Triton College is excited to announce the launch of a new Cosmetology Certificate program, designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in both the art and science of cosmetology. Beginning this fall, the program will feature a curriculum that blends hands-on training with academic instruction and will work in tandem with the college’s existing Barber Certificate program.
“Triton’s Cosmetology Certificate program is both cost- and time-effective,” said Donita Mitchell, Cosmetology Faculty. “There are endless possibilities for success.”
“Triton College is responding to the requests of our district high schools, as well as our surrounding communities,” added Dr. Troy Moran, Dean of Triton’s Health Careers and Public Service Programs. There is strong demand for this program, and community colleges strive to meet the needs of our residents, he said.
New learning facilities for the Cosmetology and Barber Program are set to be constructed in Triton College’s M Building. The space will include salon chairs and grooming stations, along with an expanded reception area, manicure and pedicure stations—creating a real-world salon environment for student learning.
According to Dr. Moran, community residents will be able to make an appointment for a range of services.
“Our instructors will guide students and clients, teaching and supervising,” said Dr. Moran. The certificate and learning facilities are great new additions for our campus community.
As for the program itself, Dr. Moran noted that students will gain knowledge on all aspects of cosmetology, including coloring, cutting, waxing, eyebrow services, weaves, wigs, and esthetic, among other skills. Students will also learn about human anatomy and the nervous system, with a focus on the head, hands and feet. As the program grows, Dr. Moran hopes to add more class schedules that would cater to a wider variety of prospective students.
“Students will learn about scalp diseases and disorders, anatomy of nails, hair relaxers, product knowledge, hair extension, skin care and much more,” said Mitchell.
The Cosmetology Certificate program requires 50 credit hours, equivalent to 1,500 clock hours required by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Courses will follow an 8-week format, allowing students to focus intensively on fewer subjects at a time and to maintain a flexible schedule. Upon completion, students will be eligible to take the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation, licensing exam.
“At Triton, students will learn with text books, kits, clippers and trimmers,” he said.
In addition to a high-quality education, Triton’s Cosmetology Certificate program is much more affordable than many larger cosmetology schools, said Dr. Moran, where tuition can exceed $22,000 per year, not including additional fees and costs.
According to Mitchell, there is projected 8 percent job growth in this field.
Dr. Moran also emphasized the entrepreneurial spirit and skills students will gain, including inventory management and front desk operations.
At Triton College, “we want students to be empowered and create their own pathways of success and change,” said Dr. Moran.
For more information on Triton College’s Cosmetology Program, visit triton.edu/cosmetology.