What is Cosmetology? Cosmetology is the art and science of beauty care. Cosmetology involves the study of skin, manicuring, hair care, hair shaping, chemical designing and relaxing, permanant waving, hair coloring, facials, and makeup.   What can a Professional Cosmetologist expect to earn per year? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the medial annual salary for Cosmetologists was at $32,000 in 1998 and the oppurtunities are endless. Experienced stylists can earn up to $50,000 per year and more. Employment opportunities for Cosmetologists are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005 (1995 Job Dem and Survey) It is one of the fastest growing and desirable jobs, according to "Money" Magazine.   What type of people become Cosmetologists? Creative, energetic, and intelligent women and men that enjoy working with people. Careers in the beauty industry offer high income potention, flexibility, and independence. Individual that wat to have a career that they can use in small communities or cities anywhere in the United States, and overseas.   Isn't Cosmetology just for those that are not smart enough to go to College? Not by any means. The women and men that come into the field of cosmetology are intelligent, hard working people that have decided that they want a career that they enjoy and can provide a good living for themselves and their families. Many go on to salon ownership, Cosmetology instruction, cosmetology school ownership, platform artist, cosmetology industry sales rep., color specialists, and make-up artists in the movie industry.   What will I be taught during my schooling? Chemistry, anatomy, psychology, customer services, salon management, and all services relating to Cosmetology. Sanitizing and sterilizing, shampooing, hair-cutting, hair coloring, manikins, pedicures, chemical relaxers, permanent waving, facials, manicuring and artificial nail (Nail Technology), including nail art. All instructions are taught by the professional, caring, and helpfull instructors.   How long will my schooling take? Your cosmetology training, as required by Idaho State Law, will consist of 2,000 hours of instruction. With continous attendance five days per week, eight hours per day, it will take approximately 50 weeks to complete your schooling. The Nail Technology course is 400 hours long. The State of Idaho only requires you to complete 300, but the additional 100 hours are to help you develop your training and practice your trade, before you test with the state.