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Cosmetology AAS

Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology

This degree is designed for students who want broad cosmetology preparation, hands-on salon experience, and additional coursework that supports communication, business knowledge, and long-term career growth.

Students practicing cosmetology techniques in a salon learning environment

Program overview

KCC’s Cosmetology AAS is built for students who want a broader professional pathway than a certificate alone. In addition to cosmetology coursework, the degree adds academic and business-related learning that can support stronger career development after graduation.

The AAS pathway is a strong fit for students who want technical training plus a foundation in communication, business, and professionalism.

What makes this pathway different

This degree goes beyond technical cosmetology training by adding coursework that supports management, business knowledge, information systems, and broader academic preparation.

Learning environment

Students build confidence through realistic training and student salon experience while developing competencies tied to professional readiness.

What you’ll study

The program combines beauty-industry skills with academic and workplace competencies that support long-term success.

Cosmetology skills

Build knowledge across sanitation, nails, esthetics, hair sculpture, design, and coloring.

Salon readiness

Practice real-world service expectations through competency-based evaluation and salon learning.

Business & communication

Strengthen the customer service, communication, and management skills that support advancement.

Academic foundation

Complete coursework that supports critical thinking, professional writing, math, and general education.

Stackable pathways

If you want a more focused entry point first, certificate options can support your path into the degree.

  • Start in a focused certificate pathway and continue into the AAS when ready.
  • Use related cosmetology pathways to build momentum toward broader career goals.
  • Explore barbering, hair design, and esthetics as connected options.

Program resources

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Curriculum Map A

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Curriculum Map B

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Program Catalog

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Career outlook

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United States $41,560 Median annual salary
Oregon $62,030 Median annual salary
Klamath Region $51,684 Median annual salary
Projected Growth 20% 2025–2035 projection
Esthetician Nail Tech Barber Shampooer Hairstylist Cosmetologist Salon Owner / Manager Beauty Writer / Content Creator

Frequently asked questions

What will I learn in this program?
Students build knowledge across cosmetology topics such as sanitation, business practices, nails, esthetics, hair sculpture, design, and coloring, along with broader academic coursework.
What if I have worked in a salon before?
This program can be paired with prior learning opportunities and related experience if those options are available through the current KCC pathway structure.
Why choose the AAS instead of only a certificate?
The degree adds communication, business, academic, and professional-development coursework that can support stronger long-term career mobility.
Can certificate pathways connect into this degree?
Yes — related certificate pathways can support progression into the AAS.

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