Hair Design Associate of Applied Technology Degree
Educating students in all aspects of professional hair design, providing services to the hair, head, neck or scalp. It includes hair conditioning treatments, haircutting, hairstyling, hair coloring, and chemical texturizing. Successful graduates are prepared for the Washington State Department of Licensing Hair Designer examination, and upon licensure will be qualified for positions as hair designers. Students will participate in realistic training in the student-operated salon. Clover Park Technical College uses an interactive system of training, utilizing hands-on applications as well as up to 25 percent online training to support student learning. This model is considered a world leader in beauty education and provides innovative, high-quality educational systems that promote excellence in the hair and beauty industry.
The hair design license has been available in Washington State since 2016, and was developed for those wanting to specialize in hair design. This differs from the Cosmetology license, which also includes the ability to provide nail or skin care such as waxing, facials, manicuring and pedicures. Hair designers may return for the skin and nail care quarter. If a student/graduate does return to complete the skin and nail care courses, they will need to retest and pass the Washington State Department of Licensing written and practical examinations to receive the cosmetology license.
Physical Activity Requirements
Common physical requirements for Hair Design include physical stamina and dexterity due to frequent standing, repetitive motions, and fine motor skills. These include long intervals of standing, bending at the waist and holding that position, holding arms and hands at shoulder height, fine motor control using shears, clippers and other tools.
Employability Requirements
To qualify for a hair design license from the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), a student must successfully complete the technical courses offered in the program options, earn the required number of hours, and pass both the written and practical examinations required by the Washington Department of Licensing.
Program Length
This program is approximately five quarters long, depending on the time students need to satisfactorily complete all graduation requirements.
Admission Dates
Day Program: Summer, fall, winter, and spring quarters.
Evening Program: Summer quarter
Accreditation
This school is licensed under chapter 18.16 RCW. Inquiries, concerns, or complaints regarding this school can be made to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
Mailing Address:
Professional Licensing Support Services
Department of Licensing
PO BOX 9026
Olympia, WA 98507-9026
Phone: 360-664-6645
Email: plssunit@dol.wa.gov
Program Outcomes
• Provide inclusive, culturally responsive and empathetic client consultations and clarification of products and services.
• Evaluate diverse client needs and expectations, ensuring quality, relevant, feasible and inclusive hair design solutions.
• Uphold industry-standards to provide salon-quality hair design services that respect and accommodate the diverse cultures and personal preferences.
• Apply infection control principles, practices, and safety procedures mandated by state regulations to create a safe and inclusive workplace for clients, colleagues and salon environment.
• Use industry-specific technology and tools for successful practices in salon and/or spa.
• Apply Washington State board standards and testing information to prepare for successful licensure.
Completion Requirements
Grade Requirement
Students must complete and pass all courses in curriculum with a passing grade of ‘C’ (75 percent) or better to progress in the program.
Prerequisite(s)
Students must be at least 16.5 years of age to start earning hours towards the Washington State education requirements. A mandatory orientation is required prior to admission to the program.
Program Course List
Students not meeting state licensure hours requirements will take one or more of the following internship courses: