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Cosmetology Instructor: Average Salary of a Cosmetology Instructor

Published Oct 13, 2009

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Cosmetology instructors are known as postsecondary vocational teachers or career and technical educators. Often they work in laboratory-style classrooms where classroom theory and hands-on instruction are taught simultaneously. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, postsecondary vocational educators, such as cosmetology instructors, may earn a competitive annual salary.

Cosmetology Instructor Career Summary

Although many postsecondary institutions require instructors to have a bachelor's degree for employment, cosmetology instructors may find vocational teaching positions with an associate's degree, certification or licensure in cosmetology. However, many career colleges or vocational institutions do require instructors to have at least three years' field-related experience before heading a classroom of their own.

In addition, continuing education or training may be required periodically to maintain cosmetology certification or licensure necessary for instruction. Instructors often work part-time for vocational schools and are able to blend their love of cosmetology with education. Due to their part-time, flexible schedules many cosmetology instructors own and run their own salons.

Cosmetology Instructor Career Outlook and Salary Information

Cosmetology instructors may expect better than average job growth through 2016. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov, predicts a 23% growth between 2006 and 2016 for postsecondary teachers. It also states that career-focused, nonacademic sectors, such as cosmetology, may benefit as students continue to zero in on learning vocations or industry-specific careers rather than obtaining academic degrees. In addition, more cosmetology instructors will be needed to replace retired instructors.

The BLS reports that Postsecondary teachers, including cosmetology instructors, earned salaries between $27,590 and $113,450 in 2006. The BLS also reports median annual earnings of postsecondary instructors at $56,120 in 2006. Faculty at 4-year colleges will earn more than instructors at 2-year colleges or vocational schools.

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