Cosmetology Certificate

Ready to make your mark in the beauty industry? The demand for licensed cosmetologists is soaring as self-care, wellness, and beauty trends continue to thrive. Whether you dream of working in salons, fashion, film—or launching your own business—Triton College’s Cosmetology Program provides hands-on training, licensing preparation, and industry connections to help you succeed.

A Thriving Industry
What’s the job outlook for cosmetologists? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for cosmetologists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2023-2033—faster than the average for all occupations. The growing popularity of hair coloring, straightening, and other advanced treatments is expected to drive demand throughout the next decade.

Start your journey into the beauty industry at Triton College—launch your cosmetology career today!

About Our Program and What You’ll Learn:
Our Cosmetology Certificate Program provides students with comprehensive training in the art and science of cosmetology. You will learn:

  • Haircutting, styling, and coloring techniques
  • Skincare, esthetics, and nail technology
  • Chemical services (perms, relaxers, and treatments)
  • Salon safety, sanitation, infection control, salon management and business strategies.

The program requires completion of 50 credit hours over 15 months (4 semesters) and is ideal for students seeking state licensure and career opportunities in the beauty industry.

Students must be able to speak and understand English and must be at a reading and writing level demonstrated by course equivalency or placement test of 440+ Next Gen Accuplacer, or SAT 340+, or ACT14+.

Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Cosmetology Program, you will be able to:

  • Communicate professionally in the workplace, with strong client interaction and customer service skills
  • Develop an employment portfolio showcasing technical skills, artistry, and professional readiness
  • Demonstrate technical proficiency in:
    • Haircutting, styling, and chemical services
    • Personalized haircuts and styles tailored to client’s facial structure, preferences, and needs
    • Product usage and application techniques
    • Practice proper decontamination and infection control procedures, ensuring a safe and hygienic salon environment
    • Skin care and esthetics treatments
    • Nail services and enhancements
    • Demonstrate effective learning of didactic material and techniques by passing the Illinois Licensed Cosmetology Exam on the first attempt.

Did you Know?
Many beauty professionals own their own businesses, set their own schedules, and build their personal brands! At Triton, you will train in a modern salon environment and work with real clients—all in a cost-effective, structured program designed to get you licensed and career-ready.

Apply today! Don’t miss your chance—space is limited, and spots are filling up quickly.

To enroll, all applicants must complete the following general admission requirements:

  • Submit a Triton College Application
  • Submit applicable transcripts
  • Take placement exams or demonstrate course equivalency
  • Complete new student orientation

Course Sequence:

Semester 1: Foundations of Cosmetology

  • COS 101 – Fundamentals of Cosmetology (3 credits)
  • COS 102 – Basic Hairstyling (3 credits)
  • COS 103 – Thermal Hair Styling (3 credits)
  • COS 104 – Salon Safety & Sanitation (3 credits)

Semester 2: Salon Operations & Techniques

  • COS 111 – Salon Operations (3 credits)
  • COS 112 – Hairstyling II (3 credits)
  • COS 113 – Thermal Hairstyling II (3 credits)
  • COS 114 – Esthetics & Nail Technology (3 credits)

Semester 3: Advanced Techniques

  • COS 201 – Basic Haircutting (3 credits)
  • COS 202 – Hairstyling III (3 credits)
  • COS 204 – Chemical Services I (3 credits)
  • COS 205 – Esthetics & Nail Technology II (3 credits)

Semester 4: Business & Specializations

  • COS 213 – Salon Management (3 credits)
  • COS 214 – Chemical Services II (3 credits)
  • COS 225 – Advanced Cosmetology (3 credits)
  • COS 245 – Cosmetology Clinic (3 credits)
  • COS 250 – Cosmetology Licensing Preparation (2 credits)

Attendance at an information session is ENCOURAGED in order to apply for admission to this program.
By attending an information session, you will learn about the career, the program at the college and the career pathways in the field.
For information on information session dates, times and locations, please register through our form below.

Cosmetology Program
Information Session Registration

Get Started Today!
No prior experience required.
Meet with an Academic Advisor to explore your options.
Learn about Financial Aid and Scholarships opportunities.

Triton College’s academic support services and campus resources include teams dedicated to advising, tutoring, mental health and wellness, research assistance, access and accommodations, and more. Our staff is committed to connecting you to the services and materials you need to succeed.

Contact Us

Donita Mitchell
Cosmetology Faculty
donitamitchell@triton.edu
(708) 456-0300, Ext. 3984