Online Schools for Cosmetology Instructors: How to Choose

Cosmetology teachers, who instruct others on taking care of and adorning the human face, hair, nails and body to enhance beauty, work in a number of settings, such as community colleges, beauty schools and vocational schools. Many training programs to become a cosmetology instructor exist, but at this time, no such programs are available fully online. However, rare online programs that may relate to cosmetology are offered.

How to Choose an Online Cosmetology Instructor Program

Award Levels

Students don't currently have the option to complete cosmetology instructor programs completely online, since much of this profession's learning requires hands-on practice. Some distance-learning programs exist that may help licensed cosmetologists gain some insight and experience before pursuing a traditional cosmetology instructor course. One option for individuals to consider is an online Associate of Cosmetology Business.
An alternative is to earn a cosmetology instructor degree through a program in which cosmetology classes meet on campus, and a few of the required general education classes occur online. This option may work for those who live within commuting distance of their school. Traditional cosmetology instructor certificate programs are also available, but they're completely on campus. Licensed cosmetologists should consider which option fits into their schedule and which degree designation helps them meet their professional goals.

Professional Requirements

Students should look for programs that require them to be licensed cosmetologists, since all states require cosmetology instructors to be licensed or certified as cosmetologists. Qualifications vary by state, with most requiring graduation from a licensed school. Other prerequisites may include a specified educational level, minimum age and years of professional practice. Prospective students want to be sure they are licensed as a cosmetologist in the state they want to teach in, since reciprocity agreements between states are uncommon. State licensing exams usually consist of written or oral examinations and sometimes a practical skills test.

Program Format and Equipment

Aspiring cosmetology instructors can expect to find cosmetology business programs in an entirely online format to accommodate working professionals. They should look for schools that provide technical support, library access and tutoring. Most schools use Blackboard or another learning-management environment.
Students can consider cosmetology instructor programs that allow certain general education classes to be taken online, with the same basic requirements as those stated above. The core curriculum takes place on campus, and it should include lab time to effectively demonstrate and teach hair and beauty techniques.

List of Online Cosmetology Instructor Programs

Associate of Cosmetology Business

Designed by cosmetology employers, this program offers a look at the business side of the profession. Students explore fundamental business topics that include business communication, small business management, customer service and office professional careers. The program provides a perspective on the global business world, along with practice in the interpersonal skills needed in business relationships. General education courses, such as writing and business math skills, round out the degree.
The business knowledge gained may help students decide whether to become a cosmetology instructor at a college or trade school, where teaching business classes would be part of the curriculum. Previous cosmetology training may earn students credit towards the Associate in Cosmetology Business degree. Program graduates are prepared to take on managerial roles or start their own businesses in the cosmetology industry, in addition to applying for an on-site cosmetology instructor program.

Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology Instructor

While courses on cosmetology-related topics are taught on campus, this program allows students the convenience of taking a few of the required general education classes online. Topics among these may include algebra, U.S government and fundamentals of sociology. These classes are provided through lectures, discussions and assignments online.
Professors teach the cosmetology instructor portion of the program on campus. They feature training on how to teach, including managing and leading a classroom, teaching methods, lesson planning and learning theories. Classes also emphasize communication skills. Additional courses cover state laws concerning hygiene, safety and other aspects of working with the public. Graduates will be prepared to apply for entry-level teaching positions.