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Credit Programs

Cosmetology

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  • Degrees & Pathways
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  • Southern Wake Campus Salon
  • Vernon Malone Salon
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Program ContactMaribel Jefferies
[email protected]
919-334-1588
Degrees & Pathways
AAS - Associate in Applied Science
Diploma
Document(s):
  • Limited-Enrollment Form (for Advisors)
  • Check Waitlist Status (for Students)

The Cosmetology curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific/artistic principles and hands-on fundamentals associated with the cosmetology industry. The curriculum provides a simulated salon environment that enables students to develop manipulative skills.

Course work includes instruction in all phases of the following:

  • Professional imaging
  • Hair design
  • Chemical processes
  • Skin care
  • Nail care
  • Multicultural practices
  • Business/computer principles
  • Product knowledge
  • Other selected topics

Graduates should qualify to sit for the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts examination. Upon successfully passing the State Board exam, graduates will be issued a license. Employment is available in beauty salons and related businesses.

Apply now

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Limited-enrollment program

Cosmetology is a limited-enrollment program with unique admission requirements, policies, procedures, schedules and deadlines. Interested applicants should complete the entire college application process, including placement testing and review with an academic advisor. The advisor will go over essential information and give you a Limited-Enrollment Student Checklist, which outlines and directs you to the next steps. When meeting with your program advisors, be sure to bring your checklist with you. Interested applicants should email [email protected].

Students can enter programs in the Fall or Spring semester by following these steps:

  1. Complete the online Wake Tech application with residency and follow application instructions, including requesting your high school and, if applicable, college transcripts.
  2. Activate your student Key Account and email
  3. Meet with an advisor to discuss course planning, limited-enrollment details and next steps.
  4. When space is available in the program, the department will notify students via email. Upon receiving the email, students will have 72 hours to respond and accept the space. NOTE: If a student does not respond within 72 hours, their space will be offered to the next student on the list.
  5. After acceptance, students will receive an email verifying acceptance into the program along with detailed next steps for enrolling.

Professional licensure

Wake Tech academic programs (credit and non-credit) that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to North Carolina or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside North Carolina once you have completed your academic program at Wake Tech, please refer to the Professional Licensure section of the college's distance education authorization page for additional information.

Career Outlook


  • Spa Manager
    14803.59
    Starting Salary
    33684.66
    Median Annual Wage
    22%
    Growth*
  • First-Line Supervisor of Entertainment and Recreation Workers, Except Gambling Services
    32905.38
    Starting Salary
    46863.83
    Median Annual Wage
    10%
    Growth*
  • Hairdresser, Hairstylist, or Cosmetologist
    16622.73
    Starting Salary
    34241.31
    Median Annual Wage
    8%
    Growth*
  • Makeup Artist, Theatrical and Performance
    17657.66
    Starting Salary
    62031.70
    Median Annual Wage
    30%
    Growth*
  • Manicurist and Pedicurist
    20926.77
    Starting Salary
    31241.93
    Median Annual Wage
    17%
    Growth*
  • Shampooer
    16239.67
    Starting Salary
    31248.34
    Median Annual Wage
    11%
    Growth*
  • Skincare Specialist
    21133.06
    Starting Salary
    40650.70
    Median Annual Wage
    17%
    Growth*
  • Barber
    12884.90
    Starting Salary
    31049.40
    Median Annual Wage
    14%
    Growth*
USA Wake County *Estimated job growth over 10 years.
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9101 Fayetteville Road, Raleigh, NC 27603
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