Get the Skills to Be a Professional Cosmetologist

15 Month* Hands-On Cosmetologist Training Program in Colorado

An IntelliTec College Cosmetology student practices her hair styling skills
Got a talent for making yourself and others look their best? Turn that gift into a career in the beauty industry as a skilled Cosmetologist

 

At IntelliTec College, our cosmetologist program helps prepare you for a long-term career in the beauty industry by turning your passion into a profession. 

Through our hands-on training, you will learn to create unique hairstyles, master skin and nail techniques, and offer excellent guest care. Our Summit Salon Academy partnered cosmetologist program allows our students to train alongside seasoned professionals while using Pivot Point methodology to learn cutting techniques and styling methods. 

IntelliTec’s cosmetologist training program will secure your future in beauty services through 1695 clocked hours of training.

Check out the IntelliTec College Cosmetology Salons to see where you could soon be practicing your new skills.

How will IntelliTec College prepare me for my Cosmetologist Career?

Develop hands-on skills and learn how to:

  • Shampoo, rinse and condition hair and learn how to select and apply appropriate products
  • Provide four basic cuts and develop more complex techniques
  • Apply permanent waving and hair relaxing chemicals
  • Complete hair coloring procedures & coloring for special effect
  • Learn to select and apply skin care products for facials
  • Perform spa manicures and pedicures, including the incorporation of aroma-therapy and paraffin wax treatments
  • Apply cosmetology laws, rules, and state regulations to a business plan
  • Incorporate business ethics, management, interpersonal skills and sales

Next Start Dates

Cosmetologist

*Program length when completed as designed. 

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What Does a Cosmetologist Do?

Cosmetologists are the foundation of the beauty industry. They style and color all types of hair, provide manicures and pedicures, apply makeup, as well as skin care services. All of these skills are coupled with professional guest services.

When Do Cosmetologists Usually Work?

Cosmetologists often work full-time, but part-time positions are quite common. The ones who choose to run their own salon could have long hours. Work schedules often include evenings and weekends, as those are the times when beauty salons are busiest. Self-employed Cosmetologists usually determine their own schedules.

**According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Opportunities for Cosmetologists

  • Salon Stylist
  • Full-Service Cosmetologist
  • Hair Color Specialist
  • Hair Stylist
  • Makeup Consultant and Technician
  • Theater/Stage Makeup Artist
  • Nail Technician
  • Manicurist/Pedicurist
  • Skin Care Specialist
  • Beauty Salon Owner/Manager
  • Day Spa Personal Care Advisor
  • Fashion or Image Consultant
  • Retail Sales/Manufacturer Representative
  • State Inspector/Proctor for State Licensing Exam
  • and more!

Salary Potential for Cosmetologists

IntelliTec College provides career-training programs for entry-level positions. Salaries vary depending on geographic location, economic conditions, and willingness to relocate. Salaries by occupation and specific location can be found on the O*NET website. National figures for labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy are available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can also visit the campus career services department to learn where IntelliTec College graduates work and the beginning salaries in their respective careers.

How Is the Job Outlook?

The overall outlook for Cosmetologists is bright. According to O-Net online, employment for Cosmetologists in Colorado is projected to grow 38 percent from 2020 to 2030 faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for hair coloring, hair straightening, and other advanced hair treatments has grown in recent years, and that trend should continue.**

 **According O*Net OnLine Retrieved 4/25/2025.

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Cosmetologist Program

Graduates of the IntelliTec College Cosmetologist program will have developed the skills in a hands-on environment to function effectively as an entry-level cosmetologist working independently or as a member of a salon team. Graduates will be prepared to perform salon services including all aspects of hairstyling, professional facial and skin care, and nail services. Curriculum also includes an emphasis on business practices, marketing, and sales. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the Cosmetologist State Board Exam.

Locations:

Program length: 15 Months*

Award: Certificate

Clock hours: 1695

Credentialing Information: State Board Cosmetologist License exam  

During your time at IntelliTec College, develop hands-on skills by learning the following from licensed cosmetologists and/or former salon owners:

  • Cosmetologist training in hair styling and coloring, chemical texturizing, facial and skin care treatment, nail services and make-up techniques
  • Real-life client experience in the IntelliTec College Cosmetology Salon
  • Tools for the Trade: When you begin your program, you’ll purchase a complete cosmetologist’s kit stocked with essential hairstyling, nail care, and skincare tools. This kit is yours to keep—even after you graduate.
  • Pivot Point methodology in hair cutting, styling, and treatment
  • The Summit Salon Academy business model educates students on the importance of personal communication in client retention and marketing when building a business
  • How to prepare for your Colorado State Board of Cosmetology exam.

Here’s what will you learn in the Cosmetologist training program:

COS-100 Introduction to Cosmetology Theory & Application
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

After successful completion of this course, the students will have knowledge of the theory and basic Cosmetology applications and fundamentals. Students will have an understanding of the history of Cosmetology and be able to perform basic Cosmetology services in a safe and sanitary manner. Students will be able to identify nail disorders and diseases. Students will be able to perform manicures and pedicures. Students will be able to identify scalp diseases and disorders. Students will be able to do a scalp analysis, scalp manipulations and be able to Thermal style the hair.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-102 Intermediate Cosmetology Theory & Application
Prerequisite(s): COS-100

This course provides Cosmetology students with theory and practical skill applications that take place in a classroom setting. Students will practice intermediate skills learned in the classroom and lab setting to include MATRIX C.R.A.F.T. Methodology.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-103 Introduction to Clinic Floor Services & Practices 1
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that takes place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-104 Cosmetology Theory & Skills Clinic 2
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102, COS-103

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that take place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-105 Cosmetology Theory & Skills Clinic 3
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102, COS-103, COS-104

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that take place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-106 Cosmetology Theory & Skills Clinic 4
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102, COS-103, COS-104, COS-105

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that take place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-107 Cosmetology Service Industry Professional Clinic 5
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102, COS-103, COS-104, COS-105, COS-106

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that take place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
COS-108 Cosmetology Service Industry Professional Clinic 6
Prerequisite(s): COS-100, COS-102, COS-103, COS-104, COS-105, COS-106, COS-107

After successful completion of this term, the students will have a greater understanding of working knowledge of the correct cosmetology theory, application of cosmetology skills, safety and administration of sanitation, disinfection and sterilization. Cosmetology students will participate in advanced theory courses and practical skills application that take place in a classroom setting as well as on the cosmetology clinic floor. The students will demonstrate knowledge in all areas of basic chemistry, permanent waving, and chemical hair relaxers. Students will understand the fundamentals of hair color to include the laws of color, the level system, and contributing pigment. Students will practice skin care and nail care services and participate in learning the importance of client consultation and post treatment care. Continued product knowledge of Matrix retail products will be reviewed to allow students the opportunity to practice their retail sales skills.

Credit Hours: 180 Clock Hours
STB-109 Cosmetology Capstone
Prerequisite(s): All courses

After successful completion of this course, the students will have an understanding of the requirements throughout the State of Colorado of Cosmetology in regards to State laws, rules and regulations according to the Colorado Board of Cosmetology. The students will have a working knowledge of Cosmetology theory, practical applications, safety and administration of sanitation, as well as disinfection and sterilization. They will utilize skills learned in a clinical classroom setting with practical skill practice on mannequins and clients. Students will be given an overall review of theory in regards to preparation for taking their Colorado State Board of Cosmetology Written Exam.

Credit Hours: 120 Clock Hours
CCR-100 College and Career Readiness
Prerequisite(s): NA

College and Career Readiness is the first six-week course designed to prepare students for Career Training Success. Classes meet 20 hours per week, Monday through Thursday. Class times available are either 9:00am – 2:00pm for day time students and 5:00pm – 10:00pm for night time students.

Credit Hours: 120 Clock Hours
ACD-150 Advanced Career Development
Prerequisite(s): NA

Advanced Career Development is offered toward the end of your program and is designed to prepare students for Career Success. Classes meet for a total of 15 hours during the scheduled term.

Credit Hours: 15 Clock Hours
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Industry Partnerships


The Salon at IntelliTec College is proud to use high-quality Redken products in our services.

The professional instructors in the IntelliTec College Cosmetologist training program use the Summit Salon Academy business model and Pivot Point methodology to train competent future Cosmetologists. Pivot Point methodology provides advanced technical skills training for hair coloring applications, cutting techniques, and styling methods. As part of their tuition, our student cosmetologists receive a kit and branded apparel. Students also enjoy the opportunity to showcase their skills at local shows.

Is Hands-On Training for a Career as a Cosmetologist Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in exploring whether IntelliTec College’s educational training programs for career opportunities in the world of cosmetology are right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

A helpful IntelliTec College Admissions Representative will be happy to answer any questions you have and can help with everything from determining the right career path for you to discussing financial aid options.

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IntelliTec College Locations

IntelliTec College has 4 accredited campus locations in Colorado Springs, CO, Grand Junction, CO, Pueblo, CO, and Albuquerque, NM. Each of our campuses provides a unique learning experience, helping you become a career-ready professional. Explore your career options today!

Grand Junction Campus

Pueblo Campus

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