← All programs Licensed program · Windsor, CO

Cosmetology Program

Our flagship program. Master hair, color, skin, and nails, and graduate ready for any chair in the industry — the broadest license you can earn.

1,500Hours
50Credits
In-personHands-on training
Program overview

What this program is about

The Cosmetology program at ELEVATE ACADEMY aims to provide students with essential skills, safety awareness, and a positive work ethic necessary for entry-level positions in cosmetology and related fields. Comprising 50 credit hours, the program integrates theoretical and practical skill development to meet the licensure requirements set by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).

Students must successfully complete both theoretical and practical components for each exercise before participating in laboratory activities. Classes are taught by ELEVATE ACADEMY instructors or industry-specialized contractors, ensuring a rich learning environment.

The program is designed to seamlessly blend theory with hands-on practice, providing a comprehensive educational experience. All examinations are administered in English by the Office of Barber and Cosmetologist Licensing or designated testing agencies, and students are required to respond in English. The entire learning experience, including classroom instruction and clinic floor education, is conducted exclusively in English. Graduates receive a certification, equipping them for success in their cosmetology careers.

What you'll learn

  • Hair color design & the latest trends
  • Precision haircutting & texture
  • Daily and special-occasion styling
  • Interview technique & résumé development
ELEVATE ACADEMY’s mission is to furnish students with comprehensive skills, information, and training through reliable theoretical and practical instruction. The goal is to enable successful program completion, prepare students for the State Board exam, and instill professional attitudes and habits vital for initial employment and future career advancement. Through a thorough and reliable educational approach, ELEVATE ACADEMY aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen field and foster a foundation for ongoing professional growth.
Curriculum

Inside the cosmetology curriculum

Competency-based and hours-tracked toward Colorado (DORA) licensure. Here's how the 1,500 hours break down.

SHAMPOOING, RINSING & CONDITIONING

50 Hours

Shampoo chemistry, Hair & Scalp Analysis, Scalp Disorders & Diseases, Scalp Manipulations, Shampooing Procedures & Techniques, Rinsing, Conditioning & Finishing, Treatments of the Scalp & Hair.

HAIRCOLORING

200 Hours

Color Theory, Color Applications & Techniques, Chemistry of Hair color, Hair Lightening (Bleaching), Special Effects Techniques, Corrective Color Theory & Techniques.

HAIRCUTTING

200 Hours

Scalp Analysis & Hair Growth, Theory of Haircutting, Tools & Implements, Sectioning & Control, Angles & Elevation, Cutting Techniques & Applications.

HAIRSTYLING

175 Hours

Principles of Hair Design, Wet Hairstyling, Roller Sets, Pin curls & Finger waving, Thermal Hairstyling, Blow Dry Styling, Iron Curling, Waving, Artistry of Artificial Hair, Long Hair Techniques, Hair Pressing.

CHEMICAL TEXTURE SERVICES

100 Hours

Chemistry of Permanent Waving, Hair Structure & Analysis, Sectioning, Blocking & Wrapping, Permanent Waving Techniques, Chemistry of Chemical Relaxing, Relaxer Application Techniques, Soft Curl Permanent Waving.

MANICURING & PEDICURING

175 Hours

Nail Structure, Growth & Anatomy, Diseases & Disorders of the Nail, Theory Of Massage, Massage Manipulations, Manicure Procedures & Techniques, Pedicure Procedures & Techniques.

APPLICATION OF ARTIFICIAL NAILS

125 Hours

Chemistry & Safety for Artificial Nail Enhancements, Sculptured Nail Applications, Nail Tip Application & Overlays, Nail Wrap Application & Techniques.

FACIALS & SKIN CARE

175 Hours

Theory of Massage, Benefits, & Techniques, Histology of Skin, Diseases & Disorders of the Skin, Products, Ingredients, Use & Application, Consultation, Analysis & Preparation, Facial & Skin Care Techniques, Skin Care Treatments, Light Therapy, Masks & Packs Therapy & Treatments.

FACIAL MAKEUP

25 Hours

Color Theory & Analysis, Cosmetic Product Ingredients & Chemistry, Cosmetic/Makeup Applications & Techniques, Artificial Lash Application, Lash & Brow Tinting.

HAIR REMOVAL

75 Hours

Physical & Chemical Depilatories Theory, Chemistry & Product Knowledge, Client Consultation, Analysis & Safety, Physical Depilatory Procedures & Techniques, Chemical Depilatory Procedures & Techniques.

LAW, RULES & REGULATIONS

25 Hours

Local, State & Federal Laws and Statutes, School Rules, Regulations & Policies.

MANAGEMENT, ETHICS, INTERPERSONAL SKILLS & SALESMANSHIP

25 Hours

Interpersonal Skills, Communication & Human Relations, Professionalism, Management & Ethics, Salesmanship Skills & Traits.

DISINFECTION, SANITATION, & SAFE WORK PRACTICES

150 Hours

Bacteriology & Infection Control, Sanitation Practices in the Workplace, Patron Protection, Draping, Material Safety Data Sheets, OSHA in the workplace, Standards & Regulations, Public Sanitation Methods, Chemical Agents, Types, Classifications, Safe Use & Handling.

Total 50 CREDITS/1500 HOURS
After you graduate

Where a cosmetology license can take you

Your license is portable and in demand. Graduates go on to roles like these — in established salons and spas, or building a book of their own.

  • Salon stylist
  • Colorist
  • Salon owner
  • Platform artist & educator
Keep exploring

Other programs

Hair Stylist Program

1,200 hours 40 credits

A hair-focused path into cutting, color, and styling for the stylist who knows their craft is hair — and wants to get behind the chair faster.

  • Hair color design & correction
  • Precision haircutting
  • Texture & chemical services
  • Daily and special-occasion styling
Explore program

Esthetician Program

600 hours 20 credits

Specialize in the fast-growing world of skincare — facials, waxing, makeup, and lashes — and earn your license in as few as 600 hours.

  • Facials & skin treatments
  • Extractions
  • Waxing & hair removal
  • Makeup & eyelash application
Explore program

Nail Technician Program

600 hours 20 credits

A focused, creative license you can finish in 600 hours — manicures, pedicures, enhancements, and nail art, ready for the salon or your own table.

  • Manicures & pedicures
  • Acrylic & gel enhancements
  • Nail art & design
  • Nail health & sanitation
Explore program
Start your career

Ready to explore Cosmetology?

Request info or schedule a tour and we'll answer everything about this program — schedule, tuition, and what your day looks like.