What It's All About

In the cosmetology program, you will learn the art, science and business of the beauty industry. Students completing the program can choose to work in a specific area of the cosmetology field or advance their training to become a Cosmetology instructor. Students in the cosmetology program will receive a combination of classroom and laboratory work, with opportunities to practice their skills on mannequins and actual customers in the campus salon/studio. Students will learn hair shaping, hair coloring, chemical texturizing, design and artistic principles. Additional subjects include: artificial nails, bacteriology, decontamination, infection control, manicures and pedicures as prescribed by the Michigan State Board of Cosmetology Laws and Rules. 

In their first semester, students will purchase books, and a cosmetology kit consisting of items such as manikins, shears, clippers, combs, rollers, etc. This is a one-time cost for the program. For current kit pricing, contact the NMU Barnes & Noble Bookstore.

Job Outlook

Projected Job Growth

to 2029
+12% (Michigan)

Education Levels

of current workers
44% high school diploma
32% some college
12% associate degree
6% bachelor's degree


Earnings, job growth and education levels noted are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (National), and CareerOneStop/U.S. Department of Labor (Michigan).

 

Licensure Information

To learn more about the state licensure requirements, visit our licensure page.

cosmetology students doing clients hair

“Recently I have been making TikTok videos about what my Cosmetology class is like, sharing with the viewers what I do during the day. People are excited to learn about this program in general but they are extremely excited to learn that it is offered at the university level where they too could enjoy college life - living in dorms, meeting great friends, and attending sporting events.”

Lucy Seitz

Programs

Cosmetologist

Two Year Certificate

The cosmetology certificate program prepares graduates for employment as professional cosmetologists, performing work as a cosmetologist, manicurist, esthetician and natural hair culturist. This certification is needed to prepare gradates for entry-level positions in the work environment. Scientific principles and theories are applied through hands-on techniques. This certificate is built on the student's first semester as the foundation for work on the public. Second semester builds on this foundation by adding to the practical theories and applications that were not taught in the prior semester. Third semester adds the advanced techniques that would be found in a professional salon. Fourth semester prepares the student for owning and operating a business, preparing for the state board exam, and completing a review of all theory to become eligible to take the Michigan State Board Examination. 

 

Program Outline

Esthetics

One Semester Certificate

For those interested in pursing a career focused entirely on skin care, the esthetics certificate can be completed in one semester. This program provides skills in the study of the skin as it pertains to the head, face and neck. Students will experience learning through guided practice by skilled faculty. Topics will include: sanitation, safety, general anatomy and physiology, disorders and diseases of the skin, artistic principles, skin care techniques and temporary hair removal. After completing the certificate students will be eligible to take the Michigan State Board examination. 

 

Program Outline

Manicure

One Semester Certificate

The manicure certificate program is a comprehensive training that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the art of nail care and design. Through hands-on learning, students will master techniques in nail shaping, cuticle care, hand and arm massage, and the application of nail polish and nail enhancements. Additionally, the program covers topics such as sanitation, safety protocols, customer service, and business fundamentals, providing students with a well-rounded education to pursue a successful career as a professional manicurist.

 

Program Outline

Cosmetology Instructor

One Semester Certificate

Students enrolled in the cosmetology instructor program receive training about the Michigan laws governing the cosmetology profession, teaching techniques, record keeping and administration of a school of cosmetology. They will work closely with the instructors, students and visiting customers.

Program Outline

Natural Hair Cultivation

One Semester Certificate

Students in the Natural Hair Culturist certificate learn to care for natural hair using techniques that put tension on hair strands such as twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, plaiting, or braiding by hand or creating a hair system through wig construction.  In order to do this, students develop an understanding of human anatomy, physiology and nutrition as it pertains to the scalp and hair, common disorders, and a variety of hair types.

Program Outline

 

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cosmetology student curling a customers hair

The Salon

Northern Michigan University’s cosmetology students gain essential experience within a full salon setting. After completing the necessary theory and practical applications (350 hours working with mannequins), cosmetology students begin their work with customers. The Cosmetology Salon operates in a new space in the Northern Center on Northern Michigan University's campus.

Students, faculty, staff and members of the community are invited to schedule an appointment to take advantage of the following services:

  • haircuts
  • braids/extensions
  • coloring
  • perms
  • manicures/pedicures
  • facials
  • conditioning treatments
  • styling (i.e. proms, weddings)

Appointments are available Mondays through Thursdays between 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. during the academic year, the end of August through the end of April, with break for Thanksgiving and other holidays as well. 

Call (906) 227-2383 for reservations.

 

 

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Flyer promoting natural hair care services at the student salon

We have new services available at the Student Salon!

Contact Information

The NMU Cosmetology Program and Student Salon 

Both the Cosmetology Program and Student Salon are located at:

Northern Center at Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Ave.
Room 1205

Map

Phone: 906-227-2383

Cosmetology Faculty & Staff

 

Denise Hudson | Instructor, Program Coordinator

Phone: 906-227-2386
Email: dehudson@nmu.edu

Profile

 

Charmaine Goodlow | Instructor

Email: cgoodlow@nmu.edu 

 

Michelle Whitaker | Instructor

Email: mihendri@nmu.edu