How do I get started in CNCC's Cosmetology Program?

Step 1:  Before you make any decisions, please read the format of our programs to get an idea of the hours required for each and which one might best suit your schedule.

Step 2: Fill out an online application, or visit your local CNCC admissions office and fill out an application.

Step 3: If you are applying for the Cosmetology Program, apply online for financial aid, or sign up at your local CNCC admissions office. (The Nail Technician and Esthetics Programs have been approved for financial aid.)

Step 4: Visit your local CNCC admissions office, and sign up to take the placement test. Or you can call the Cosmetology Center and schedule your placement test there. The phone number is 826-2762. If you submit your ACT scores, or have prior college transcripts sent, check with the Registrar to see if you may be exempt from testing. Every student without the aforementioned exemptions, however, must take the placement test BEFORE they can enter the Cosmetology program.

Step 5: After you apply, sign up for financial aid and take your Accuplacer placement test, you will be ready to buy your books and kit. These items are at the CNCC Craig Campus Bookstore. You may call the bookstore at #970-824-1124 for the exact prices.

Below is a list to answer some of the questions you might have about each program area's required class hours.

Full-time students attend school Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the second Saturday (optional) of the month.

Part-time students attend school Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

The Cosmetology Program is a required 60 Credit Hours and 1800 Clock hours.
The Cosmetology program is for the student who desires to learn all aspects of the beauty industry. It includes skin care, nail care, and hair care.

The Manicurist program is a required 20 credit hours and 600 clock hours.
The Manicurist program is for the student who desires to specialize strictly in nail care, manicures, pedicures, and hair removal (waxing) below the elbows on the arms and below the knee on the legs.

The Hairstylist program is a required 40 credits and 1200 hours.
The Hairstylist program is for the student who desires to specialize strictly in the function of dressing hair. It includes permanent waves, hair straightening, hairstyling and color dimension. (Please note: Hairstylist licensing is not allowed in some states.)

The Esthetician program is a required 600 hours.
The Esthetic program is for the student who desires to specialize strictly in the skin care industry. Skin care is included in the services of the spa industry. It includes makeup, hair removal and preventative skin care.