Cosmetology (COSM)
COSM 121 Cosmetology I (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 3
Lab hours: 6
Students will have a comprehensive understanding of essential safety protocols, sanitation standards, infection control measures, hairstyling techniques, and effective client communication in the cosmetology industry. Students will learn best practices for maintaining a safe and hygienic salon environment, including proper disinfection procedures, regulatory compliance, and workplace safety guidelines. The hairstyling component covers foundational and advanced techniques in hair design, with a focus on shaping, finishing, and styling to meet diverse clients needs. Additionally, the course emphasizes the importance of professional client interactions, consultation skills, and building strong client relationships to enhance salon success.
COSM 122 Cosmetology II (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 3
Lab hours: 6
Prerequisite: COSM 121 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides foundational and advanced training in haircutting and hair coloring techniques. Students will develop skills in various haircutting methods, layering, texturizing, and precision cutting. Alongside cutting techniques, the course covers comprehensive hair coloring principles, from color theory and product selection to application techniques and corrective color services. Through hands-on practice, students will gain confidence and competence in delivering custom haircuts and colors tailored to individual client needs. Emphasis is placed on safety, sanitation, and effective client communication, preparing students for professional work in the cosmetology field.
COSM 123 Cosmetology III (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 3
Lab hours: 6
Prerequisite: COSM 122 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
Students will gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in nail care, enhancements, and chemical hair services in this 8-week Advanced Cosmetology course based on the Milady Cosmetology 14th Edition. This course is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to perform professional services such as nail structure analysis, manicuring, pedicuring, gel manicures, nail art, and acrylic nail enhancements. Additionally, students will explore chemical texture services including perming and hair relaxing. Emphasis is placed on sanitation practices, client consultation, and state board standards to prepare students for success in the salon environment and licensing exams.
COSM 124 Cosmetology IV (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 10
Prerequisite: COSM 123 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides a thorough education on essential skincare and advanced hair styling techniques for cosmetology students. The first part of the course covers all skin-related topics, including common skin diseases and disorders, analysis of skin types, and the appropriate care and treatment methods. Students will gain hands-on experience in facials, waxing, and makeup application techniques, learning how to customize services for each client's unique needs. The second part of the course focuses on advanced hairstyling, including braiding techniques, hair extensions, and wig care. Students will be trained in various braiding styles, methods for applying and maintaining hair extensions, and the fitting, styling, and care of wigs. This course combines scientific knowledge with technical skills to prepare students for a versatile career in the beauty industry.
COSM 131 Cosmetology V (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 10
Prerequisite: COSM 124 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
This advanced course bridges scientific foundations with practical skills essential for cosmetology professionals. Students will explore in-depth topics in chemistry, electricity, and anatomy to understand how these elements affect hair, skin, and nail services. The curriculum emphasizes the chemical composition of cosmetology products, the principles of electricity in salon equipment, and the anatomy related to effective client care. Additionally, students will create professional portfolios and personal style books, showcasing their work, techniques, and unique style developed during cosmetology training. Complementing classroom learning, students will participate in salon visits to observe real-world applications, gaining insights into industry standards and practices that enhance their readiness for professional careers.
COSM 132 Cosmetology VI (6 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 10
Prerequisite: COSM 131 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
Students will gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in nail care, enhancements, and chemical hair services in this 8-week Advanced Cosmetology course based on the Milady Cosmetology 14th Edition. This course is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to perform professional services such as nail structure analysis, manicuring, pedicuring, gel manicures, nail art, and acrylic nail enhancements. Additionally, students will explore chemical texture services including perming and hair relaxing. Emphasis is placed on sanitation practices, client consultation, and state board standards to prepare students for success in the salon environment and licensing exams.
COSM 150 Cosmetology Instr Prog I (3 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 4
Highland offers training that meets or exceeds the State Department of Financial and Professional Regulations requirements for state licensure as a Cosmetology Instructor. This program offers teaching plans, study and testing skills and the basic learning styles and principles to train students on becoming a master educator. Must have an active Cosmetology License and be an active hairdresser for a minimum of two years.
COSM 152 Cosmetology Instr Prog II (3 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 4
Prerequisite: COSM 150 with minimum grade of C.
Highland offers training that meets or exceeds the State Department of Financial and Professional Regulations requirements for state licensure as a Cosmetology Instructor. This program offers teacher communication, effective presentations, and classroom management.
COSM 154 Cosmetology Instr Prog III (3 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 4
Prerequisite: COSM 152 with minimum grade of C.
Highland offers training that meets or exceeds the State Department of Financial and Professional Regulations requirements for state licensure as a Cosmetology Instructor. This program offers educational aids and technology in the classroom and develops how to assess progress, how to advise students, and how to make the student salon an adventure.
COSM 156 Cosmetology Instr Prog IV (3 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 1
Lab hours: 4
Prerequisite: COSM 154 with minimum grade of C.
Highland offers training that meets or exceeds the State Department of Financial and Professional Regulations requirements for state licensure as a Cosmetology Instructor. This program offers career and employment preparation, how to retain students, teach strategies for a winning career and understanding professional performance.
COSM 190 Nail Technology I (4 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 4
Lab hours: 0
An introduction to the profession including: salon conduct, ethics, client consultation, decontamination and safety. Students will understand anatomy and physiology of the skin and nails. Students will also learn the diseases and disorders of the skin and nails.
COSM 192 Nail Technology II (4 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 2
Lab hours: 4
Prerequisite: COSM 190 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
Students will identify and demonstrate skills in manicuring, pedicuring, and application of extension tips and acrylic enhancements. Students will understand the use of chemistry, electricity and nail products in our industry. Students will understand the artistry of nail art and application. Students will understand and use the electric file to shape nails. Finally, students will be able to demonstrate skills and principles on the clinic floor.
COSM 194 Nail Technology III (4 Credit Hours)
Type of credit: Occupational/Technical
Lecture hours: 2
Lab hours: 4
Prerequisite: COSM 192 with minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment.
Students will identify business skills of record keeping, marketing and sales, as well as job seeking skills needed. Students will identify and demonstrate skills used in the application of gel nails. Students will identify nail technology laws prescribed by the Department of Financial & Professional Regulations. Students will continue to perfect skills while performing client services on the clinic floor. Students will also complete written final exams and demonstrate skill in practical exam to prepare for state licensure.