Cosmetology

The Kirtland Salon, located on the Grayling campus, is open to the public Tuesday – Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 989-275-5000, Ext. 274 to schedule an appointment.

Salon Brochure Download

The Salon Spa is open to the public Tuesday – Thursday.

Salon Spa Skin Care Brochure Download

In our Cosmetology program, you’ll master hairstyling, cutting, coloring, skincare, makeup, and nail care. You’ll also learn sanitation, customer service, and salon management skills. This comprehensive training prepares you for the state licensing exam and ensures you’re ready to begin a successful career in the beauty industry.

Our Cosmetology program includes:

Cosmetology (AAS)
Cosmetology (CC)
Esthetician (CC)

Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatments, encompassing hairstyling, skincare, nail care, and makeup artistry. It is a profession dedicated to enhancing people’s appearances and boosting their confidence through creative and skilled techniques. Cosmetologists work closely with clients to understand their preferences and deliver personalized beauty services, often creating transformative experiences. The field blends artistic expression with technical expertise, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a hands-on, interactive, and visually engaging environment.

Choosing a career in cosmetology offers a variety of rewarding opportunities in a dynamic and ever-evolving industry. Professionals in this field can specialize in areas like hair coloring, esthetics, nail art, and bridal makeup. With consistent demand for beauty services, cosmetologists enjoy job security and flexibility. They also have the freedom to work in salons, spas, retail settings, or even start their own businesses. Additionally, the career allows for building relationships with a diverse range of clients, fostering meaningful connections and a strong sense of community.

Specialization in areas such as hair, nails, and makeup
Job security in a consistently high-demand industry
Flexibility in work settings and opportunities to run your own business
Networking opportunities to build meaningful client relationships
Creativity in helping others feel confident and beautiful

Cosmetology is especially appealing to those who value creativity, personal interaction, and the chance to make a difference in others’ lives. By helping clients look and feel their best, cosmetologists play a vital role in boosting self-esteem and well-being. The profession also provides continuous learning opportunities, with new techniques, trends, and products emerging regularly. For individuals passionate about beauty, fashion, and artistry, cosmetology offers a fulfilling, versatile, and impactful career path.

What’s distinctive about our Cosmetology program?

Students gain real-world experience in Kirtland’s high-end Cosmetology Salon
Everything in the salon is state-of-the-art — from cutting stations to training tools and techniques, skin care and mani/pedi stations.
You can earn your certificate in one quick year!
You will learn from State licensed instructors with decades of salon experience.
Everything from your certificate can go toward your degree.

Cosmetology Program Details

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Cosmetology, Associate in Applied Science	In District	Out of District
Tuition and Fees	18,346	25,246
Textbooks	820	820
Miscellaneous Expenses	1,134	1,134
Total	20,300	27,200

Cosmetology, Certificate of Completion	In District	Out of District
Tuition and Fees	13,484	18,284
Textbooks	240	240
Miscellaneous Expenses	1,076	1,076
Total	14,800	19,600

Esthetician, Certificate of Completion	In District	Out of District
Tuition and Fees	10,483	14,383
Textbooks	242	242
Miscellaneous Expenses	975	975
Total	11,700	15,600

Please Note
*All costs listed are estimated and are subject to change at any time. Students will receive final costs at the time of course registration each semester.

Cosmetology, CC, AAS

Graduates of this program must:

Complete 100% of hours required for this course.
Pass over all sections with a C- or higher.
Demonstrate the techniques involved in the practical and theory portion of the State Board exam.
Participate in all assignments associated with this course, demonstrating entry level cosmetology skills.
Successfully complete 1500 clock hours.
Pass final academic testing with an 80% or higher.
Be prepared to complete practical and theory test for licensure.

Cosmetology

State licensing is required for practicing Cosmetologists. The program is approved by the State of Michigan and therefore graduates are eligible to sit for the required theory and practical examination administered by PSI Services, LLC and after passing the examinations apply for the state license.

State licensing exams pass rate percentage: 100%
Program retention rate: 83%

Esthetician

State licensing is required for practicing Estheticians. The program is approved by the State of Michigan and therefore graduates are eligible to sit for the required theory and practical examination administered by PSI Services, LLC and after passing the examinations apply for the state license.

Careers related to Cosmetology

Explore Careers related to:

Esthetician

About Cosmetology at Kirtland

Kayli Burch

Cosmetology Graduate

I am a senior cosmetology student, and I believe this program is very beneficial. In this program and industry students learn about hair, skin and nails. This includes self care, expression, science, profile, personal image, and more. As a student I am able to creatively express myself and learn the proper maintenance of my and my client’s, hair, skin, and nails.

This industry is very unique and allows/gives freedom to students after graduation. This industry is very important because the demand for cosmetologists is always high. Especially in today’s society, many people want to become more educated in self-care. This is why the demand is strong and job opportunities are always available.

Another great aspect is the school itself. Kirtland community college is a great location. The campus is professional, affordable, and everyone is friendly. As the school is growing, more opportunities become available, at Kirtland I believe people of all ages can pursue their passions and further their education easily.

Shannon Weaver

Cosmetology Program Director/Instructor

For as much experience as I have in cosmetology, I feel that this is by far the best time to be a part of this industry. There is so much more to being a cosmetologist or esthetician than ever before. I am so excited to be teaching the newest students to not only be licensed but to be part of a community, a business owner, an educator, manager, and on and on. This is not just a job but a career.

From start to finish, Kirtland’s cosmetology program has a high standard when it comes to education, salon standards and techniques, work ethic, and state board criteria. This high standard starts with the instructors. Our team of instructors are some of the best in the industry, constantly learning through advanced education just to make sure our students are some of the best. It also shows throughout the salon and classroom, as soon as a student walks through our salon doors they get a feeling of, “Yes this is where I will learn.”