Esthetics Technology

Wallace Campus Only

The Esthetics Technology program is designed to provide students with basic knowledge and skills for employment as an esthetician in a salon, spa or as a cosmetic consultant. Students will learn how to provide preventative and maintenance care for the skin and may also manufacture, sell, and apply cosmetics. With specialized training, they may choose to work for a dermatologist and provide various treatments for problematic skin under supervision. Students are required to purchase their own esthetics kit and books.

Students completing all courses listed in the curriculum will be awarded a program certificate and will be eligible to apply for the Alabama State Board Examination if they have a minimum of a 10th grade high school equivalency and be at least sixteen years old. After passing the examination, graduates are awarded a license to practice as an Esthetician in Alabama. Admission is conditional and depends on the student’s ability to perform the essential functions identified for this program. A high school diploma or GED is not required; however, students are required to demonstrate college and career readiness (see Admission to Courses Not Creditable Toward an Associate Degree in the Admissions Policies and Procedures section of this catalog). Reasonable accommodations are considered.

 

Degrees and Certificates

Course Descriptions

COS 134: Advanced Esthetics

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 6
This course includes an advanced study of anatomy and physiology relating to skin care, cosmetic chemistry, histology of the skin, and massage and facial treatments. Upon completion, the student should be able to discuss the functions of the skin, effects of chemicals on skin, different types of massage and benefits, and key elements of the basic facial treatment.
Prerequisites

As required by college.

COS 135: Advanced Esthetics Applications

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 9
This course provides advanced practical applications related to skin care. Principal topics include massage techniques, various facial treatments, proper product application through skin analysis, and introduction to ingredients and treatments, prescribe proper type of facial treatment and product, and demonstrate facials using any of the eight functions of the facial machine.
Prerequisites

As required by college.

COS 163: Facial Treatments

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 6
This course includes all phases of facial treatments in the study of skin care. Topics include treatments for oily, dry, and special skin applications. Upon completion, students will be able to apply facial treatments according to skin type.
Prerequisites

As required by college.

COS 164: Facial Machines

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 9
This is a course designed to provide practical experience using the vapor and facial machine with hydraulic chair. Topics include the uses of electricity and safety practices, machine and apparent, use of the magnifying lamp, and light therapy. Upon completion, the student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of electrical safety and skills in the use of facial machines.
Prerequisites

As required by college.

COS 165: Related Subjects Estheticians

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 9
This course includes subjects related to the methods for removing unwanted hair. This course includes such topics as electrolysis information and definitions, safety methods of permanent hair removal, the practice of removal of superfluous hair, and the use of depilatories. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to apply depilatories and practice all safety precautions.
Prerequisites

As required by college.

COS 167: State Board Review

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 6
Students are provided a complete review of all procedures and practical skills pertaining to their training in the program. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate the practical skills necessary to complete successfully the required State Board of Cosmetology examination and entry-level employment.

COS 168: Bacteriology and Sanitation

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 6
In this skin care course, emphasis is placed on the decontamination, infection control and safety practiced in the esthetics facility. Topics covered include demonstration of sanitation, sterilization methods and bacterial prevention. Upon completion, the student will be able to properly sanitize facial implements and identify non-reusable items.

COS 169: Skin Functions

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 9
This course introduces skin functions and disorders. Topics include practical application for skin disorder treatments, microdermabrasion, and skin refining. Upon completion of this course students will be able to demonstrate procedures for acne, facials and mask for deeper layers and wrinkles.

COS 181: Special Topics Theory

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 3 Lab Hours 0
This course is designed to allow students to explore issues relevant to the profession of cosmetology. Upon completion, students should have developed new skills in areas of specialization for the cosmetology profession.

COS 182: Special Topics Lab

Credits 3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 9
This course is designed to allow students to explore issues relevant to the profession of cosmetology. Upon completion, students should have developed new skills in areas of specialization for the cosmetology profession.