Train for a Career in Beauty

Considered the premier beauty license, cosmetology encompasses all aspects of the beauty industry. From hair cutting and coloring to nail care, skincare, makeup, and barbering, this program provides comprehensive training and state board preparation to help you launch a rewarding career in the salon and beauty profession.

Everything You Need to Know

1,200 hours completed over 10 months

Full-time program

Program Cost: $17,963

Financial aid options available

Local employment assistance available

Includes NJ State Board exam preparation

Alt text: The Protégé Salon at RVCC features a modern, professional salon environment with styling stations, salon chairs, comfortable seating, and contemporary décor, providing students with hands-on training in a real-world salon setting.

Gain Real Salon Experience

Practice your skills in a real salon environment before graduation. During the advanced portion of the program, students work with clients in the student-run Protege Salon & Spa, gaining hands-on experience with hair, nail, skincare, and salon services while building confidence and professionalism. This valuable real-world experience helps prepare students for state licensure and employment in the beauty industry.

Train for a Career in Beauty

Considered the premier beauty license, cosmetology encompasses all aspects of the beauty industry. From hair cutting and coloring to nail care, skincare, makeup, and barbering, this program provides comprehensive training and state board preparation to help you launch a rewarding career in the salon and beauty profession.

COSM 110 Foundations (0–600 Hours)

The first half of the program focuses on building the theoretical knowledge and technical skills needed to obtain your student permit and begin working with clients.

Students learn:

  • Industry orientation and career opportunities
  • Hair and scalp properties
  • Hair and scalp disorders and diseases
  • Shampooing, hair and scalp care
  • Decontamination and infection control
  • Haircutting fundamentals
  • Hair coloring fundamentals
  • Hairstyling and thermal styling
  • Nail structure, growth, and disorders
  • Manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements
  • Professional image and workplace expectations
  • Communication and durable skills
  • NJ State Board exam preparation

COSM 130 Advanced (601–1200 Hours)

The advanced portion of the program is designed to prepare students for state licensure and employment in a professional salon environment.

Students gain hands-on experience working with clients in the student-run Protege Salon & Spa while advancing their skills in:

  • Barbering and men’s haircutting
  • Advanced hair coloring techniques
  • Chemical texturizing services
  • Hair removal services
  • Facials and skincare treatments
  • Manicures and pedicures
  • Salon business operations
  • NJ laws, licensing, and state board preparation
  • Professional and durable workplace skills
Outside of the Workforce Training Center, two story building

Ready to Start Your Beauty Career?

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Suggested image: Cosmetology student consulting with a client.

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Have questions about enrollment, financial aid, or program requirements? Our team is here to help you take the next step toward a career in the beauty industry.

Enrollment & Course Questions
Mariana Rodriguez Garcia
BPEnrollment@raritanval.edu
908-526-1200 ext. 8471

All Other Inquiries
Amy Layton
Amy.Layton@raritanval.edu
908-526-1200 ext. 6818