Career Cluster Business and Consumer Services
Cosmetology programs directly prepare students to become licensed cosmetologists--including offering the mandated 1,000 training hours required to become licensed and begin working in the field. Students learn a variety of skincare, nail care, hair care and beauty techniques. Because they work closely with people and handle several strong chemicals, safety and sanitation standards are reinforced throughout the learning process. Skills required for running and succeeding in a small business environment are explored, including customer service, marketing, employability and business finance and management. Training also covers professional ethics and Massachusetts laws and regulations.
Standards are critical areas of competency aligned to industry identified skills and Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs) that will support student success in the field. Standards provide the structure that empowers the teacher to choose the best curriculum and instructional approaches to guide skill and knowledge development for students. Industry Recognized Credentials IRCs demonstrate standards and skills that strengthen student access to careers upon graduation. Each framework identifies at least one essential safety and essential industry credential, with supplemental and specialized credentials identified to help expand opportunities.
The following resources are provided to support educators in developing curriculum and delivering instruction related to this framework.
The following Scope and Sequence template is a planning tool for Career Technical Education CTE programs to map out a coherent 4-year progression of courses, content, and skills in alignment with the Massachusetts Career Technical Education CTE Frameworks.
The following Math Lesson and Teachers Guide provide an illustration of how a specific math concept is used in the context of career application. Visit the Math Resources tab for more information about Career Connected Math.
Thinking about a career in Cosmetology? Whether you're a student exploring your options or a family member supporting their journey, the resources below can help you find a program near you and learn more about what to expect from a Massachusetts Career Technical Education CTE program.
For Career Technical Education CTE Chapter 74 programs, instructors can refer to these resources in developing the 900+ hours of required learning time.
**Disclosure Statement: Reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Our office is not responsible for and does not in any way guarantee the accuracy of information in other sites accessible through links herein. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education DESE may supplement this list with other services and products that meet the specified criteria. For more information contact: ccte@mass.gov
Qualified teachers will hold a Career Technical Teacher license in Cosmetology.
Last Updated: July 24, 2026