Cosmetology
At Iowa Lakes, we prepare students for careers in the health and beauty industry as licensed cosmetologists and professional stylists. Future beauty professionals are guided by skilled and experienced instructors, many of whom bring years of practical, on-the-ground salon experience to the classroom. Through the two-year Associate in Applied Science program, students take on more advanced techniques and build not only real-world skills, but the confidence to succeed in their career.
Foundational courses focus on the fundamentals of cutting, coloring and styling and are supported by practical education in communication, math and overviews in anatomy and physiology. Students gain an education that will prepare them for their state license.
As students progress through the cosmetology program, classroom lectures and demonstrations move to the most important part, hands-on training, including advanced haircutting for men and women, color mixing and application and more. Additionally, Iowa Lakes’ comprehensive program covers communication skills, human resources and salon management that teach skills and performance strategies that are necessary for a successful career.
You will take courses such as:
- Practical Cosmetology Skills
- Chemical Services
- Legal Aspects of Cosmetology
- Care of Skin and Scalp
- Haircutting and Styling Techniques
The Cosmetology AAS Degree Program, Emmetsburg Campus, is accredited by the Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, IDPH/Bureau of Professional Licensure.
Board of Cosmetology Arts and Science
IDPH/Bureau of Professional Licensure
5th Floor, Lucas State Office Building
321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
Email: PLPublic@idph.iowa.govcreate new email
Phone: 515-281-0254
Fax: 515-281-3121
Bureau Website: opens in a new windowwww.idph.iowa.gov/licensure
Online Licensure Services: https://idph.iowa.gov/Licensure/Iowa-Board-of-Cosmetology-Arts-and-Sciences
This program prepares the student for licensure in Iowa. Iowa Lakes Community College Cosmetology Program has not made a determination as to whether the program curriculum meets all other state’s educational requirements for licensure or certification. If you wish to work outside the state of Iowa please contact the state agency in which you hope to work for details about licensure or certification.
Faculty Contact
 |
Laurie Pearson Cosmetology Program Coordinator & Instructor 712-852-5277 | lpearson@iowalakes.educreate new email |
Program Details
Did You Know?
Curriculum
Term 1
COS 111 – Cosmetology Theory I
This first course, also known as basic training, is required before advancement in Cosmetology. This course is designed to introduce and develop an understanding of the various realms of cosmetology. Students will develop skills relating to haircutting, haircoloring, hairstyling, nail techniques, and personal growth. Students will cultivate their passions within the field of cosmetology.
COS 159 – Practical Cosmetology Skills I
This first practicum in cosmetology is required before advancement in the program. The student will demonstrate proper hygiene, good grooming, sanitation techniques, and basic cosmetology procedures. Protection of the student and public are emphasized.
Corequisites: COS 110 – Basic Principles in Cosmetology
BIO 163 – Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology
Structure and function of the human body with emphasis on cells, tissues and all major organ systems. Anatomy and physiology are integrated at the cellular level and at the organ/system level. Lecture and laboratory.
Term 2
COS 117 – Cosmetology Theory II
Theory II continues to build student knowledge and abilities in the salon. Students will develop skills relating to haircutting, hair coloring, hairstyling, nail techniques, facials, and makeup application. Students will also engage with clients, developing the necessary skills to be a successful cosmetologist.
COS 118 – Applied Cosmetology Skills II
This is the second practicum in Cosmetology. Students will practice skills in haircutting, haircoloring, hairstyling, nail techniques, sanitation, and facials. Students will cultivate their passion within the field of cosmetology. Students will also engage with clients, developing the necessary skills to be a successful cosmetologist.
BUS 161 – Human Relations†
Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.
Term 3
COS 130 – Cosmetology Theory III
Cosmetology Theory III continues to build student knowledge of salon services, the scope of practice, proper sanitation procedures, and salon management.
Prerequisite: COS 117 – Cosmetology Theory II
COS 172 – Practical Cosmetology Skills III
Practical Cosmetology Skills III continues to provide student practice with salon services, the scope of practice, proper sanitation procedures, and salon management.
Prerequisite: COS 118 – Applied Cosmetology Skills II
MAT 770 – Applied Math
A review of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, linear and angular measurements and common formulas used in each particular industry.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score
MAT 110 – Math for Liberal Arts
This is a general survey course which includes sets; number systems; elementary algebra; exponents; equations and inequalities; fractions; ratios; proportion and variation; probability and statistics; elementary graphing; consumer mathematics; and an introduction to geometry.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score
Choose either MAT 770 or MAT 110
Term 4
COS 120 – Applied Cosmetology Skills IV
Skills IV continues to build student abilities in the salon. Students will practice skills relating to haircutting, haircoloring, hairstyling, nail techniques, facials, and makeup application. Students will also engage with clients, developing the necessary skills to be a successful cosmetologist.
Prerequisites: COS 130 – Cosmetology Theory III & COS 172 – Practical Cosmetology Skills III
Corequisite: COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory IV
COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory IV
Theory IV continues to build student knowledge and abilities in the salon. Students will master theory concepts relating to haircutting, haircoloring, hairstyling, nail techniques, facials, and makeup application. Students will also learn to engage with clients, developing the necessary knowledge to be a successful cosmetologist.
Prerequisites: COS 130 – Cosmetology Theory III & COS 172 – Practical Cosmetology Skills III
Corequisite: COS 120 – Applied Cosmetology Skills IV
COS 176 – Preceptorship
This preceptorship provides a student additional development in a professional salon under the supervision and guidance of a practicing licensed cosmetologist. Hands-on business learning, client relationships, and salon procedures are a few exciting aspects within a positive functioning salon.
Prerequisites: COS 130 – Cosmetology Theory III & COS 172 – Practical Cosmetology Skills III
Corequisites: COS 120 – Applied Cosmetology Skills IV & COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory IV
COM 723 – Workplace Communications†
Developing skills in reading, writing and listening as they apply to students’ vocational needs.
ENG 105 – Composition I
Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET,COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy
Choose either COM 723 or ENG 105
Term 5
COS 132 – Cosmetology Theory V
Theory V presents basic business principles for the cosmetology profession and continues to build on practical skills needed to be a successful cosmetologist.
Prerequisites: COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory III & COS 176 – Preceptorship
Corequisites: COS 173 – Practical Cosmetology Skills V & COS 175 – Comprehensive Cosmetology Review
COS 173 – Practical Cosmetology Skills V
Practical Cosmetology Skills V continues building basic business principles for the cosmetology profession and knowledge to empower the student to be successful in salon ownership. Students also continue to build on practical skills needed to be a successful cosmetologist.
Prerequisites: COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory IV, COS 120 – Applied Cosmetology Skills IV & COS 176 – Preceptorship
Corequisites: COS 132 – Cosmetology Theory V & COS 175 – Comprehensive Cosmetology Review
COS 175 – Comprehensive Cosmetology Review
This course is designed to prepare students for the Iowa Licensure Exam.
Prerequisites: COS 131 – Cosmetology Theory IV, COS 120 – Applied Cosmetology Skills IV & COS 176 – Preceptorship
Corequisites: COS 132 – Cosmetology Theory V & COS 173 – Practical Cosmetology Skills V
MKT 162 – Retail Merchandising
Techniques and procedures used in determining profits, pricing of goods, inventories and merchandise control. Typical problems faced by merchandisers are presented, analyzed and solved.
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.
