The first step toward a rewarding beauty career is developing a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. Students in Columbia have access to a curriculum designed to prepare them for state board licensing and to help them build the foundational skills for success in salons and spas.
At the West Columbia campus, both cosmetology and esthetics programs give learners hands-on experience, guided instruction, and the right tools to launch a rewarding future in beauty.
Whether the goal is to become a hairstylist, esthetician, or even a future salon owner, the training emphasizes more than just classroom theory. From practicing in student salons to learning customer service through ProsperU’s career success training, students develop the skills and experience needed to pursue a career in beauty.
Building Your Foundation in Beauty Education
A strong curriculum begins with exposure to real-world practice and supportive teaching. At the West Columbia campus, students find:
- Cosmetology and esthetics programs now enrolling.
- Hands-on training in salon and spa environments.
- Instructors who provide personalized guidance.
- Business education is integrated into the curriculum through ProsperU.
- Student support, including success coaches and financial aid coordinators for those who qualify.
This environment is designed to help each student learn the techniques of the trade and begin developing a professional mindset for success in the beauty industry. The campus itself reflects this focus, with modern salon and spa spaces designed to mirror the environments where graduates will eventually work. Details like the esthetics equipment and salon chairs in cosmetology help simulate professional environments students may experience after graduation.
Core Programs and Skill Development at Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology
The West Columbia campus offers two main programs that form the foundation of beauty education: cosmetology and esthetics. Each program is designed to combine classroom learning with hands-on practice, offering students a well-rounded learning experience. By working directly with industry products, tools, and guided instruction, learners are able to build the skills required to succeed in their chosen path.
Cosmetology Program
The cosmetology program spans 1,500 hours and prepares students with foundational skills to enter the hair and beauty industry. Core highlights include:
- Cutting and coloring techniques: Training with Redken systems helps students master modern color applications and styling methods.
- Structured learning: The program is divided into four stages: Skill, Design, Style, and Master—ensuring growth from basics to advanced techniques.
- State board readiness: Instruction covers the topics required for South Carolina’s written and practical licensing exams.
- Hands-on experience: Supervising work in student salons builds confidence in real client services.
- Tools and technology: Each student receives a customized tool kit, including a tablet for online learning.
- Career training: ProsperU’s business education equips learners with client communication, customer service, and career growth skills.
Esthetics Program
The esthetics program focuses on skin health and beauty, offering 600 hours. Students can gain:
- Professional product training: Practice with Circadia and Mettle makeup.
- Clinic-based learning: Training in spa-like environments mirrors real skincare facilities.
- Exam preparation: Curriculum is designed to help students prepare for the South Carolina state board licensing exam.
- Skin analysis and care: Instruction covers how to analyze, treat, and beautify skin while recognizing conditions that require medical referral.
- Essential kits: Customized esthetics kits include makeup, eyelash products, a wax kit, and tools required for state board testing.
Day and Night Class Availability
Understanding that students have different schedules, the West Columbia campus also offers night classes. This option allows learners to balance personal commitments while still receiving the full training needed for cosmetology or esthetics programs. Whether enrolled in day or night classes, the curriculum provides the same level of instruction and support to help students succeed.
Preparing for Long-Term Success
The programs at the West Columbia campus reflect everything needed for a strong career in the beauty field. Students gain technical mastery, salon and spa experience, and business training that prepares them for real-world opportunities. For anyone wondering what do you learn in cosmetology school, this combination of skills demonstrates the answer: a balance of creativity, professionalism, and career preparation. Even those searching for a beauty school in Columbia will find that West Columbia provides comprehensive training.
Graduates leave the program with practical training and a foundation in client communication to support their transition into entry-level beauty careers. The focus on state board preparation, business skills, and supervised practice is designed to help students enter the workforce with confidence in their training.
Conclusion: Start Your Beauty Journey
A Columbia beauty school curriculum offers students technical training, hands-on salon and spa experience, and business instruction intended to support their success in the beauty industry. Student support includes success coaches and financial aid coordinators for those who qualify. Whether choosing cosmetology or esthetics, students at the West Columbia campus gain the skills, support, and confidence to launch their careers.
Your beauty career begins here at Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology. Schedule a tour, explore the programs, and discover how Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology can support your future in the beauty industry.
Licensure requires passing the South Carolina state board exam. Job placement is not guaranteed. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Completion times may vary. Results may vary by individual student.
