Cosmetology FAQ

Cosmetologists pull from a well-rounded understanding of beauty, including hair, skin, and nails, to help clients look and feel their best. Between 2021 and 2031, an estimated 89,400 positions in the field are projected to open each year for barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists. In just over a year of training at The School of Cosmetology at Delta Technical College, we can help you put your passion into practice, giving you the tools to succeed in the world of cosmetology.

The cosmetologist is a licensed professional trained in the art of beautifying skin, hair, and nails. While some cosmetologists provide a broad range of services, others specialize in fields ranging from hair coloring to manicuring to salon management.

To learn more about cosmetology as a career, check out Why is Cosmetology Considered a Trade?

The median hourly wage for hairdressers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists was $16.01 as of May 2022, but the highest 10 percent earned more than $28.88 per hour.

The cost of cosmetology training varies by school. Most students at Delta Technical College receive some type of financial aid or assistance, including scholarships. To learn more, visit  and Tuition & Cost.

The School of Cosmetology at Delta Technical College’s Cosmetology Program offers students a 13 and a 16 month program Daytime and evening classes are available. Contact your local campus for more information on class schedules.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, projected growth in employment of barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists is 8% through 2032, which is faster than average for all occupations at 3%.

There are other career paths available to cosmetology school graduates, such as manicurist and pedicurist (projected to grow 9% from 2022 to 2032), or skincare specialist (projected to grow 9% from 2022 to 2032).

Hair stylists can find careers as color specialists, shampoo technicians, and even event and film set stylists. Barbers, hair stylists and other cosmetologists work mostly in barber shops or salons, but many spas, hotels and resorts also have these professions on staff. Some lease booth space from a salon owner. Others manage salons or open their own shop after several years of gaining experience.

Manicurists, pedicurists, and other nail technicians follow nail trends and ensure health protocols are met while providing appealing designs and treatments for their clients.

Estheticians are artists and scientists of the skin, possessing an understanding of exfoliation, skin cleaning, makeup application, and skincare assessment.

Licensing requirements vary by state. Generally, a high school education (or equivalent) and age minimum are required. Cosmetologists must receive training to prepare for the state licensing exam. The School of Cosmetology at DTC offers a Cosmetology Program to prepare students for the Mississippi cosmetology licensing exam.