Barbering
Associate Degree
A.S. in Cosmetology
The course of study meets guidelines implemented by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is designed to train students to become a licensed professional within the cosmetology industry. Students will receive a certificate of completion and have an option to earn an Associate of Science Degree. The program requires a minimum 1000 hours (2 semesters) of training and the completion of program required operational credits. Students will receive a Proof of Training to take the BBC written Exam to become a licensed cosmetology professional. Training includes the implementation of health and safety, disinfecting, sanitation and sterilization. Included are subjects in science as they relate to the field. Areas of study include, chemistry, bacteriology, micro-biology, hair structure, electricity, salon business, effective communication, professional development, customer relations, hair styling, thermal styling, hair cutting, hair coloring, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, various facial procedures, manicure, pedicure techniques, current trends, and state board rules and regulations.
Required is the completion of the prerequisite COSM 100 course with a grade of "C" or better within a 2-year period, prior to the beginning semester.
In COSM 100, students will be introduced to the cosmetology and nail technology programs that are offered by the cosmetology department. The course is designed to provide students a clear understanding of program rules, regulations, procedures, and requirements. Included are the policies of the Sacramento City College, the SCC Campus Student Code of Conduct and the introduction of campus services, such as EOPS, Financial Aid, CalWorks Counseling, DSPS, and Campus Police. In addition, students will be introduced to customer relations, professionalism, and team building.
Procedures: Prospective students must complete the required prerequisite COSM 100 class, with a passing grade of a “C” or better. During this course, students will designate a preference and priority for either Cosmetology or Barbering programs. These students will be randomized and added to the current list of students waiting for acceptance into their program of choice. Once students are notified about their acceptance into the program, they will need to complete the following to successfully enter the program; use permission numbers provided by program to successfully enroll, deposit 100% of required funds for mandatory kits by date indicated on acceptance email for both tasks. Students failing to do this by date indicated on acceptance email, will have their program acceptance revoked, and these students will be placed back on top of priority enrollment list for possible acceptance in the next cohort.
Spring COSM 115/COSM 117 day
Spring COSM 150/COSM 151 day
Fall COSM 115/COSM 117 day
Fall COSM 150/COSM 151 day
Recommended High School Preparation: English, math, art, basic anatomy and physiology, and basic chemistry.
Prospective students must have completed the 10th grade.
Program Costs: Approximately $3,700.00 is estimated for the beginning cosmetology semester and approximately $2,500.00 is estimated for the nail technology semester; for the textbook package, kit, and uniforms, shoes, personal supplies, and materials. The SCC Cosmetology Department recommends the purchase of the hardcover or digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab”, the SCC Cosmetology or Nail Technology kit and uniforms by the first day of class. In addition, there will be costs each semester of the cosmetology program for: uniforms, program materials, and supplies, etc. The cosmetology and nail technology kits, textbook package, and some uniform items are available at the SCC College Store. Students who anticipate that these costs may create a financial burden should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance, as soon as possible. Students need to apply for financial aid at least one semester prior to the start of the program.
Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2025
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Enrollment Eligibility: | ||
| COSM 100 | Introduction to Cosmetology | 2 |
| First full semester: | ||
| COSM 115 | Technical and Theoretical Principles - Lecture | 5 |
| COSM 117 | Basic Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory | 10 |
| Second full semester: | ||
| COSM 135 | Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Theory | 7.5 |
| COSM 137 | Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory | 7.5 |
| Total Units: | 32 | |
The Cosmetology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See SCC graduation requirements.
Enrollment Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Be 16 years of age and have completed the 10th grade.
- Have completed the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better.
Enrollment Process
Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:
- By completing the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better, within a 2 year period of starting the program.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- apply technical knowledge and practical skills relating to the salon workplace.
- utilize specialized learning and mastery connecting to the California State Board Exam.
- analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying experience, knowledge, and communication skills in customer relations, professionalism, salon business, and management.
- measure salon readiness through acquired skills and evaluation.
- formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to apply to the field of cosmetology.
- incorporate and build on practical skills and the quality of their valuable work using the functional textbook study guide rubric self-assessment scale, available per chapter lesson.
- complete all practical and operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Exam.
- extend and build on their theological knowledge and the quality of the foundation relating to their practical work using the textbook study guide Rubik's self-assessment scale.
- identify operational, technical sequential skills needed to be successful in the salon workplace and to pass the California State Board Written Exam.
- define California State Board Rules and Regulations, sanitation, disinfection, client protection, health, and safety as it pertains to the salon workplace and the California State Board Written Exam.
- complete all theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.
- apply science related subjects to the technical and practical skills learned.
Career Information
There is a broad spectrum of careers for a licensed cosmetology professional. Many are self-employed, while others are employed in large or small establishments. A cosmetologist may work in the entertainment industry or specialize as a platform artist, hair colorist, hairstylist or hair cutting specialist. Many are salon owners, managers or educators. The field provides an opportunity to travel all over the world representing hair, cosmetic, nail, and skincare manufactures.
Certificate of Achievement
Cosmetology Certificate
The course of study meets guidelines implemented by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. It is designed to train students to become a licensed professional within the cosmetology industry. Students will receive a certificate of completion and have an option to earn an Associate of Science Degree. The program requires a minimum 1000 hours (2 semesters) of training and the completion of program required operational credits. Students will receive a Proof of Training to take the BBC written Exam to become a licensed cosmetology professional. Training includes the implementation of health and safety, disinfecting, sanitation and sterilization. Included are subjects in science as they relate to the field. Areas of study include, chemistry, bacteriology, micro-biology, hair structure, electricity, salon business, effective communication, professional development, customer relations, hair styling, thermal styling, hair cutting, hair coloring, permanent waving, chemical relaxing, various facial procedures, manicure, pedicure techniques, current trends, and state board rules and regulations.
Required is the completion of the prerequisite COSM 100 course with a grade of "C" or better within a 2-year period, prior to the beginning semester.
In COSM 100, students will be introduced to the cosmetology and nail technology programs that are offered by the cosmetology department. The course is designed to provide students a clear understanding of program rules, regulations, procedures, and requirements. Included are the policies of the Sacramento City College, the SCC Campus Student Code of Conduct and the introduction of campus services, such as EOPS, Financial Aid, CalWorks Counseling, DSPS, and Campus Police. In addition, students will be introduced to customer relations, professionalism, and team building.
Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.
Procedures: Prospective students must complete the required prerequisite COSM 100 class, with a passing grade of a “C” or better. During this course, students will designate a preference and priority for either Cosmetology or Barbering programs. These students will be randomized and added to the current list of students waiting for acceptance into their program of choice. Once students are notified about their acceptance into the program, they will need to complete the following to successfully enter the program; use permission numbers provided by program to successfully enroll, deposit 100% of required funds for mandatory kits by date indicated on acceptance email for both tasks. Students failing to do this by date indicated on acceptance email, will have their program acceptance revoked, and these students will be placed back on top of priority enrollment list for possible acceptance in the next cohort.
Spring COSM 115/COSM 117 day
Spring COSM 150/COSM 151 day
Fall COSM 115/COSM 117 day
Fall COSM 150/COSM 151 day
Recommended High School Preparation: English, math, art, basic anatomy and physiology, and basic chemistry.
Prospective students must have completed the 10th grade.
Program Costs: Approximately $3,700.00 is estimated for the beginning cosmetology semester and approximately $2,500.00 is estimated for the nail technology semester; for the textbook package, kit, and uniforms, shoes, personal supplies, and materials. The SCC Cosmetology Department recommends the purchase of the hardcover or digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab”, the SCC Cosmetology or Nail Technology kit and uniforms by the first day of class. In addition, there will be costs each semester of the cosmetology program for: uniforms, program materials, and supplies, etc. The cosmetology and nail technology kits, textbook package, and some uniform items are available at the SCC College Store. Students who anticipate that these costs may create a financial burden should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance, as soon as possible. Students need to apply for financial aid at least one semester prior to the start of the program.
Transfer students from another cosmetology or nail technology program (public or private) must complete COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better, then be evaluated for appropriate course placement by the cosmetology faculty, upon producing their California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology “Proof of Training” document.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2025
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| COSM 100 | Introduction to Cosmetology | 2 |
| COSM 115 | Technical and Theoretical Principles - Lecture | 5 |
| COSM 117 | Basic Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory | 10 |
| COSM 135 | Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Theory | 7.5 |
| COSM 137 | Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory | 7.5 |
| Total Units: | 32 |
Enrollment Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Be 16 years of age and have completed the 10th grade.
- Have completed the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better
Enrollment Process
Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:
- Completed the COSM 100 prerequisite course with a grade of a "C" or better.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- apply technical knowledge and practical skills relating to the salon workplace.
- utilize specialized learning and mastery connecting to the California State Board Exam.
- analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying experience, knowledge, and skills in professionalism, salon business, and management.
- measure salon readiness through acquired skills and evaluation.
- formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to apply to the field of cosmetology.
- incorporate and build on practical skills and the quality of their valuable work using the functional textbook study guide rubric self-assessment scale, available per chapter lesson.
- complete all practical and operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Exam.
- extend and build on their theological knowledge and the quality of the foundation relating to their practical work using the textbook study guide Rubik's self-assessment scale.
- identify operational, technical sequential skills needed to be successful in the salon workplace and to pass the California State Board Written Exam.
- define California State Board Rules and Regulations, sanitation, disinfection, client protection, health, and safety as it pertains to the salon workplace and the California State Board Written Exam.
- complete all theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.
- apply science related subjects to the technical and practical skills learned.
Career Information
Cosmetologists are employed all over the world. Many are salon owners, managers and self- employed, while others may be employed by large or small establishments. A cosmetologist may specialize as a hairstylist, hair colorist, hair cutting specialist, texture specialist, platform artist, educator, legally sit for the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology as an expert witness and/or travel all over the world, representing industry product manufactures. It is an exciting and ever changing industry with many opportunities.
Barbering (BAR) Courses
BAR 100 Introduction to Barbering
- Units:2
- Hours:36 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
Students will receive training in customer relations and professional behavior and appearance. The course also includes an introduction to the basic skills in Barbering course work. A final grade of "C" or better is necessary to move on to BAR 115, 117, 135, and 137. Students may also move on to COSM 150 and 151.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- assess what the Barbering program entails prior to a full-time commitment.
- recognize the personal skills required to succeed.
- correlate the total concept of salon services and expectations when they enter the working environment.
- formulate basic skills for good working habits in the physical aspect of our program.
- possess skills necessary for successful interaction with fellow workers and clientele.
BAR 115 Foundations
- Units:5
- Hours:90 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:BAR 100; with a grade of "P"
- Corequisite:BAR 117
- Enrollment Limitation:California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Business and Professions Code Section 7321 provides that a student: (a) is not less than 17 years of age, (b) has completed the 10th grade in the public schools of this state or its equivalent.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course provides a barbering program orientation, with instruction on life skills, hazardous substances, basic labor laws, and physical and sexual assault awareness. Technical and theoretical knowledge is covered as it directly relates to the basic skills of all phases of barbering. The course material includes subjects in first aid, bacteriology, disinfecting, sanitation, decontamination, health and safety, electricity, haircutting, chemistry, hair coloring and lightening, hair structure, the pH scale, and anatomy and physiology. SCC Cosmetology Department requires the purchase of the digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab.” This course requires all necessary examinations to be passed at 75% or higher and a minimum of 500 lecture and lab hours completed in BAR 115 and 117 combined to advance to the next level.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) Rules and Regulations in relation to health, safety, and client protection.
- describe sequential steps in the application of technical knowledge that is related to various barbering fundamental skills.
- apply theoretical knowledge to the application of practical skills in barbering.
- describe the proper decontamination methods used for sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization within the industry as regulated by the BBC.
- demonstrate knowledge on hazardous substances, basic labor laws, and physical and sexual assault awareness.
- define theoretical knowledge to the application of practical skills in barbering.
BAR 117 Basic Skill Building in Barbering - Laboratory
- Units:10
- Hours:540 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:BAR 100; with a grade of "P"
- Corequisite:BAR 115
- Enrollment Limitation:California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Business and Professions Code Section 7321 provides that a student: (a) is not less than 17 years of age, (b) has completed the 10th grade in the public schools of this state or its equivalent.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course encompasses individual and group instruction so that students can obtain knowledge and build a foundation in the basic practical skills of all barbering industry-related procedures. The course emphasizes student comprehension and practice of disinfecting, sanitation and decontamination, and health and safety standards required by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Topics covered in this course are health and safety, disinfection and sanitation, chemical hair services, hairstyling services, and shaving and trimming of the beard. The course includes a lab fee of $200. This course requires the necessary examinations to be passed at 75% or higher for a proof of training document to test for The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology license. Students are required to participate in taking clients and working in the dispensary. Refusing this portion of the course will result in a loss of hours and possible dismissal from the program. SCC Cosmetology Department requires the purchase of the digital version of the Pivot Point textbook package and computer program “The Lab.” A minimum of 500 lecture and lab between BAR 115 and Bar 117 hours is required for advancement to the next level.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge, build retention, and have the ability to recall sequential steps in all practical applications learned.
- identify the proper use, clean-up, disinfecting, and sanitation of implements, materials, and equipment used in various areas of the barbering industry.
- develop skills with continual practice while improving hand movement, dexterity, mind, and body coordination.
- apply knowledge learned in developing basic practical skills that are directed at achieving proficiency at an intermediate level.
BAR 135 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Barbering
- Units:7.5
- Hours:135 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:BAR 100, 115, and 117 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:BAR 137
- Enrollment Limitation:California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Business and Professions Code Section 7321 provides that a student: (a) is not less than 17 years of age, (b) has completed the 10th grade in the public schools of this state or its equivalent. Students must have a minimum of 500 hours to enter this course.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course provides a barbering program orientation, with instruction on life skills, hazardous substances, basic labor laws, and physical and sexual assault awareness. Technical and theoretical knowledge is covered as it directly relates to the basic skills of all phases of barbering. The course material includes subjects in first aid, bacteriology, disinfecting, sanitation, decontamination, health and safety, electricity, haircutting, chemistry, hair coloring and lightening, hair structure, the pH scale, and anatomy and physiology. This course requires all necessary examinations to be passed at 75% or higher for a proof of training document to test for The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology license.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) Rules and Regulations in relation to health, safety, and client protection.
- describe sequential steps in the application of technical knowledge that is related to various barbering fundamental skills.
- apply theoretical knowledge to the application of practical skills in barbering.
- describe the proper decontamination methods used for sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization within the industry as regulated by the BBC.
- demonstrate knowledge on hazardous substances, basic labor laws, and physical and sexual assault awareness.
- define theoretical knowledge to the application of practical skills in barbering.
BAR 137 Advanced Skill Building
- Units:7.5
- Hours:405 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:BAR 100, 115, and 117 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:BAR 135
- Enrollment Limitation:California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Business and Professions Code Section 7321 provides that a student: (a) is not less than 17 years of age, (b) has completed the 10th grade in the public schools of this state or its equivalent. Students must have a minimum of 500 hours to enter this course.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course encompasses all areas of the practical portion of barbering related to the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology examination. Particular emphasis is placed on professionalism, salon management, the Cosmetology Act, and the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Rules and Regulations. The course specifically focuses on the senior student who will enter the business world at the end of the semester. The course includes a lab fee of $200. This course requires the necessary examinations to be passed at 75% or higher for a proof of training document to test for The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology license. Students are required to participate in taking clients, working in the dispensary, and refusing this portion of the course, which will result in a loss of hours, and possible dismissal of the program.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- apply technical knowledge and practical skills relating to the salon workplace.
- utilize specialized learning and dexterity connecting to the California State Board Exam.
- analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying experience, knowledge, and skills in professionalism, salon business, and management.
- measure salon readiness through acquired skills and evaluation.
- formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to apply to the field of barbering.
- identify and build on practical skills and the quality of their valuable work using the functional textbook study guide rubric self-assessment scale, available per chapter lesson.
BAR 299 Experimental Offering in Barbering
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.
BAR 499 Experimental Offering in Barbering
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.