client records are complete, and confirms ethics scenario was resolved appropriately (pass/fail judgment); practice exam score recorded as a formative indicator only—personal study guide required for completion credit. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salon Business Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (must score ≥75% on each content domain: business math, employment law, ethics/scope of practice, and OSHA/chemical safety; any domain below 75% requires targeted remediation and retake of that domain section) | A 60-question multiple-choice and short-answer exam covering all lesson content areas and mapped directly to the NIC cosmetology licensing exam domains for business and professional practices. Questions assess trade math computation, employment law concepts, client-record obligations, scope of practice, OSHA HazCom requirements, and ethical decision-making. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Salon Business Plan Skills Defense | Skills demonstration | 45% | Student must score ≥80/100 on the written plan rubric AND receive a rating of Satisfactory or higher on the oral defense rubric; a score below 80 on the written plan requires revision before the defense is permitted | Students submit their completed salon business plan—including service menu, startup-cost itemization, 12-month income projection, and break-even analysis—and present a 10-minute oral defense to an instructor panel that asks at least three clarifying questions about financial decisions and ethical considerations. The defense demonstrates that students can explain and justify their business decisions, not just produce the document. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log: Business Math and Operations Portfolio | Log | 15% | All 12 lessons must have a corresponding log entry; math entries must be ≥85% accurate; instructor stamps each entry as Complete or Incomplete—any Incomplete entry must be corrected within one week; portfolio with fewer than 12 stamped Complete entries does not pass | A cumulative portfolio documenting student work from all 12 lessons, including completed math problem sets, inventory count sheets, client intake forms, content calendar, SDS analysis forms, and the salon simulation revenue report. The log demonstrates consistent engagement with applied business skills across the full course and serves as evidence of competency for the licensing credential portfolio requirement. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| OSHA HazCom and Professional Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on secondary-container labeling (all required fields present and accurate; no missing or incorrect hazard information permitted); ≥87% on GHS identification; SDS analysis complete for all five products with all safety-critical fields (Sections 2, 4, 7, 8) correct—any failure in container labeling requires immediate redo before student may proceed to subsequent coursework | A performance-based safety evaluation in which students demonstrate live, without reference materials, that they can correctly label secondary containers per OSHA HazCom standards, identify GHS pictograms, and locate first-aid and exposure information on an unfamiliar SDS. This check directly supports client and worker safety and aligns with the safety and infection-control domain of the NIC state cosmetology licensing examination. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-07 Trade course
California Cosmetology State Law, Rules, and Professional Standards
137 hr · $1,975 COMPLIMENTARY
This course provides a thorough grounding in the state statutes, administrative rules, and board regulations that govern the practice of cosmetology, including scope of practice, licensing requirements, salon establishment standards, and consumer protection provisions. Students examine how legal requirements connect directly to daily professional conduct, client safety, and maintaining an active license in good standing. Lesson content is mapped to the law and regulations domain tested on the state licensing examination.
Outcomes- Identify the statutory basis and administrative authority of the state cosmetology board and explain how regulations are enacted, amended, and enforced.
- Accurately describe the scope of practice for a licensed cosmetologist and distinguish services that require a different or additional license.
- Apply state sanitation, disinfection, and safety regulations to salon situations and correctly determine when a service must be refused.
- Explain licensing application requirements, renewal cycles, continuing education obligations, and the consequences of practicing without a valid license.
- Interpret salon establishment permit requirements, inspection procedures, and record-keeping obligations for both employees and salon owners.
- Demonstrate compliance with consumer protection provisions, client rights, and professional conduct standards as examined on the state board written examination.
Course text
This course provides a thorough grounding in the state statutes, administrative rules, and board regulations that govern the practice of cosmetology, including scope of practice, licensing requirements, salon establishment standards, and consumer protection provisions. Students examine how legal requirements connect directly to daily professional conduct, client safety, and maintaining an active license in good standing. Lesson content is mapped to the law and regulations domain tested on the state licensing examination.
How the course runs. 11 blocks: The Legal Framework: Cosmetology Statutes and the State Board; Scope of Practice: What Cosmetologists May and May Not Do; Individual Licensing: Application, Requirements, and Renewal; Salon Establishment Permits, Physical Plant, and Inspection; Sanitation, Disinfection, and Safety Regulations Under State Law; Chemical Safety Regulations: OSHA, SDS, and State Rules in the Salon; Consumer Protection, Client Rights, and Anti-Discrimination Law; Professional Conduct, Ethics, and Disciplinary Procedures; Record-Keeping, Documentation, and Employer/Employee Law in the Salon; State Law Examination Simulation: Full Practice Written Test; Regulatory Compliance Applied: Salon Walk-Through and Mock Inspection.
What competent looks like. Identify the statutory basis and administrative authority of the state cosmetology board and explain how regulations are enacted, amended, and enforced. Accurately describe the scope of practice for a licensed cosmetologist and distinguish services that require a different or additional license. Apply state sanitation, disinfection, and safety regulations to salon situations and correctly determine when a service must be refused. Explain licensing application requirements, renewal cycles, continuing education obligations, and the consequences of practicing without a valid license. Interpret salon establishment permit requirements, inspection procedures, and record-keeping obligations for both employees and salon owners. Demonstrate compliance with consumer protection provisions, client rights, and professional conduct standards as examined on the state board written examination.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Legal Framework: Cosmetology Statutes and the State Board | 11 | theory | Students will explain the constitutional and statutory basis for state regulation of cosmetology, identify the structure and authority of the state cosmetology board, and describe how rules are proposed, adopted, and published. |
| State cosmetology act (current edition, state legislature website printout), state board administrative rules (current edition), state board official website reference, whiteboard and markers, student notebooks | Exit quiz of 10 multiple-choice questions drawn from the statute and rule sections covered; students must score 80% or higher to proceed. |
| 2 | Scope of Practice: What Cosmetologists May and May Not Do | 13 | theory | Students will accurately categorize a list of services as within or outside the cosmetology scope of practice, identify which services require a separate license category, and explain the legal and safety rationale for those boundaries. |
| State cosmetology act scope-of-practice sections, printed service-sort cards (instructor-prepared), sample disciplinary case summaries from board public records, student notebooks | Service-sort card activity scored against the statute: students must correctly categorize at least 18 of 20 cards; any error on medical or invasive services triggers mandatory re-teaching before lesson 3. |
| 3 | Individual Licensing: Application, Requirements, and Renewal | 15 | theory | Students will list the current educational, examination, and application requirements for initial cosmetology licensure in the state, explain the renewal schedule and continuing education requirements, and describe consequences of lapsed or fraudulent licensure. |
| Current state board license application form and instructions (official board website), state renewal and continuing education requirements (board website), sample vignettes (instructor-prepared), colored markers, poster board | Completed mock application evaluated by instructor using a 15-point checklist; all required fields must be correctly completed and all required documents identified. Students scoring below 12/15 resubmit before lesson 4. |
| 4 | Salon Establishment Permits, Physical Plant, and Inspection | 15 | theory | Students will describe the requirements for obtaining and maintaining a salon establishment permit, list the physical plant and equipment standards required by state rule, and explain what inspectors look for during a routine or complaint-based inspection. |
| State board salon establishment permit application, state physical plant and equipment standards (administrative rules), sample salon floor plan diagram (instructor-prepared), inspection checklist template, chart paper and markers | Salon compliance checklist graded against the state rules: students must correctly identify at least 90% of violations in the scenario and cite the applicable rule section for each. Scores below 90% require one-on-one remediation. |
| 5 | Sanitation, Disinfection, and Safety Regulations Under State Law | 15 | demo | Students will connect specific state sanitation and disinfection rules to the procedures already learned in Course 5, demonstrate the legally required sequence for multiuse implement care, and explain when state law requires refusal of service. |
| State sanitation and disinfection rules (administrative code, current edition), multiuse implements (shears, combs, bowls), EPA-registered disinfectant solution, noncompliant workstation props (instructor-prepared), printed citation form template, student notebooks | Citation list for the noncompliant workstation: students must identify at least 85% of planted violations and cite the correct rule reference for each; any missed bloodborne-pathogen or skin-condition refusal violation is an automatic retest. |
| 6 | Chemical Safety Regulations: OSHA, SDS, and State Rules in the Salon | 13 | lab | Students will locate and interpret a Safety Data Sheet for a salon chemical product, apply OSHA Hazard Communication standards as they interact with state chemical-use rules, and identify required ventilation, storage, and labeling practices. |
| Sample SDS sheets for common salon chemicals (manufacturer websites or physical copies), sample product containers for labeling exercise, OSHA Hazard Communication standard summary (OSHA.gov), state chemical-use rules, PPE samples (gloves, apron, safety glasses), SDS summary sheet template | Completed SDS summary sheet and chemical safety protocol reviewed by instructor; both must correctly identify all required PPE and all disposal requirements, and at least one state-law and one OSHA citation must be accurate. Incomplete or inaccurate safety information requires immediate correction before the student participates in any chemical lab. |
| 7 | Consumer Protection, Client Rights, and Anti-Discrimination Law | 11 | theory | Students will identify the consumer protection provisions embedded in state cosmetology law, explain client rights regarding pricing disclosure, privacy, and complaints, and describe how federal anti-discrimination law intersects with professional practice. |
| State cosmetology act consumer protection sections, state board complaint procedure (board website), case study handouts (instructor-prepared), federal civil rights law summary (EEOC.gov plain-language reference), student notebooks | Case study analysis graded with a rubric: each scenario requires correct identification of the violation, the applicable law or rule, and one client remedy. Students must score 80% or higher across all three scenarios. |
| 8 | Professional Conduct, Ethics, and Disciplinary Procedures | 13 | theory | Students will describe the categories of unprofessional conduct defined in state law, explain the board's disciplinary process from complaint to resolution, and apply an ethical decision-making framework to professional dilemmas common in cosmetology. |
| Published board disciplinary action summaries (state board public records, anonymized by instructor), ethical decision-making model poster, professional association code of ethics reference (e.g., NIC or state association), student notebooks | Personal professional code of conduct graded on a 10-point rubric: must include at least five commitments, each traceable to a specific state law requirement or published ethical standard. Scores below 7/10 require revision before lesson 9. |
| 9 | Record-Keeping, Documentation, and Employer/Employee Law in the Salon | 12 | theory | Students will identify which records a salon is legally required to maintain, explain the basic distinctions between employee and independent contractor status as they affect salon compliance, and complete a sample client record and service ticket that meets state requirements. |
| State record-keeping requirements (administrative rules), sample client record and service ticket forms, state board inspection record list, IRS independent contractor vs. employee guidance (plain-language summary, IRS.gov), peer-review checklist (instructor-prepared) | Completed client record packet peer-reviewed and then instructor-verified against the state-requirement checklist; all required fields must be present and correctly completed. Any missing legally required field is returned for immediate correction. |
| 10 | State Law Examination Simulation: Full Practice Written Test | 13 | practice | Students will complete a timed, full-length practice examination covering all state law and regulations content areas and identify, from their results, specific topics requiring further study before the credential examination. |
| 100-question practice examination (instructor-prepared from state examination content outline), answer key, error analysis log template, state cosmetology act and administrative rules (for reference during review only), student notebooks | Practice exam scored and logged; students scoring below 75% receive a written individual study plan from the instructor identifying specific rule sections to review. All students must document all errors in the error analysis log before the next lesson. |
| 11 | Regulatory Compliance Applied: Salon Walk-Through and Mock Inspection | 6 | field | Students will apply state establishment and sanitation regulations in a real or simulated salon environment by conducting a structured compliance inspection and producing a written compliance report suitable for submission to the class. |
| State board salon inspection form (official form, board website), school clinic or partner salon access, inspection checklists (team copies), clipboards, state administrative rules (field reference), presentation rubric | Written inspection report graded by instructor: must cite the correct rule section for every identified deficiency (100% accuracy on citations), and the corrective action for each must be achievable and appropriate. Presentations evaluated on accuracy of rule citations in responses to challenge questions; incorrect citation of a safety-critical rule requires documented re-instruction. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Law Written Knowledge Examination | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (75/100 questions) | A 100-question multiple-choice examination administered under closed-book, timed conditions, covering all domains of state cosmetology law and regulations as defined in the state licensing examination content outline: statutes, board authority, scope of practice, licensing requirements, sanitation rules, consumer protection, and professional conduct. Students must score at least 75% to earn credit for this course; students who do not pass are eligible for one retake after completing a targeted remediation session with the instructor. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Salon Compliance Inspection Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | 90% of items correctly evaluated; 100% accuracy on all sanitation and bloodborne-pathogen items | Each student independently inspects a staged salon workstation containing a set number of deliberate compliance deficiencies and completes an official-style citation form, citing the specific rule section for every deficiency identified. The skills demonstration is graded against a master deficiency list; failure to identify any sanitation, chemical safety, or bloodborne-pathogen violation is treated as a critical error requiring immediate remediation and a full retake before the student may advance to the Capstone course. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Regulatory Research and Application Lab Log | Log | 15% | All required entries present; average score of 80% across all rubric criteria | Students maintain a cumulative lab log throughout the course documenting their completion of every research and application activity: SDS summaries, compliance checklists, client record packets, service-sort results, and error analysis logs. Each entry is dated, references the applicable state rule or statute section, and includes the student's reflective note on how the requirement protects client or public safety. The instructor reviews the complete log at the end of the course using a standardized rubric assessing accuracy of rule citations, completeness of entries, and quality of safety rationale. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and Scope-of-Practice Regulatory Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% correct on all client refusal and scope-of-practice items; no critical safety violations | A structured oral and written safety check in which the instructor presents the student with six scenario cards—two scope-of-practice situations, two client refusal situations, and two chemical or sanitation emergencies—and the student must verbally state and briefly write the legally correct action, citing the applicable state rule or statute. Any incorrect response on a client refusal or scope-of-practice card is an automatic fail requiring full remediation and re-examination; scores on non-critical items must reach 100% correct to pass. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
HLT-COSM32-08 Capstone
Cosmetology Capstone Project: Integrated Client Services Portfolio and Defense
180 hr · $1,800 COMPLIMENTARY
Students demonstrate mastery of the full cosmetology scope of practice by planning, executing, and documenting a multi-service client experience that integrates hair, skin, and nail services with safe sanitation protocols, salon business principles, and state law compliance. Each student produces a written project dossier, a photographic and written portfolio of completed services, and defends their work and decision-making before a panel of instructor-evaluators. This capstone directly maps to the domains tested on the state licensing examination administered through the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) written and practical components.
Outcomes- Plan and document a complete multi-service client consultation that integrates hair, skin, and nail services while identifying contraindications and applying state scope-of-practice rules.
- Execute at least three distinct cosmetology services on live models under instructor supervision, meeting industry-standard technical quality benchmarks for each service category.
- Apply infection-control and chemical-safety procedures that comply with OSHA Hazard Communication standards and state board sanitation requirements throughout all performed services.
- Produce a project dossier containing a client intake form, service plans, product selection rationale with Safety Data Sheet references, photographic before-and-after documentation, and a self-evaluation.
- Demonstrate salon-business competencies by calculating service pricing, product cost, and retail recommendations appropriate to the client's needs.
- Articulate professional and ethical decision-making, including recognition of when to refer a client to a licensed medical professional, during an oral defense evaluated against a scored rubric.
Course text
Students demonstrate mastery of the full cosmetology scope of practice by planning, executing, and documenting a multi-service client experience that integrates hair, skin, and nail services with safe sanitation protocols, salon business principles, and state law compliance. Each student produces a written project dossier, a photographic and written portfolio of completed services, and defends their work and decision-making before a panel of instructor-evaluators. This capstone directly maps to the domains tested on the state licensing examination administered through the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) written and practical components.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Capstone Planning: Client Profile, Service Design, and Compliance Review; Live Service Execution: Hair, Skin, and Nail Services on Live Models; Portfolio Assembly: Dossier Compilation and Self-Evaluation; Oral Defense: Presentation and Professional Judgment Panel.
What competent looks like. Plan and document a complete multi-service client consultation that integrates hair, skin, and nail services while identifying contraindications and applying state scope-of-practice rules. Execute at least three distinct cosmetology services on live models under instructor supervision, meeting industry-standard technical quality benchmarks for each service category. Apply infection-control and chemical-safety procedures that comply with OSHA Hazard Communication standards and state board sanitation requirements throughout all performed services. Produce a project dossier containing a client intake form, service plans, product selection rationale with Safety Data Sheet references, photographic before-and-after documentation, and a self-evaluation. Demonstrate salon-business competencies by calculating service pricing, product cost, and retail recommendations appropriate to the client's needs. Articulate professional and ethical decision-making, including recognition of when to refer a client to a licensed medical professional, during an oral defense evaluated against a scored rubric.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Capstone Planning: Client Profile, Service Design, and Compliance Review | 40 | theory | Students will produce a complete, compliant project plan that includes a thorough client intake and health history, a multi-service menu with rationale, identified contraindications, Safety Data Sheet references for all chemical products to be used, and a cost-and-pricing worksheet. |
| Cosmetology consultation forms (state-board-style), blank SDS reference sheets, product SDS binders assembled in Course 5, state board rules pamphlet from Course 7, cosmetology textbook (current edition, e.g., Milady Standard Cosmetology), pricing/markup worksheet template, pens, highlighters, laptop or tablet with internet access for SDS lookup. | Instructor reviews the completed project plan against a 20-point checklist (client profile complete, contraindications identified with rationale, SDS cited for every chemical product, three services planned with written rationale, pricing worksheet mathematically accurate, referral criteria stated); students must score 16/20 (80%) to advance to Lesson 2. |
| 2 | Live Service Execution: Hair, Skin, and Nail Services on Live Models | 90 | lab | Students will perform their planned hair, skin, and nail services on live models, meeting the technical execution and infection-control standards used in the NIC practical examination, as evaluated by instructors using a scored performance rubric for each service. |
| Full cosmetology kit (shears, combs, brushes, rollers, clips, cape, towels, neck strip), mannequin heads and live models per school scheduling, hair color and developer (school inventory), chemical texture products with SDS on hand, facial treatment supplies (cleansers, toner, moisturizer, magnifying lamp, steam towel), manicure/pedicure implements, nail polish, UV-blocking topcoat, EPA-registered disinfectant solution and approved containers, nitrile gloves, safety glasses, OSHA Hazard Communication reference poster, digital camera or smartphone, rubric forms, cosmetology textbook. | Each of the three services is evaluated separately on a rubric of 25 criteria-referenced items (items drawn from NIC practical examination areas: preparation/sanitation, client protection, technique execution, product application, timing, finished result); passing is 20/25 (80%) on each service rubric. A student who does not pass a service rubric on the evaluated run is given one remediation session and one additional evaluated attempt before the portfolio defense date; failure to pass on the second attempt triggers an academic intervention meeting. |
| 3 | Portfolio Assembly: Dossier Compilation and Self-Evaluation | 30 | practice | Students will compile and organize all project documentation into a professional dossier that includes annotated before-and-after photographs, completed service records, SDS references, the business worksheet, and a written self-evaluation that identifies strengths, areas for improvement, and specific NIC exam content domains the project addressed. |
| Dossier binder or digital folder template provided by school, completed documents from Lessons 1 and 2, printed or digital photographs, word-processing software, NIC candidate handbook (current version, available from NIC at nictesting.org) for exam domain reference, rubric for portfolio completeness checklist. | Instructor evaluates the submitted dossier against a 15-item completeness and quality checklist (all required sections present, photographs labeled, self-evaluations address all four required points per service, SDS citations present for all chemicals, business worksheet complete); passing is 12/15 (80%). Students with missing required elements have one opportunity to correct and resubmit before the defense date. |
| 4 | Oral Defense: Presentation and Professional Judgment Panel | 20 | field | Students will present their capstone project to a two- or three-member panel of cosmetology instructors, explain and justify their professional decisions, respond to evaluator questions about technique, safety, client referral, and state law, and demonstrate the level of knowledge and communication competency expected of an entry-level licensed cosmetologist. |
| Student dossier and portfolio (compiled in Lesson 3), panel scoring rubric (20-item, 4-point scale), standardized scenario question bank maintained by program faculty, timer, presentation area with table and chairs, state board rules pamphlet, NIC candidate handbook available to panel (not to student during questioning. | Panel uses a 20-item rubric scored on a 4-point scale (1 = unsatisfactory, 4 = exceeds expectations) across four domains: Presentation Clarity and Organization (5 items), Technical Knowledge and Justification (7 items), Safety and Compliance Reasoning (5 items), and Professional Communication (3 items); passing is a total score of 48/80 (60% of points) with no individual domain score below 2 on any single item. Students who do not pass are given written panel feedback and one opportunity to retake the defense within two weeks after targeted remediation with their assigned instructor. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capstone Project Dossier | Project | 60% | 80% (combined score across project plan checklist from Lesson 1 and portfolio completeness checklist from Lesson 3, weighted equally); all required sections must be present and all three service rubrics from Lesson 2 must be passed at 80% before the dossier is accepted as complete. | The project dossier is the primary artifact of the capstone: a compiled, professionally organized document containing the client intake form, multi-service plan with SDS citations, business pricing worksheet, annotated before-and-after photographs for all three services, completed service records, and written self-evaluations. Instructors evaluate the dossier for completeness, accuracy of regulatory and technical content, quality of photographic documentation, and depth of self-reflection using criterion-referenced checklists aligned to NIC examination content domains. Meets specification · Within estimate · Workmanship · Safety · Documentation |
| Service Execution Portfolio | Portfolio | 20% | Pass on all three individual service rubrics (each scored at a minimum of 80%, or 20/25 criteria-referenced items); a student who requires a remediation attempt on any service must achieve 80% on the remediation attempt to receive a passing portfolio grade. | The service execution portfolio documents evidence of hands-on technical competency across the three cosmetology disciplines and is built directly from the live service sessions in Lesson 2. It includes instructor-signed performance rubrics for each service, the instructor pre-service sanitation sign-off sheets, and the post-service disinfection verification records, demonstrating that the student can perform complete, safe, client-centered services at the entry-level standard defined by the NIC practical examination framework. Completeness · Organization · Evidence quality |
| Oral Defense | Oral / panel | 20% | 48 out of 80 points (60%) on the panel rubric with no individual item scored below 2 out of 4; students who do not meet the minimum on any domain category must remediate that domain specifically before retaking. | The oral defense is a panel examination in which the student presents their completed project and responds to standardized scenario-based questions assessing their ability to reason through technical, safety, regulatory, and business decisions as an entry-level cosmetologist would. The panel evaluates presentation organization, accuracy and depth of technical justification, correct application of OSHA and state-board safety and sanitation rules, and the professionalism of communication—skills directly paralleling the verbal reasoning and applied-knowledge demands of the NIC written licensing examination. Explains decisions · Answers technical questions · Professional communication |
HLT-COSM32-09 Externship / clinical
Clinical Practicum: Supervised Salon Experience
270 hr · $1,080 COMPLIMENTARY
Students complete 270 supervised hours at an approved externship site—a licensed salon, spa, or school clinic—performing real cosmetology services on members of the public under the direct oversight of a licensed cosmetologist or salon owner. Students integrate all technical, sanitation, client-communication, and business skills developed in prior coursework and receive structured employer evaluations that map to the state licensing competency areas. Successful completion fulfills the practical-hours requirement for state licensure application.
Outcomes- Perform a full menu of cosmetology services—including haircuts, chemical texture and color services, basic skin and nail care, and scalp treatments—safely and competently on real clients in a licensed salon environment.
- Apply EPA-registered disinfection and OSHA-required infection-control protocols correctly for every service setup and breakdown without prompting.
- Demonstrate professional client consultation, intake documentation, release forms, and post-service retail recommendations that meet industry and regulatory standards.
- Receive a passing employer evaluation score on all five competency domains (technical skill, safety/sanitation, professionalism, communication, and time management) at the midpoint and final review.
- Maintain a complete, legible clinical log documenting every service type, client intake process, products used, and supervisor feedback for all 270 hours.
- Identify situations that exceed student scope of practice—such as services on contraindicated skin or scalp conditions—and respond by appropriately referring the client to a licensed professional or physician.
Course text
Students complete 270 supervised hours at an approved externship site—a licensed salon, spa, or school clinic—performing real cosmetology services on members of the public under the direct oversight of a licensed cosmetologist or salon owner. Students integrate all technical, sanitation, client-communication, and business skills developed in prior coursework and receive structured employer evaluations that map to the state licensing competency areas. Successful completion fulfills the practical-hours requirement for state licensure application.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Externship Orientation: Site Rules, Scope, and Safety Protocols; Supervised Client Services: Hair, Skin, and Nail Practicum; Professional Practice: Client Management, Retail, and Workplace Documentation; Final Evaluation, Clinical Log Completion, and Externship Exit.
What competent looks like. Perform a full menu of cosmetology services—including haircuts, chemical texture and color services, basic skin and nail care, and scalp treatments—safely and competently on real clients in a licensed salon environment. Apply EPA-registered disinfection and OSHA-required infection-control protocols correctly for every service setup and breakdown without prompting. Demonstrate professional client consultation, intake documentation, release forms, and post-service retail recommendations that meet industry and regulatory standards. Receive a passing employer evaluation score on all five competency domains (technical skill, safety/sanitation, professionalism, communication, and time management) at the midpoint and final review. Maintain a complete, legible clinical log documenting every service type, client intake process, products used, and supervisor feedback for all 270 hours. Identify situations that exceed student scope of practice—such as services on contraindicated skin or scalp conditions—and respond by appropriately referring the client to a licensed professional or physician.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Externship Orientation: Site Rules, Scope, and Safety Protocols | 20 | field | Given the externship site's policies and all applicable safety requirements, the student will correctly complete all onboarding documentation and demonstrate proper station setup, disinfection procedure, and emergency response location to the supervising cosmetologist before performing any client service. |
| Site employee handbook, EPA-registered disinfectant (site-supplied), SDS binder, lined trash receptacles, clean towels/capes, client intake and release forms, OSHA Hazard Communication standard reference sheet, site orientation rubric | Supervisor signs off on the site orientation rubric; student must receive 'satisfactory' on all items before being cleared to serve clients. Any 'unsatisfactory' item requires a repeated demonstration the same day. |
| 2 | Supervised Client Services: Hair, Skin, and Nail Practicum | 185 | practice | Over the core externship hours, the student will perform a documented variety of cosmetology services—including haircutting, blow-dry and finish styling, chemical relaxer or permanent wave application, single-process color, scalp treatments, basic facials, and manicures—on actual clients, meeting the quality and safety standard assessed on the midpoint employer evaluation. |
| Full salon tool kit (shears, combs, brushes, rollers, applicator brushes, color bowls), mannequin heads for warm-up drills if needed, EPA-registered disinfectant, professional color and chemical lines (site-supplied), client intake and release forms, clinical log booklet, midpoint employer evaluation form | Midpoint employer evaluation (at approximately 135 hours) scored on a 5-domain rubric (technical skill, safety/sanitation, professionalism, communication, time management); student must score 'meets expectations' or above in every domain to continue without a remediation plan. Any domain rated 'below expectations' triggers a written improvement plan co-signed by the supervisor and externship coordinator. |
| 3 | Professional Practice: Client Management, Retail, and Workplace Documentation | 40 | field | The student will demonstrate professional salon business practices—including scheduling, point-of-sale transactions, retail product recommendations, and accurate service documentation—on at least ten distinct client interactions evaluated by the supervising cosmetologist. |
| Salon scheduling software or appointment book (site-supplied), point-of-sale terminal, retail product display and product knowledge cards, clinical log booklet, program digital submission portal or email, weekly service reconciliation sheet | Supervising cosmetologist completes a professional-practice checklist for ten observed client interactions; student must demonstrate correct retail recommendation technique and accurate documentation on at least eight of the ten interactions (80%) to pass this lesson segment. |
| 4 | Final Evaluation, Clinical Log Completion, and Externship Exit | 25 | field | The student will complete all 270 externship hours, submit a fully documented clinical log, and earn a passing score on the final employer evaluation across all five competency domains, demonstrating readiness to apply for the state cosmetology license. |
| Final employer evaluation rubric (5-domain, site and program copy), completed clinical log booklet, program externship site evaluation form, state board licensure application checklist (current version from the relevant state board), program externship coordinator contact information | Final employer evaluation must show 'meets expectations' or above in all five domains, with no domain rated 'below expectations'; clinical log must account for all 270 hours with supervisor initials on each weekly page. A log with uninitialed pages or a domain rating of 'below expectations' on the final evaluation requires the externship coordinator to review and determine whether additional hours or a remediation service are required before the student is cleared. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Clinical Evaluation (Midpoint and Final) | Clinical evaluation | 70% | Student must score 'meets expectations' or above on all five competency domains (technical skill, safety/sanitation, professionalism, communication, and time management) on both the midpoint evaluation (at approximately 135 hours) and the final evaluation (at 270 hours); a single domain rated 'below expectations' at the final evaluation constitutes a failing result requiring coordinator review. | The site's supervising licensed cosmetologist completes a structured rubric-based evaluation of the student's real-client performance at the midpoint and again at the conclusion of the externship; scores are mapped to the state licensing competency areas for technical services, safety and infection control, and professional conduct, making this evaluation the primary evidence that the student has met industry and regulatory standards for entry-level practice. Competency · Safety · Attendance · Conduct · Initiative |
| Clinical Log (Service Documentation Portfolio) | Log | 30% | Log must document all 270 externship hours with supervisor initials on each weekly summary page; service tally must include entries across at least three service categories (hair, skin, nails); each entry must include date, service type, products used, and one supervisor feedback note; any week with missing initials or fewer than the required entry fields is considered incomplete and must be corrected before the student is cleared for licensure application. | The student maintains a bound clinical log throughout the entire 270-hour externship, recording every client service, the sanitation steps performed, products and chemicals used, supervisor feedback, and cumulative hour totals; the completed and supervisor-initialed log is submitted to the program externship coordinator at exit and serves as the official documentation of practical-hours completion required by the state licensing board for the cosmetology license application. Complete · Verified |
HLT-COSM32-10 Exam prep
State Cosmetology Licensure Exam Preparation
75 hr · $750 COMPLIMENTARY
This course systematically reviews every domain tested on the state cosmetology written and practical licensing examinations, using the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) content outline as the organizing framework. Students complete timed written mock exams, full practical mock sessions scored with official rubrics, and targeted remediation in weak areas so they enter exam day prepared and confident. Emphasis is placed on test-taking strategy, safety and sanitation rationale, and the procedural precision the practical examination requires.
Outcomes- Demonstrate mastery of NIC written exam content domains—including sciences, hair, skin, nails, and salon business—by scoring 75% or higher on full-length timed practice exams.
- Execute each NIC practical examination service (haircutting, chemical services, skin care, nail care, sanitation) to passing standard using the official scoring rubric.
- Apply test-taking strategies—process of elimination, keyword recognition, time pacing—to improve accuracy on multiple-choice licensing exam questions.
- Identify and correct recurring procedural errors in chemical, nail, and skin services before the official practical examination.
- Explain the rationale behind safety, infection control, and state-law questions so answers are reasoned rather than memorized.
- Organize and verify all required candidate documentation, acceptable identification, and kit requirements prior to the official examination date.
Course text
This course systematically reviews every domain tested on the state cosmetology written and practical licensing examinations, using the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) content outline as the organizing framework. Students complete timed written mock exams, full practical mock sessions scored with official rubrics, and targeted remediation in weak areas so they enter exam day prepared and confident. Emphasis is placed on test-taking strategy, safety and sanitation rationale, and the procedural precision the practical examination requires.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: NIC Written Exam Domains: Sciences, Infection Control, and State Law; NIC Written Exam Domains: Hair, Skin, Nails, and Salon Business; NIC Practical Examination: Procedure Drill and Rubric Mastery; Full Mock Licensing Examination: Written and Practical.
What competent looks like. Demonstrate mastery of NIC written exam content domains—including sciences, hair, skin, nails, and salon business—by scoring 75% or higher on full-length timed practice exams. Execute each NIC practical examination service (haircutting, chemical services, skin care, nail care, sanitation) to passing standard using the official scoring rubric. Apply test-taking strategies—process of elimination, keyword recognition, time pacing—to improve accuracy on multiple-choice licensing exam questions. Identify and correct recurring procedural errors in chemical, nail, and skin services before the official practical examination. Explain the rationale behind safety, infection control, and state-law questions so answers are reasoned rather than memorized. Organize and verify all required candidate documentation, acceptable identification, and kit requirements prior to the official examination date.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NIC Written Exam Domains: Sciences, Infection Control, and State Law | 20 | theory | Students will correctly answer at least 75% of NIC-style multiple-choice questions covering anatomy and physiology, chemistry, electricity, microbiology, infection control, and state regulatory law on a timed diagnostic and follow-up practice sets. |
| NIC Candidate Information Bulletin (current edition), Milady Standard Cosmetology (current edition), instructor-prepared NIC-format question banks, individual score-tracking worksheets, blank index cards for flashcards, whiteboard. | Per-domain score on the end-of-lesson 50-question timed practice exam; students must reach 75% overall and identify a written remediation plan for any domain below 70%. Instructor reviews each student's score sheet before the next lesson. |
| 2 | NIC Written Exam Domains: Hair, Skin, Nails, and Salon Business | 15 | theory | Students will correctly answer at least 75% of NIC-style questions covering hair structure and disorders, chemical services, skin structure and disorders, nail structure and disorders, and salon business/career development on two timed practice sets. |
| NIC Candidate Information Bulletin, Milady Standard Cosmetology, Milady Standard Nail Technology, instructor question bank, exam timer, scoring answer keys, individual remediation logs. | Score on the 75-question timed practice exam; passing is 75% or higher. Students scoring below 75% receive a written domain-specific study assignment and re-test with an alternate 50-question set before beginning Lesson 3. |
| 3 | NIC Practical Examination: Procedure Drill and Rubric Mastery | 25 | lab | Students will perform each NIC practical examination service category—including a haircut, a chemical texture or color service, a basic facial, a basic manicure, and a disinfection setup—to the passing standard using the official NIC practical rubric, with the instructor scoring as an official examiner would. |
| Cosmetology mannequin heads and stands, shears, combs, brushes, rollers, chemical texture products and color products (per instructor kit list), skin care supplies (cleanser, toner, moisturizer, massage media), manicure implements (file, pusher, nippers), base coat and polish, disinfectant solution and wet disinfection container, drapes, towels, gloves, NIC practical score sheet (printed), exam kit checklist, timer. | Instructor scores each service using the NIC practical rubric; students must pass all five service categories at the rubric's passing threshold. Any service below passing is repeated in a remediation session before the mock exam in Lesson 4. Automatic-failure infractions (e.g., failure to perform pre-service sanitation) require a full service repeat regardless of other scores. |
| 4 | Full Mock Licensing Examination: Written and Practical | 15 | practice | Students will complete a full-length simulated written examination under timed exam conditions and a complete NIC practical mock examination scored by the instructor as an official evaluator, achieving passing scores on both components and demonstrating readiness for the official licensing examination. |
| Full-length written mock exam (instructor-prepared, NIC-blueprint aligned), answer keys, per-domain score report template, NIC practical score sheets, complete cosmetology service kit (same specification as Lesson 3), candidate documentation checklist (NIC Candidate Information Bulletin), individual study plan template. | Written mock exam: 75% or higher overall, with no single domain below 70%. Practical mock exam: passing score on every service category per the NIC rubric with no automatic-failure infractions. Students who do not meet either standard receive a documented remediation plan and a scheduled retake opportunity before the official examination date. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Mock Cosmetology Licensure Examination (Written and Practical) | Mock certification exam | 100% | 75% or higher on the written component with no domain below 70%; passing rubric score on every practical service category with no automatic-failure infractions noted. | Administered in Lesson 4, this capstone assessment replicates the official NIC licensing examination as closely as possible: a full-length timed multiple-choice written exam followed by a complete NIC practical examination scored by the instructor using official rubrics and official scoring criteria. Results are used to confirm student readiness for the state licensing examination and to produce a final individual remediation record for any student who does not meet the passing standard. Score · Time management |
Program completion
External credential: State Cosmetology License (NIC)
Students sit the State Cosmetology License examination, which in many states uses exams developed or administered through the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC); the NIC written and practical exams assess the knowledge and skills required for legal practice as a cosmetologist. Pass standard: Credential issued by the body.
Back to Cosmetology · How the school gets authority to award these credentials
