Cosmetology

Why Cosmetology?

Cosmetologists are artists and innovators who bring creativity and confidence to every client they serve. In this program, you will learn the techniques of hair design, skin care, and nail artistry while mastering the science behind beauty and wellness. You will develop the skills to help people look and feel their best through your creativity, attention to detail, and passion for transformation.

At Mid-State, you will start by perfecting your craft on mannequins before advancing to real clients in the on-campus salon. You’ll gain professional experience, build confidence, and graduate ready for immediate employment in the beauty industry.

Practice hair, skin, and nail techniques that meet professional industry standards.
Develop creativity, flexibility, and attention to detail in every service you perform.
Engage in community events and projects that enhance your learning experience.
Choose full-time day or part-time evening program options that fit your schedule.
Join a high-demand industry that values artistry, skill, and personal connection.
Students, staff, and the public can receive beauty and hair care services offered by The Salon at Mid-State on the Wisconsin Rapids Campus.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

34 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

One Year

Delivery Method

In Person

Location

Wisconsin Rapids

Start Dates

Fall, Spring, Summer

Estimated Program Cost

$8,447.97

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Fully Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Cosmetologist

Esthetician

Hair Stylist

Makeup Artist

Manicurist/Pedicurist

$36k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $36,179. Source: Lightcast Data Set

246

Average Monthly Hires

246 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

95%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Stacy Brock, BA
Stacy received a bachelor of arts degree in 2014 from Concordia University Wisconsin. She also received her technical diploma for Cosmetology in 1997. Stacy worked for a corporate salon in addition to owning her own salon before pursuing her teaching career. She is currently a full-time instructor and program director at Mid-State for the Cosmetology and Barber Technologist programs. She believes in hard work and is very dedicated to the cosmetology industry. She enjoys sharing her passion for the industry in the classroom.

“Work hard in silence and let your success make the noise.”

Hollie Van De Loop, AAS
Hollie earned her technical certificates in Cosmetology and Barbering from Mid-State in 2017 and holds Wisconsin state licensure for both. Previously she completed her associate in applied science at Northcentral Technical College. She started out teaching part-time in Mid-State’s Cosmetology and Barbering Technology programs before transitioning into a full-time role.

“I loved my experience here at Mid-State as a student and am very excited that I now get to teach here and share my passion for the beauty industry with all the students to come.”

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Apply safety and sanitation procedures.
Adhere to the current Wisconsin administrative codes and statutes for cosmetology.
Demonstrate interpersonal skills for success.
Perform hair cutting services.
Perform shampoo services.
Perform skin care services.
Perform texture services.
Perform hair color services.
Demonstrate hair styling and finishing techniques.
Perform nail services.
Develop strategies to market products and services.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad