Cosmetology: Diploma

A beautiful career awaits.

Having a career that you love is a beautiful thing. Think TCL’s cosmetology program.

Program Description

Why not make a career out of something you love?

TCL’s full-time Cosmetology Diploma program is approved by the state of South Carolina. Students receive more than 1,500 hours of hands-on instruction in a real salon setting at the TCL Beaufort Campus.

Upon successful completion of the program and the South Carolina Cosmetology Licensure Examination, you’ll be able to go right to work as a cosmetologist, manicurist or skin care specialist. Whether you choose to work in a private salon or open your own business, you’ll have the skills and expertise you need to succeed.

Classes are held Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. for three consecutive semesters. Hair, skin and nail care theories are studied and put into practice. General education courses prepare graduates for the business aspect of cosmetology.

TCL Cosmetology Students provide instructor-supervised cosmetology services to the community. The Salon is located in building 10 at the Beaufort Campus. Take a look at the menu of services, prices and appointment information.

Certify Your Skills

TCL’s Cosmetology Diploma program qualifies students to take the State of South Carolina Cosmetology Licensure Examination.

Accreditation & Accolades

Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award Associate Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry.

See the Curriculum →

Quick Facts

Quick Fact 1

Hands-on: learn by actually practicing the skills you’ll need on the job.

Quick Fact 2

The full-time program takes just one year to complete.

Quick Fact 3

Graduates consistently perform well above average on the S.C. licensure exam.

What People Are Saying

“TCL's cosmetology program was perfect in guiding me to my dream business.”

Takiya Smith Graduate

FAQs & Additional Information

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What does this program cost?*

Tuition: 54 credits x $170 per credit = $9,180.

Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many TCL students attend for free.

*Based on Fall 2016 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Qualifications vary.

Career & Education Opportunities:

The S.C. annual mean wage for cosmetologists is $24,610, according to 2015 reports from U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay can grow substantially with time and experience. Additional career options include hair and make-up artists for entertainment productions.

Is this program for you?

The program is a great fit for those who:

• Are detail oriented.
• Can stand for long periods of time.
• Have great people skills.
• Love all-things beauty including hair, skin and make-up.

Other Resources

• Menu of Services
• Gainful Employment: Learn more about the Cosmetology Diploma.