Cosmetology

Apply Today! SPRING 2026 REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 3 AT 8:30AM

Whether it’s up-dos, asymmetrical cuts, color, perm, blow-outs, manis, pedis, or a throwback bee hive, as a Cosmetologist you are the last word in style. RVCC’s salon-focused approach teaches you the skills and attitude to be successful by working with actual clients. Students receive additional training from local salons enhancing their knowledge and skills in alignment with current trends.

Protege Salon Services

Our industry partnerships, job shadowing, and internship programs are why we continue to have outstanding pass rates on the NJ State Licensing Exam. The demand for qualified stylists is growing. Begin your Cosmetology career today.

Local job placement assistance and financial aid available.

March 16, 2026-January 28, 2027
Cosmetology - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am-4:30pm and Wednesday 9am-1:30pm

Contact BPenrollment@raritanval.edu
908-526-1200 x8471

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Cosmetology New Jersey State Board Theory Exam Pass Rates:

Year	Taken	Passed	Pass Percentage
2020*	10	10	100%
2021	20	20	100%
2022	23	21	91%
Overall Percentage	53	51	96%

* Due to the pandemic testing was postponed for most of 2020

Curriculum
Requirements
Checklist

COSM 110

Cosmetology Foundation

In this introductory class you’ll be taught the basic skills and techniques to get you ready for working on real clients in your next class. This course covers:

Industry Orientation and Your Professional Success
Shampooing, Hair & Scalp Care
Decontamination & Infection Control
Introduction to Haircutting and Hairstyling
Thermal Styling, Hair Design and Extensions
Makeup

This course also includes the classwork on applied anatomy and chemistry as it relates to each unit.

COSM 130

Cosmetology Advanced

This advanced course is designed not only to prepare you to successfully pass your state licensure exams, but to be ready for work in a salon. At 600 hours you may be eligible to work in a salon with a student permit. During this course, you will demonstrate knowledge of:

Barbering, Men's Haircutting
Hair coloring
Chemical Texturizing
Spa Services: Hair Removal, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures
The Salon Business Today
NJ Laws & Licensing & State Board Preparation

This course also includes the classwork on applied anatomy and chemistry as it relates to each unit.

Prerequisite: COSM 110

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION:

1.   Complete the steps on the checklist.
2.   Able to lift 25 lbs.
3.   Able to stand for extended periods of time.
4.   Readiness to complete payments on time.
5. Complete two health physicals within an 11 month period as required by the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hair Styling

Students in need of accommodations are encouraged to do so in advance. Please contact the Center for Accessibility and Inclusive Education at caie@raritanval.edu or (908) 526-1200 ext. 8534.

Cosmetology Program Checklist

Check each item below as you complete requirement(s).

Complete an Application for Admission.
If you have completed an application in the past 3 years, you must change your major selection to Cosmetology.
Cosmetology students do not need to take the placement tests and attend the First-Year Registration Session.
Financial Aid. If you seek financial aid you must complete the FAFSA form at studentaid.gov as soon as possible. For more information, consult the RVCC Financial Aid website. Allow two weeks for processing.
Attend an Information Session. The session will explain in detail about the program and give you a chance to ask questions. Dates, times and locations can be found at www.raritanval.edu.
Submit official final high school transcript after graduation, which indicates date of graduation and has the official high school seal, in an unopened envelope or a GED Score Report or diploma to the Admissions Office, PO Box. 3300, Somerville, NJ 08876-1265.
Submit previous college official transcript(s) if any, to the Office of Enrollment Services, PO Box. 3300, Somerville, NJ 08876-1265.
Submit immunization record. Submit to the Admissions Office that you’ve had two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) and three doses of Hepatitis B vaccinations in accordance with State of New Jersey immunization requirements. Click here for more information on immunization and to download a form for your doctor.
Register for Course: Student will need to have the CRN (Course Registration Number) and course name to register.
Attend an orientation session
Course Payment: Payment is due before the start of class. If you are seeking Financial Aid, loans or a payment plan, the first payment or guarantee of funding must be in place and recognized by our Finance Office by the start of class.