Cosmetology
Degree Type
37-credit Technical Diploma
Program Code
31-502-1
Time to Degree
1 or 2 years
Start Date
August / January
How You'll Learn
On Campus
8-Week Courses
Daytime
Evening
Part-Time
Full-Time
Those working in cosmetology have a taste for style, helping clients enhance their experience and look their best. Combine theory with practice to study haircutting, styling, color, perm waving, chemical relaxing, and learn about nail and skin care. Learn business aspects of working in a salon, including professional and personal development, communication and Wisconsin law.
How To Apply
This program is only open to in-state residents.
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading or writing skills:
- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.
*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.
Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.
Before Program Start
- Meet the minimum placement testing requirements.
- Review the Frequently Asked Questions.
- Attend a mandatory Cosmetology student orientation. Check your WCTC email for day, time and location.
Students who receive a seat in the Cosmetology will be notified via email with instructions on how to register for core program courses.
After Program Completion
After completion of the first year of core progam courses, you may register for the next regularly scheduled Wisconsin State Licensing Exam for Cosmetology. The exam consists of both written and practical components and costs approximately $400. Upon successful completion of these exams, you will be authorized to practice aesthetics in the State of Wisconsin.
- To take the state licensing exam, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a high school graduate or have attained high school graduation equivalency.
- Be able to obtain a Social Security Number.
- Complete a background check. Convictions of crimes or pending charges may be grounds for denial of license if the circumstances of the conviction or charge are substantially related to professional practice.
- Visit https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/BoardsCouncils/Cosmetology for additional information.
- You are required to obtain licensing within one year of completing the first year of core progam courses.
Program Details
Contact Us
Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.
Potential Careers
If you enjoy experimenting with hair and nail techniques, have a creative eye and strong people skills, a career in cosmetology may be for you. Those in this field need to have good manual dexterity and stamina as they stand for long stretches of time, and they perform specialty services that require attention to detail.
- Hair Stylist
- Cosmetologist
- Spa Services Provider
- Makeup Artist
- Cosmetology Retail Sales
High School Eligibility
This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Please note:
- To take the state licensing exam, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a high school graduate or have attained high school graduation equivalency.
- You are required to obtain licensing within one year of completing this program.
- Occasional overnight travel to trade shows is optional but beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Cosmetology program.
Career Salaries
$26,400 – $38,000 annually, plus potential commission and tip opportunities
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Lightcast. Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements. Find our graduates' entry wages in the most recent Graduate Success Report.
Financial Aid
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
What Makes This Program Unique
- WCTC's Style & Class Salon and Spa is a full-service salon operated by the Cosmetology program. Students learn in this hands-on environment by servicing guests.
- Graduates of this program have achieved a 100% pass rate on the Wisconsin State Licensing Exam for Cosmetology since 2009.
- Participate in hair shows, community service, and industry-sponsored events to begin developing your professional network for employment.
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