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.
Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.
Before Program Start
- 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.
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.
Course Offerings
View your program's Course List to learn when each course will be offered, including the term and time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seats are available in the Cosmetology program?
There are 45* total seats available every fall semester: 15 seats each in two full-time day sections and 15 in the part-time evening/Saturday section.
There are 45* total seats available every spring semester: 15 seats each in two full-time day sections and 15 in the part-time evening/Saturday section.
Visit the schedule options tab on the Cosmetology program page for additional information.
*Subject to change
Is the Cosmetology program eligible for financial aid?
Yes, students enrolled in the Cosmetology program are eligible for financial aid. Visit studentaid.gov to start the financial aid process. Please not, financial aid may not cover the full cost of tuition, iPad, LAB, kit and/or summer interim. For more information or to connect with a financial aid advisor go to wctc.edu/financial-aid, email money@wctc.edu or call 262.691.5436.
I am admitted for the upcoming semester. When should I register for courses?
This program has very limited seat availability. It is important to be admitted and review how to register prior to registration opening. Registration for courses begins at 7 a.m. on the first day of new student registration. Find important registration dates here: wctc.edu/reg-dates.
Once admitted to the Cosmetology program, am I guaranteed a seat in program courses?
No, registration occurs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Full-Time Program Students
Students are require to self-enroll in the course "Study of Hair and Scalp - 502370." Registration will then add you to the rest off the courses within 24-48 hours.
Courses for full-time students meet Monday - Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:50 p.m. for approximately 40 hours of instructional time and 20 hours of homework per week.
Part-Time Program Students
Students are required to self-enroll in the course "Study of Hair and Scalp - 502370." Registration will then add you to the rest of the courses within 24-48 hours.
Courses for part-time students meet Monday - Thursday between 5-8:50 p.m., and Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 4:50 p.m. for approximately 20-24 hours of instructional time and 10 hours of homework per week.
*WCTC reserves the right to adjust your schedule if you are enrolled incorrectly.
How and where do we practice services?
Students in the Cosmetology program practice services on their fellow classmates, friends, family and the general public in WCTC's Style & Class Salon and Spa, as well as various external community locations.
Is there a dress code for the program?
Yes, there is a dress code for the program. Students are required to wear all black attire and a smock that will be provided to them.
Will I earn my license upon completion of the Cosmetology program?
Upon graduation, students may register for the next regularly scheduled Wisconsin State Board Cosmetology Practitioners Licensing Exam. The licensing exam consists of both written and practical examinations. The cost of the exam is about $400. Upon successful completion of these exams the individual will be authorized to practice cosmetology in the State of Wisconsin.
To be eligible for testing and licensing, you must be able to obtain a Social Security Number.
Will I need to complete a background check for this program?
Acceptance into the program at WCTC does not require a background check and a student will not be denied based on a criminal background. However, certain offenses may prevent you from being able to obtain your license.
A background check will be necessary prior to sitting for your state licensing exam. 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 dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Cosmetologist for additional information.
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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