Cosmetology courses are primarily concerned with improving people's physical appearance through skincare and treatments. Although cosmetology and beautician courses are similar, they are primarily professional courses that prepare students for the beauty industry. Students can complete their Certificate, Diploma, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cosmetology. The average duration of Cosmetology courses ranges from two months to three years depending on the academic level of the course.
The Cosmetology courses syllabus and subjects vary according to the institutions but the primary subjects include studies based on anatomy and physiology, skin analysis, nail structure, and skin disorders. The minimum eligibility criteria to apply for a Cosmetology course is to complete higher secondary education with at least 50% marks in aggregate. Also, Cosmetology course admissions are merit and entrance exam-based. Some popular colleges that offer this course are Uttarakhand Open University, DAV College, Pearl Academy, Indian Institute of Aesthetic Medicine, etc. The average course fee for Cosmetology courses in India may vary from INR 15,000 to 1,00,000. After completion of the course, graduates opt for Cosmetology course jobs such as makeup artists, hair stylists, fashion show stylists, nail technicians, beauty therapists, salon sales consultants, cosmetologists, beauty magazine writers, beauty care distributors, etc. with an average starting salary of INR 3-8 LPA. Continue reading to learn more about Cosmetology courses, eligibility criteria, top colleges, specialisations offered, top recruiters, and more.
The following table provides some important highlights about Cosmetology courses:
Particular | Detail |
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Name | Cosmetology Courses |
Courses Offered |
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Duration |
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Eligibility Criteria |
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Average Course Fees |
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Top Job Prospects | Hair Stylist, hairdresser, nail artist, makeup artist, etc. |
Average Salary |
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You will learn several skills that the youth of today need in this cosmetology course. It now has one of the highest levels of employability. As mentioned in the infographic below and explained in the subsequent section, here are a few reasons to choose cosmetology courses.
Flexibility and Creativity: If you are looking for a job that blends your creative side with lucrative chances, cosmetology courses may be a fascinating option. It all comes down to stretching the creative envelope to develop a fresh look for beauty.
Productive Career Options: After completing the programme, a cosmetologist might choose to start practising as a cosmetologist upon graduation or specialise in a more advanced field of study. They are also qualified to work in salons, resort spas, day spas, and aesthetic beauty centres. Additionally, within cosmetology, one can choose other areas of specialisation to become a recognised specialist while staying employed.
Industry Growth: Reports indicate that the beauty and wellness sector in India is expanding at a compound annual growth rate of over 18%. It is a safe career decision because the industry is predicted to grow gradually in the next few years.
Practical Skills: Enrolling in cosmetology courses will provide you with real-world expertise working in the field. Your skill set will be resilient to any economic slump as a result of practical experience and classroom instruction.
Glamorous Exposure: Cosmetology courses are the right career option for you if you feel called to serve the elite of the glamorous sector with beauty and upkeep services. If you have the right skill set, you can work consistently with well-known customers and earn money.
Several universities in India provide online cosmetology courses that allow students to complete the course curriculum whenever and wherever they choose. In India, these online courses are also available alongside clinical and medical cosmetology and aesthetic medicine.
While there are many distinct types of online courses available for cosmetology, prospective students should finish their undergraduate and graduate degrees — if they so choose — by attending traditional, on-campus classrooms. This is because they could utilise the skills and expertise they have gained on live patients. Short-term courses, like online diploma or certificate cosmetology courses, are still allowed, though, since they prioritise theoretical knowledge over hands-on instruction, which gives graduates a foundational understanding of the subject. Online cosmetology courses are offered by organisations like IQRAMED at many academic levels, including fellowships, certificates, diplomas, and postgraduate diplomas for doctors with BDS, BHMS, MBBS, and other degrees.
The medical speciality of dermatology courses addresses issues related to the skin, scalp, hair, and nails. One who specialises in skin care is called a dermatologist. They provide care for people of various ages, including the elderly and newborns. Hairstyle, cosmetics application, skincare, nail care, and salon management are just a few of the areas covered in the cosmetology courses. Therefore, there are multiple fields that a cosmetologist might focus on, including hair removal, tattoos and nail art, skincare, aromatherapy, hair styling, mehndi, makeup, and even herbal beauty care. The following table highlights some major differences between dermatology and cosmetology courses:
Differentiating Parameter | Dermatology | Cosmetology |
---|---|---|
Course Level | Certificate, Diploma, UG, PG, and PhD | Certificate, Diploma, UG, and PG |
Course Duration | 3 months to 3 years | 2-3 years |
Course Fee | INR 900 to 80,00,000 | INR 1,00,000 to 5,00,000 |
Best Colleges | JIPMER Puducherry, Banaras Hindu University, AIIMS Jodhpur, ILBS Delhi, etc. | Pearl Academy, YWCA Women’s Training Institute, Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy, DAV College Chandigarh, and more. |
Top Job Profiles | Dermatology Consultant, Medical Representative, Dermatology Professor, Skin Specialist, and so on. | Brand Manager, Manicurist, Beauty Consultant, Spa Therapist, and more. |
Average Starting Salary | INR 2-19 LPA | INR 2-12 LPA |
Top Recruiters | Government and Private Hospitals, Community and Health Centres, Clinics and Dispensaries, Nursing Homes, etc. | Biotique, Lakme, Habib’s, Clinique, Sugar, etc. |
Cosmetology courses can be done on three levels — Certificate, Diploma, and Degree courses (bachelor’s and master's degree) in both online and offline modes of schooling. Let us understand this one by one in the subsequent sections.
The duration of these courses is one to six months and therefore these are also known as short-term courses. Students who wish to get employed right after their 12th can apply for certificate courses in cosmetology. These courses can be done either online or offline.The table below lists some of the most popular offline Cosmetology course certificates:
Course Name | Institute Name | Average Course Fee (in INR) |
---|---|---|
Certificate in cosmetology |
| 10,000 to 85,000 |
Certificate course in basic beauty | Hazel International Institute of Beauty and Wellness | 25,000 to 50,000 |
Certificate course in basic hair designing | Hazel International Institute of Beauty and Wellness | 45,000 to 60,000 |
Certificate course in professional makeup | Hazel International Institute of Beauty and Wellness | 10,000 to 25,000 |
Certificate course in artistry makeup | ISAS, JD Institute of Fashion Technology | 10,000 to 30,000 |
The duration of these courses is six months to two years. Candidates who wish to work in retail pharmacies and other pharmaceutical companies can apply for a diploma in cosmetology courses.
Course name | College/university | Average Course Fee (in INR) |
---|---|---|
Advanced Diploma in Cosmetology |
| 45,000 to 60,000 |
Diploma in Beauty Care | Hazel International Institute of Beauty and Wellness | 30,000 to 75,000 |
Diploma in Hair Designing | Hazel International Institute of Beauty and Wellness | 15,000 to 40,000 |
Diploma in Beauty and Sspa Management |
| 45,000 to 60,000 |
PG Diploma in Medical Cosmetology | Indian Institute of Aesthetic Medicine | 30,000 to 80,500 |
PG Diploma in Clinical Cosmetology | Indian Institute of Aesthetic Medicine | 50,000 to 1,00,000 |
The duration of these courses is two to three years. Students who want to pursue a full-time career in cosmetology after graduation must apply for degree courses in cosmetology. Some best undergraduate courses are:
Course Name | College Name | Average Course Fee (in INR) |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science in cosmetology |
| 1,50,000 to 2,50,000 |
Bachelor of Science in Beauty Cosmetology |
| 5,00,000 to 8,50,000 |
Bachelor of Cosmetic Technology |
| 3,00,000 to 10,00,000 |
The duration of these courses is two years. Students who want to pursue an academic career in cosmetology after graduation and want to carry out research in pharmaceutical sciences must apply for master's courses in cosmetology. Some of the best postgraduate courses are:
Course Name | College Name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Master of cosmetic technology |
| 2 years |
MTech in cosmetic technology |
| 2 years |
The prerequisites for Cosmetology courses can change based on the specific type of academic course, programme level, and particular college providing the course. Nonetheless, the table below lists a few essential eligibility criteria for cosmetology courses that prospective applicants must fulfil based on their type of programme:
Course Type | Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|
Certificate Courses | After completing their Class 10 at an accredited board or college, candidates are eligible to enrol for a cosmetology certificate programme. Both online and offline applications are accepted for certification cosmetology courses. |
Diploma Courses | Once they pass the higher secondary test, candidates can opt to pursue a diploma programme in cosmetology. Certain diploma programmes allow applicants to apply even after completing secondary education. Several reputable universities sometimes hold entrance exams to get admission. |
PG Diploma Courses | Students who have obtained their bachelor's degree in the same or a related discipline may apply for a postgraduate diploma in cosmetology courses. In certain cases, to qualify for a degree, applicants must provide proof of an internship or at least six months of employment history. |
UG Courses | Applicants who have completed higher secondary education with at least 45% to 50% aggregate marks may apply for a UG degree in cosmetology. As of the respective application year, applicants must be at least 17 years old to be considered for a Bachelor of Cosmetology course. They might also have to pass an entrance exam administered by their desired institution to be admitted. |
PG Courses | To pursue a postgraduate degree in cosmetology, candidates must first earn a professional diploma in the relevant discipline or a bachelor's degree. In addition, they must provide proof of at least six months of work experience. |
There are no specific national-level entrance exams specifically for Cosmetology courses. The institutes may conduct examinations on their own for admission to Cosmetology. Some of the exams for getting admission to Cosmetology are:
Given Cosmetology is a vast field, students can choose from numerous specialisations at different academic levels based on their interests or career objectives. The following is a list of popular Cosmetology course specialisations offered by various colleges and universities in India:
Admission to cosmetology courses is done purely on a merit basis. However, some institutes may administer their own entrance exam to sieve potential applicants. There is no fixed academic qualification that is required. Various institutes have different criteria for admission. Here are some important guidelines regarding the Cosmetology course admission procedure:
The following table highlights the admission process for Cosmetology courses per various academic levels.
Course Level | Admission Details |
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Diploma and PG Diploma |
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Bachelor's Degree Courses |
|
Master's Degree Courses |
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The average cosmetology course fees may vary according to the type of course chosen. Diploma and certificate courses are comparatively less expensive than degree courses, among which some are free to take. The following table will give you an idea of the average fees for different Cosmetology courses.
Course Level | Average Fee (in INR) |
---|---|
Certificate | 500 to 20,000 |
Diploma and PG Diploma | 10,000 to 1,50,000 |
Bachelor’s degree | 15,000 to 2,00,000 |
Master’s degree | 20,000 to 2,00,000 |
The Cosmetology syllabus and subjects are designed to introduce students to all of the important aspects of skin, beauty, hair, etc. that they should be aware of if they want to pursue a career in the field. Also, the syllabus may vary from institute to institute depending upon the type of course chosen. Listed below are some common cosmetology subjects:
It is important to look into any school's reputation, instructors, facilities, and industry links before enrolling in a cosmetology course. The accreditation and recognition of pertinent authorities should also be verified by students. Numerous private universities and institutes in India offer cosmetology courses. The best ones, recognised for their excellent instruction and training, are included in the following table.
College Name | Total Course Fee (in INR) |
---|---|
Asian Academy of Film and Television | 1,30,000 |
College of Ayurved, Bharati Vidyapeeth | 4,50,000 |
DAV College, Chandigarh | 23,510 |
Indian Institute of Aesthetic Medicine | 55,000 to 1,20,000 |
Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy | 25,000 to 79,000 |
Kapil’s Academy of Hair and Beauty | 25,000 to 35,000 |
New Delhi YMCA, Institute for Fashion Technology and Design | 20,000 to 85,000 |
Pearl Academy | 3,00,000 |
Vinayak Ganesh Vaze College of Arts, Science and Commerce | 54,000 |
Source: The fee mentioned above is sourced from the official website of the respective university and is subject to change from one year to the next.
Compared to private institutes, the number of government colleges or institutions in India that offer courses specialised in cosmetology is relatively modest. Cosmetology courses are, nevertheless, available at a few government-affiliated schools as mentioned in the table below:
College Name | Total Course Fee (in INR) |
---|---|
Aligarh Muslim University | 800 |
Jiwaji University, Gwalior | 15,000 |
Meerabai Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University - Maharani Bagh Campus | 31,050 |
National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi | 64,900 |
Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University | 2,000 to 15,000 |
Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University | 14,340 |
Uttarakhand Open University | 6,100 |
YWCA Vocational Training Institute | 27,000 to 48,000 |
YWCA Women’s Training Institute | 46,500 |
Source: The fee mentioned above is sourced from the official website of the respective university and is subject to change from one year to the next.
In India and other countries, the profession of cosmetology has a broad scope. Because of the advancement in lifestyle, cosmetology is a promising career for young people. The basic requirement for practising medical cosmetology is a medical degree from a reputable medical college. Dermatologists with a diploma or master's degree may also practice medical cosmetology. Following completion of an MBBS degree, aspirants may pursue a training/certification programme to become specialists or trainers. With a General Cosmetology degree, you can work in a salon or a spa. Aspirants can also work in various specialised areas of cosmetology, such as nail technicians (manicures, pedicures, nail art, and so on). Those with a skin treatment license or certificate can work as assistants in a skin clinic.
Candidates who take cosmetology courses have a variety of job opportunities since they learn about chemistry and bacteriology for addressing disorders connected to skin, hair, and other beauty-related issues. Following cosmetology schooling, the following are some job profiles that students may consider opting for to advance their careers:
Job Profile | Description |
---|---|
Spa Therapist | A practitioner with training in providing a variety of health and relaxation treatments at spas and wellness centres is known as a spa therapist. |
Nail Artist | A nail artist sometimes referred to as a manicurist or nail technician, is a trained specialist in the maintenance and aesthetics of nails. |
Manicurist | A manicurist is a specialist in nail art and aesthetics, focusing on manicures and pedicures. |
Hair Stylist | A practitioner with training in the art and science of hair care, styling, and grooming is referred to as a hairstylist or hairdresser. |
Beauty Consultant | A trained individual who advises and helps clients with skincare, cosmetics, hair care, and general personal grooming is known as a beauty consultant. |
The career options available after cosmetology courses are wide and rewarding. If you have the correct skill set and interest in this field, cosmetology jobs can prove to be a good career option for you. The average starting Cosmetology salary can range between INR 3-5 LPA and can increase with years of experience. The following table outlines salary after cosmetology courses:
Job option | Average Salary (in INR) |
---|---|
Hairstylist | 2-3 LPA |
Fashion show stylist | 4-5 LPA |
Nail technician | 2-3 LPA |
Makeup artist | 3-4 LPA |
Salon sales consultant | 0.5-1 LPA |
Beauty Therapist | 2-3 LPA |
Beauty magazine writer | 8-9 LPA |
Cosmetology instructor | 3-4 LPA |
There are many different job options in the cosmetology industry, and specialists in these professions can work in a variety of sectors. Top employers in cosmetology and beauty culture include wellness centres, cosmetic companies, wellness centres, and beauty academies. The top employers for graduates of cosmetology courses are listed in the table below:
The qualification required for master Cosmetology courses is that applicants must have earned an advanced certificate in cosmetology from a reputable beauty and makeup school.
The best colleges in India for Certificate in Cosmetology and Beauty Culture courses are Pearl Academy (Delhi/ Noida/ Mumbai), Orane International, National Institute of Ayurveda, and more.
The best colleges in India for a Diploma in Cosmetology and Beauty Culture course are ISAS International Beauty School, JD Institute of Fashion Technology Bangalore/ Mumbai/ New Delhi, Lakme Academy, Orane International Delhi, Tulip International, VLCC Institute of Beauty and Nutrition, VLCC Institute of Beauty and Nutrition, and more.
The following qualifications are required for short-term Cosmetology courses:
The top recruiters that hire Cosmetology course graduates are Biotique, Clinique, GlaxoSmithKline, Habib’s, Herbals, L’Oreal, Lakme, Lotus, Natures, Shahnaz Husain, Sugar, Unilever, VLCC, and more.
Some subjects that are taught in Cosmetology courses are Advanced Haircutting, Advanced Nail Techniques, Hair Coloring, Hair Treatments, Haircare Basics, Introduction to Cosmetology, Nail Artistry, Nail Care Basics, Salon Management, Skincare Basics, Specialised Services, and more.
The following qualifications are required for Diploma in Cosmetology courses:
The list of the best government colleges for Cosmetology courses in India includes Aligarh Muslim University, Jiwaji University (Gwalior), Meerabai Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University (Maharani Bagh Campus), National Institute of Fashion Technology Delhi, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Uttarakhand Open University, YWCA Vocational Training Institute, YWCA Women’s Training Institute, and more.
The list of the best private colleges for Cosmetology courses in India includes Asian Academy of Film and Television, College of Ayurved (Bharati Vidyapeeth), DAV College (Chandigarh), Indian Institute of Aesthetic Medicine, Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy, Kapil’s Academy of Hair and Beauty, Institute for Fashion Technology and Design (New Delhi YMCA), Pearl Academy, Vinayak Ganesh Vaze College of Arts/ Science/ Commerce, and more.
The Diploma in Cosmetology (DIC) courses include every aspect of the preparation needed for beauty professionals to perform hair, skin, and makeup procedures safely, competently, and professionally. The curriculum promotes knowledge and comprehension in both the theoretical and applied areas.
The fees for Cosmetology courses in India are from INR 1-5 LPA, depending on the course type, level, and the type of institute one is interested in enrolling. For reference, the fees at government colleges range from INR 800 to 64,900. The fees at private colleges range from INR 20,000 to 4,50,000.
Students can study Cosmetology courses in India at various reputed government and private colleges. Aligarh Muslim University, Asian Academy of Film and Television, DAV College (Chandigarh), Kapil’s Academy of Hair and Beauty, National Institute of Fashion Technology (Delhi), YWCA Women’s Training Institute, and mode.
Yes, cosmetology courses have scope and this career is considered a good option keeping in mind the need for beauty and wellness-related product requirements. The industry offers attractive compensation packages. Prospective students can find employment in hotels, beauty parlours, salons, spas, and resorts after completing the cosmetology programme.
There is no specific stream that is best for cosmetology courses, students from any academic background can pursue this course depending on their interests. The course is offered as a diploma or certificate programme at various private institutes throughout India. The most typical eligibility requirements are a 10th and 12th-grade diploma; you can be in the commerce, science, or art streams.
Yes, students can become a cosmetologist without an MBBS degree. While a bachelor's degree in cosmetology is not necessary, those who want to pursue more medically focused areas of skincare, like dermatology or cosmetic surgery, will need to complete advanced medical coursework and training. These people would usually pursue a medical degree with a dermatology or plastic surgery speciality.
The admission process for Cosmetology courses in India involves filling up application forms and appearing for interviews or entrance exams to check the skills and aptitude of candidates. Students are also admitted based on their merits and documents are verified for the same.
There are several types of Cosmetology courses, from certificate to diploma and advanced diploma courses. Hairstyling, makeup artistry, skincare, nail technology, etc are taught in these courses that help them launch into successful careers as beauty professionals.
The eligibility criteria for Cosmetology courses vary depending on the institute and the course. Generally, candidates who have completed their 12th from a recognised board are eligible to apply for Cosmetology courses. There may be entrance exam requirements, age requirements or any other additional criteria.
No, students may not need to appear for entrance exams for Cosmetology courses. However, some institutes or beauty and wellness associations organise their entrance exams or take interviews before admitting students. Students must check with the specific institutes and understand their admission requirements.
Yes, it is possible to pursue Cosmetology courses after 12th grade. There are diploma and certificate courses in Cosmetology that students can pursue to start their careers early. However, the eligibility criteria and admission processes may differ.
The career options after Cosmetology courses are Salon Stylist, Hairdresser, Makeup Artist, Skin Care Specialist, Esthetician, Nail Technician, Beauty Consultant, Spa Therapist, Salon Manager or Freelance Professional. One can build a business of their own by opening their beauty clinics or studios.
The average salary after Cosmetology courses can be between INR 2-12 LPA. The income depends on experience, expertise, location and the type of establishment. With experience and marketing, a strong client base can be built which in turn increases earnings.
The duration of cosmetology courses depends on the institute, level of programme and the specific course type. The diploma or certification in Cosmetology course is between 6 to 12 months. Some institutes may train for a longer duration for advanced skills.
Yes, Cosmetology courses are a good career option for those interested in beauty and wellness. They have opportunities to be creative and develop skills related to the beauty industry which is vast and ever-evolving. The success in the cosmetology industry is dependent on talent, learning, networking and building a client base.
The role of a cosmetologist is to provide beauty and wellness services to clients, a professionals in the beauty industry. Their role is related to haircare, skincare, makeup application, nail care, hair removal, client consultation, knowledge of cosmetic products and customer service.