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Cosmetology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Cosmetology (COSM) Courses

COSM 100 Introduction to Cosmetology

  • Units:2
  • Hours:36 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Students will receive training in customer relations and professional behavior and appearance. The course also includes an introduction to the basic skills in Cosmetology course work. A final grade of "C" or better is necessary to move on to COSM 115, 117, 135, 137, 140, 150, 151, 152, and 294.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • assess what the Cosmetology 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.

COSM 110 Related Technical Knowledge of the Basic Fundamental Skills

  • Units:5
  • Hours:90 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in COSM 111.
  • 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, 2024

This course provides instruction in technical and theoretical knowledge that directly relates to the basic skills of all phases of cosmetology. The course material includes bacteriology, decontamination, hairstyling, haircutting, hair structure, massage, nail structure, nail disease and disorders, PH scale, permanent waving, color wheel, hair-coloring, and hair lightening.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as it pertains to the various cosmetology practical skills.
  • explain California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Rules and Regulations, Sanitation and Disinfection procedures, and Client Protection, Health and Safety.
  • describe the basic sequential technical knowledge relating to various cosmetology fundamental skills, using the text book study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 1 per each chapter lesson.
  • complete at least 1/3 of the theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.

COSM 111 Basic Foundation of Practical Skills

  • Units:10
  • Hours:540 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in COSM 110.
  • 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, 2024

This course provides instruction for those persons interested in becoming licensed cosmetologists. Individual instruction is given in practical application of the basic skills learned in COSM 110. Emphasis is placed on basic hair coloring, permanent waving, hair styling, hair cutting, manicuring, facials, and make-up. Also covered in the course are: transferring of basic training to intermediate and advanced levels in hairstyling, shaping, thermal curling, and hair straightening.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the proper use, clean-up and care of all implements, instruments and equipment used in the various cosmetology services, i.e. scalp treatments, wet or thermal hairstyling, haircutting, chemical straightening/soft curl restructure, hair coloring, bleaching, facial, manicure, pedicure, and acrylic sculpture nail services.
  • setup a sanitary maintenance area (SMA) for all basic practical operational service, i.e. scalp treatment, wet or thermal hairstyling, haircutting, permanent waving, chemical straightening/soft curl restructure, hair coloring, bleaching, facial, manicure, pedicure or acrylic sculpture nail services.
  • recall sequential steps in application of practical skills and improve and build on their knowledge of retention and quality of practical/operational skills using the text book study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 1, available per chapter lesson.
  • complete at least 1/3 of the practical operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Practical Exam.

COSM 115 Technical and Theoretical Principles - Lecture

  • Units:5
  • Hours:90 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 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, 2024

This course provides a cosmetology 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 cosmetology. 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.

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 cosmetology fundamental skills.
  • apply theoretical knowledge to the application of practical skills in cosmetology.
  • 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.

COSM 117 Basic Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory

  • Units:10
  • Hours:540 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 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, 2024

This course encompasses individual and group instruction so that students can obtain knowledge and build a foundation in the basic practical skills of all cosmetology 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 the first half of the course include skin care, hair removal, eye brow arching, nail technology, haircutting, scalp treatments, thermal and wet hairstyling which will include curl placement, hair shaping, finger waves, and pin curl construction. The second half of the course includes chemical use and procedures in the application of soft curl and permanent waving, sodium hydroxide relaxer, hair coloring, and bleaching. Specialized areas of study in the use of clippers, men’s haircutting and styling, eyelash enhancements, and highlighting methods are also introduced.

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 sterilization of implements, instruments, and equipment used in various areas of the cosmetology 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.

COSM 120 Intermediate Certificate Course Theory

  • Units:5
  • Hours:90 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in COSM 121
  • 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, 2024

This course provides instruction in theoretical knowledge relating to intermediate and advanced levels in all phases of cosmetology: anatomy and physiology, hair styling, cold waving, manicuring, facials, hair coloring, scalp treatment reconditioning, hair cutting, thermal pressing and curling.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology as it pertains to cosmetology practical skills and services.
  • explain knowledge of California State Board Rules and Regulations as it pertains to Sanitation, Disinfection, and Client Protection, Health and Safety.
  • describe the sequential technical knowledge directly relating to various cosmetology skills and services.
  • evaluate the quality of their theory work using the text book study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 2, available per chapter lesson.
  • complete at least 2/3 of the theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.

COSM 121 Intermediate Certificate Course - Laboratory

  • Units:10
  • Hours:540 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 110, and 111 with grades of "C" or better.
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in COSM 120.
  • 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, 2024

This course provides instruction and technical knowledge relating to intermediate and advanced levels in all phases of cosmetology including anatomy and physiology, hair styling, cold waving, manicuring, facials, hair coloring, scalp treatment reconditioning, hair cutting, thermal pressing and curling.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • evaluate the quality of their practical work using the various Rubik self-assessment scale available per chapter lesson.
  • improve and build on their practical skills and the quality of their practical work using the practical textbook study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 2, available per chapter lesson.
  • explain California State Board Rules and Regulation, Sanitation, Disinfection, and Client Protection, Health and Safety as it pertains to the practical services in the salon workplace.
  • complete at least 2/3 of the practical/operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam

COSM 130 Advanced-Certificate Course - Theory

  • Units:5
  • Hours:90 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 110, 111, 120 and 121 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in COSM 131
  • 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, 2024

This course encompasses all areas of the theoretical portion of cosmetology relating to the California State Board of Cosmetology examination. It is designed for the senior student who will enter the business world at the end of the semester. Special emphasis is placed on professionalism, salon management, the Cosmetology Act, and the California State Board of Cosmetology Rules and Regulations.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • improve and build on their theological knowledge and the quality of the foundation relating to their practical work using the textbook study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 3, available per chapter lesson.
  • describe California State Board Rules and Regulations, Sanitation, Disinfection, and Client Protection, Health and Safety as it pertains to the salon workplace and the California State Board Written Exam.
  • recall operational technical sequential skills needed to be successful in the salon workplace and to pass the California State Board Written Exam.
  • complete all of the theory/lecture requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Written Exam.

COSM 131 Advanced-Certificate Course - Laboratory

  • Units:0.5 - 10
  • Hours:27 - 540 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 115, and 117 with grades of "C" or better
  • 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, 2024

This course encompasses all areas of the practical portion of cosmetology relating to the California State Board of Cosmetology examination. It is designed for the senior student who will enter the business world at the end of the semester. Special emphasis is placed on professionalism, salon management, the Cosmetology Act, and the California State Board of Cosmetology Rules and Regulations.

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.
  • analyze situations in the salon workplace by applying basic knowledge and skills in professionalism and salon business and management.
  • improve and build on their practical skills and the quality of their practical work using the practical textbook study guide Rubik self-assessment scale, at no less than level 3 (advanced), available per chapter lesson.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks needed to pass the California State Board Practical Exam.
  • complete all of the practical and operational requirements and hours to take the California State Board Cosmetology Practical Exam.

COSM 135 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Theory

  • Units:7.5
  • Hours:135 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 115, and 117 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 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.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course encompasses all areas of the theoretical portion of cosmetology relating to the California State Board of Cosmetology examination. Particular emphasis on professionalism, salon management, the Cosmetology Act, and the California State Board of Cosmetology Rules and Regulations. There is specific focus on the senior student who will enter the business world at the end of the semester, followed by completing required hours and passing the California State Board written examination.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • extend and build on theoretical 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.

COSM 137 Advanced Specialized Skill Building in Cosmetology - Laboratory

  • Units:7.5
  • Hours:405 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 115, and 117 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 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.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course encompasses all areas of the practical portion of cosmetology relating to the California State Board of Cosmetology examination. Particular emphasis on professionalism, salon management, the Cosmetology Act, and the California State Board of Cosmetology Rules and Regulations. Specific focus on the senior student who will enter the business world at the end of the semester.

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 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.

COSM 140 Supplemental Training

  • Units:1 - 5
  • Hours:54 - 270 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • 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, 2024

This course satisfies the hours and requirements not completed by the student in the COSM 130 and/or COSM 131 course, who want to apply for the Sacramento City College Certificate of Achievement and a California State Board of Cosmetology License.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate written and practical skills in preparation for the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for license.
  • recall and repeat all techniques of the written and practical phases of the California State Board of Cosmetology examination for license.
  • explain the practical operational requirements required by the California State Board of Cosmetology for license.

COSM 141 Skills Building for Cosmetology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100, 110, 111, 120, 121, 130, and 131 with grades of "C" or better
  • 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, 2024

This course satisfies the hours and requirements not completed by the student in the COSM 130 and COSM 131 course, who want to apply for the Sacramento City College Certificate of Achievement and a California State Board of Cosmetology License.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • build on and increase skills already learned and practiced in the beginning, intermediate and advanced courses of the cosmetology program, such as: anatomy, hair styling, cold waving, manicuring, facials, hair coloring, hair cutting, relaxers, press and curling.
  • emphasize techniques in professionalism, problem solving skills, people skills, principles of selling, salon management, Cosmetology Heath and Safety Rules and Cosmetology Acts, Rules and Regulations.

COSM 150 Art and Science of Nail Technology

  • Units:7
  • Hours:126 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 151
  • 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, 2024

This one-semester course provides instruction in theoretical knowledge that directly relates to the beginning, intermediate, and advanced theory training in manicuring and pedicuring. After completion of this course students will be eligible to apply for the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Manicure Examination. The course will include: salon business, effective communication, professional development, customer relations, theory in procedures for basic and spa manicuring and basic and spa pedicuring procedures, nail enhancements (acrylic nail, nail tip, nail wrap, gel polish and gel nail applications) electric file application, and basic nail art design techniques.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate the theoretical knowledge directly relating to basic, intermediate, and advanced techniques in manicuring and pedicuring procedures for the salon workplace.
  • identify skills in nail enhancements that meet industry standards.
  • identify technical knowledge relating to implements, equipment, materials, and nail cosmetics preparation; use, clean-up, and disposal.
  • identify skills learned in the nail technology program pertaining to client interaction, concentrating on client health and safety and client analysis and evaluation of products used in all phases of nail technology.
  • formulate steps required to complete tasks in nail technology procedures needed to pass the California State Board of Cosmetology written and practical examination for the manicuring license.

COSM 151 Art and Science of Nail Technology - Lab

  • Units:5.5
  • Hours:297 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:COSM 150
  • 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, 2024

This one-semester course provides hands-on instruction in technical knowledge that directly relates to the beginning, intermediate, and advanced practical training in manicuring and pedicuring. After completion of this course, students will be eligible to apply for the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Manicure Examination. This course will include procedures for basic and spa manicuring, basic and spa pedicuring, nail enhancements (nail tip, nail fabric wrap, acrylic nail, gel polish and gel nail applications), electric file application, and basic nail art design techniques. Students are required to have a basic manicure kit, including a manikin hand (available for purchase through the college).

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate manicuring and pedicuring procedures effectively for the salon workplace.
  • adapt practical skills in nail enhancements that meet industry standards.
  • demonstrate technical knowledge and practical skills related to implements, equipment, materials and nail cosmetics preparation, use, clean-up and disposal.
  • demonstrate practical skills pertaining to client interaction, concentrating on client health and safety and client analysis, and evaluation of products used in all phases of nail technology services.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks in nail technology procedures needed to pass the California State Board of Cosmetology practical examination for the manicuring license.
  • formulate and demonstrate tasks in health and safety techniques pertaining to nail technology procedures.

COSM 152 Art and Science of Nail Technology - Supplemental Hours

  • Units:1 - 5
  • Hours:54 - 270 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 150 and 151 with grades of "C" or better
  • 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, 2024

This course satisfies the hours and requirements not completed by the student in the COSM 150 or COSM 151 course, who want to apply for the Sacramento City College Career Certificate or a California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Manicure License.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate manicuring and pedicuring procedures effectively for the salon workplace.
  • adapt skills in nail enhancements that meet industry standards.
  • demonstrate technical knowledge and skills relating to implements, equipment, materials, and nail cosmetics preparation, use, clean-up and disposal.
  • emulate skills learned in the nail technology program pertaining to client interaction, concentrating on client health and safety, and client analysis and evaluation of products used in all phases of nail technology.
  • demonstrate basic work skills needed to interact with employers, co-workers, and clients.
  • formulate, demonstrate, and complete tasks in nail technology procedures needed to pass the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology written and practical examination for the manicure license.

COSM 294 Topics in Cosmetology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:COSM 100 with a grade of "C" or better
  • 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, 2024

This course reviews the California State Board of Cosmetology Act, rules and regulations for licensing and establishments, the performance criteria for the written and practical licensing exams, and the latest industry trends, application and procedures.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • develop cosmetology practical techniques and refresh latest information regarding the California State Cosmetology Acts, Rules, and Regulations that are important to success in the salon workplace.
  • adapt practical skills required to meet industry standards.
  • apply professional ethics techniques in relation to the employer, co-worker, and client.

COSM 295 Independent Studies in Cosmetology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • 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, 2024

This course reviews the latest trends in the cosmetology industry and the latest California State Cosmetology Act rules and regulations pertaining to licensing and establishment requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • develop cosmetology practical techniques that are effective in the salon workplace.
  • adapt practical skills required to meet industry standards.
  • apply professional ethics techniques in relation to the employer, co-worker and client.
  • recall latest information on the California State Cosmetology Acts, Rules and Regulations.

COSM 299 Experimental Offering in Cosmetology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.