South Carolina has a surprisingly urban and diverse population. Its cosmetology schools are no different. So if you are looking for a rewarding career that keeps you learning new skills and meeting new people, then a career in beauty might be just what you’re looking for. And it all starts with the right program.
How Long Are Cosmetology Schools in South Carolina, And What Will You Learn?
To become a cosmetologist or hair stylist in South Carolina, you must meet the following requirements. First, you need to be at least 16 years old, and second, you must have at least a 10th-grade education. And you’ll need a program that consists of at least 1500 hours of study. These can be at college level or through a registered beauty school. If you haven’t finished grade school yet, check to see if you can do some beauty classes while still in high school.
You’ll study various subjects, some related to business, some to anatomy and science, and others to the beauty industry. You can include classes on dermatology, hairstyling, sterilization and sanitation, and business management classes. You’re likely to find some parts of the program harder than others, but it is important to complete the full curriculum.
Use our app to find a school near you:
Getting Your South Carolina Cosmetology License
After you’ve got your education and put in your 1500 hours or more training, both practically and theoretically, you need to take your practical and theory exams.
You’ll need to apply online and attach your proof of education and cosmetology training and a copy of your photo ID.
The theory exam is a written exam, and you need at least 75% to pass. The practical is a hands-on exam to test your experience with various makeup and hair styling techniques.
You will be required to bring your own kit and mannequin to the test, along with your ID. Once you’ve passed both exams, the testing facility will notify the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology, and the Board will automatically issue you a license.
This process takes about a month, and you cannot apply for cosmetology jobs before receiving your license.
Moving to SC From Out-Of-State?
If you are already a licensed cosmetologist in another state, you may be eligible for an endorsement license in South Carolina.
You must have previously taken the National Interstate Council test and submit the application for a license by endorsement. Your grades and proof that you have taken the exam must also be submitted. You’ll need to provide proof that you currently have an active license in good standing from your home state.
Renew Your SC Cosmetology License
Once you’ve earned your license, it’s important to keep it in good standing and keep it active.
Your cosmetology license will need to be renewed every two years, and in that period, you must earn 12 hours, or 12 credits of continuing education per year.
Check out the South Carolina Board’s website for more information on continuing education requirements and approved providers.
Work Opportunities For South Carolina Beauticians
South Carolina is experiencing a boom in its beauty industry, with popular salons and spas mentioned in major cross-country magazines.
With the Charleston International Film Festival drawing bigger crowds every yea and tourists looking for high-end spas in the mountains, there are plenty of places to find great jobs in the beauty industry and start your career with a good salary. Check out dew.sc.gov for a glimpse into your bright new future.
Also, did you know you can get an early start in your beauty training… at high school?
Examples of Some Cosmetology Schools in South Carolina with Costs
| Name | Address | Cost | Other Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strand College of Hair Design | 423 79th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, 29572 | Application Fee $ 40.00 Enrollment Fee $ 60.00 Tuition $ 15000.00 Kit and Supplies 1400.00 Taxes on Kit 126.00 Milady Texts ISBN-13:97812857 $ 138.00 ISBN-13:9781285769455 $ 68.00 ISBN-13:9781285769479 $ 68.00 Total $ 16.900.00 | Esthetics |
| Charleston Cosmetology Institute | 8484 Dorchester Road, Charleston, 29420 | Tuition: $17,500 | Esthetics, Nail Technology, Continuing Education |
| LeGrand Institute of Cosmetology | 2418 Broad Street, Camden, 29020 | Tuition: $14,000 Kit Cost: $1,000 | None |
| Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology | 3528-A Earl E Morris Jr. Highway, Greenville, 29611 | Application Fee: $100 Tuition: $16,650 Kit(s) + Tax: $2,087 Books: $500 Lab Fees: $650 Total: $19,987 | Esthetics |
| Palmetto Beauty School | 2601 East Main Street #8, Spartanburg, 29307 | Tuition and fees: $18,250 Books and supplies: $1,550 | None |
| Remington College | 607 Bush River Road, Columbia, 29210 | $20,520 | Many |
Other South Carolina schools for nail technicians, estheticians, and barbers.
hairchamps.info
aikenschoolofcosmetology.com
avedainstitutessouth.edu
carolinacollege.com
charlestoncosmetology.com
charzannebeautycollege.com
columbiaacademyofcosmetology.com
jhisoc.com
kennethshuler.com
legrandinstitute.com – Camden
miller-motte.edu
palmettocosmo.com
strandcollege.com
styletrendsacademy.com
upstatecosmetology.com
vc.edu
Did we miss any cosmetology institutes in South Carolina? Please let us know.