Cosmetology Schools In Corpus Christi – Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I have to have a high school diploma or GED?

No, however the state of Texas does require that you take an equivalency test before you finish your beauty program.  Bella Beauty College will set that test up for you to be held on location at our school.

How old do I have to be to start the beauty program?

To start classes at Bella Beauty College you have to be at least 16 years of age.

What if I am still attending high school?

If you are in your Junior or Senior year, our admissions director will set up a personally customized attendance schedule for you to attend Bella Beauty College while you are still enrolled in high school.

 I have a job, can I still attend Bella Beauty College?

Yes, in your interview with our Admissions Director, we can set up a personalized schedule to fit your busy life.

Does Bella Beauty College offer financial assistance?

Yes, we have a variety of payment options.  We offer seasonal scholarships and performance scholarships based on a student’s personal situation.  An Admissions Director will be able to explain your options and help you with this process.

I have young children at home, is there a schedule for me?

Yes, in your interview with our Admissions Director, we will discuss what will work best for you and your family and can set up a personalized schedule to fit your needs.

How do I get started and what do I need to enroll at Bella Beauty College?

The first step in starting an exciting career in the beauty industry is contacting Bella’s Admissions Director to schedule an interview at one of our locations.  Our Admissions Director will be able to answer all your questions and help you decide which program is best suited for you.  We are here to assist you in reaching your goals.

How long is the program?

The cosmetology course is a 1000 clock hour program.  Since clock hour programs depend on how many hours you attend per week, if you attend a full time schedule it can take as little as 6 ½ months to complete.

The esthetician program is a 750 hour course and if you attend a full time schedule, can be completed in about 4 ½ months.

The nail technician course requires 600 hours and if you attend a full time schedule, will only take around 3 ½ months to complete.

What hours will I attend school?

Most of our Bella Beauty College locations have both day and evening classes available.  Our Admissions Director will provide you with the perfect schedule to fit your busy life.

When am I able to begin practicing on clients?

We break down each program into Phases.  Below you can see how the program works if you enter Cosmetology.

Phase One:  1 – 150 Clock Hours

Upon entering the cosmetology field you will be learning the basics of hair shaping, styling, coloring, permanent waving, skin care, and nails. You will be taught with other Phase One students, step by step procedures to do each service.

Phase Two:  151 – 750 clock hours

After completing Phase One you will be assigned to the clinic (salon) area of your school.  You will be performing services on clients, who are allowing you, the practicing professional, to perform services with the supervision of your licensed instructor.  You will learn how to do client consultations and practice each beauty service.  This is when you will master your speed and manual dexterity.

Phase Three:  751 – 1000 Clock Hours

The final stage of your preparation is preparing for the state licensing exam.  You will take and pass a written and practical exam to gain your license from the state of Texas.

All Phases:  1 – 1000 Clock Hours

You will attend theory class every day for one hour.  This will be in a traditional classroom setting with a textbook and workbook.  The remainder of your day will be spent working hands-on, either on a mannequin or an actual client.

Do I need to take an exam to attain my license?

Yes, in order to become a licensed cosmetologist, you will take a written and practical exam off site at a testing center designated by the state of Texas.  Bella’s Education Director will set up the training in Phase Three where you will thoroughly prepare for both your written and practical exams.

Are there many job opportunities available to graduating students? Yes, there are an abundance of jobs in the field of cosmetology. According to the U.S. Labor Department there is an average of 3 jobs for each cosmetology school graduate. This means there is a unique zero unemployment factor in the beauty industry.

What is the average starting salary for those entering the field? The average starting salary for a cosmetologist is around $28,000. However, as you advance your salary will increase. According to U.S. Labor Department statistics the national average salary is $38,700, while the average salary for a cosmetologist practicing in Texas is $47,450.