Online Training Programs and Courses for Cosmetology Instructors

Programs and courses for cosmetology instructors are not available online due to the necessity for hands-on training. On-campus programs are offered at technical or community colleges and are typically designed for licensed cosmetologists.

Overview of Programs and Courses for Cosmetology Instructors

Cosmetology instructors give aspiring cosmetologists the training necessary to pass state licensing board examinations. Cosmetology licensing requirements vary by state, and most cosmetology instructor programs are restricted to licensed cosmetologists with professional experience. Online training for instructors is rarely available due to the importance of hands-on and supervised experience. On-campus programs feature a mix of classroom instruction and practicum experience, often in the school's salon.
Generally, programs award a certificate upon completion which may be used to fulfill requirements for a state's cosmetology instructor examination. Completion of a cosmetology instructor program can lead to employment as an instructor at both private and public institutions or at a salon.

Course Requirements

Programs generally have prerequisites for enrollment which include a cosmetology license and professional experience. Programs may include a practicum component with hands-on training in a classroom or salon setting. Because of this need for in-person experience, programs are only offered on-campus.

List of Cosmetology Instructor Courses

Instructor Theory Course

In this course, students learn teaching methods, theories of instruction and supervision methods. Emphasis is placed on projecting a professional image and communicating effectively.

Salon Management Course

Students cover various administrative duties and legal issues arising in salon management, such as sterilization and sanitation laws. Employee management and customer service skills are also taught in this course.

Curriculum Planning Course

This course offers an overview on the successful development of cosmetology lesson plans. Students learn how to build a lesson plan using tools such as visual aids and demonstrations.

Testing Course

Testing practices are comprehensively studied in this course with emphasis placed on examination planning, proctoring and scoring. Coursework also covers special learner needs and academic policy.

Practicum Course

This course, which usually takes place toward the end of a series courses, is designed to give students hands-on experience in a laboratory or salon setting with instructor feedback. The class focuses on the implementation of instructional skills for cosmetology and reviews topics covered in state licensing examinations.