The Cosmetology program is a hands-on program that covers safety procedures in salon environments, the principles of hair design, nail structures, cosmetic application, and the chemistry of hair color and texture service application. Students in Cosmetology will build knowledge and develop skills through classroom instruction and practical learning experiences related to a variety of beauty treatments, including the care and beautification of the hair, complexion, and hands. This includes, but is not limited to, shampoos, rinses, scalp treatments, hair styling, setting, cutting, tinting, decolorizing, chemical texturing services, special effects hair coloring, facials, manicures, hand and arm massages, bacteriology, anatomy, hygiene, sanitation, and salon management. Safety and customer relations are also emphasized throughout the program. This program is designed to help the student master all the skills necessary for passing the State Board Examination, selecting the phase or phases of Cosmetology in which to specialize, and entering employment.

• Regis Corporation

• Great Clips

• Ulta Beauty

• Sally Beauty Supply

• SmartStyle Hair Salon

• MasterCuts

• Sport Clips

• J. Christene AVEDA Salon

Cosmetology is designed to prepare students for careers in the personal care industry, including hair stylist, colorist, nail technician, and esthetics. The average annual salary for a cosmetologist is $25,000-$55,000. There are 10,750 cosmetologists currently employed in the Tri-Cities area with 1,420 current openings per year.

Students can earn 120 hours per semester towards their TCAT Diploma in Cosmetology (Total clock hours required for TCAT diploma: 1,500). The program is taught by a THS teacher. Students who excel in the program in high school will be able to skip the waiting list for this program at TCAT after graduation from THS.

Upon completion of the TCAT Diploma, students are eligible to take the Tennessee State Board of Cosmetology examination for a Tennessee Cosmetology License.