HAIR

1500 HOURS + ELECTIVES

1041 HOURS + ELECTIVES FOR ADV. TRACK

Our Hair program is designed to transform your passion for hairstyling into a professional, in-demand career. You’ll receive comprehensive training in haircutting, coloring, chemical texturizing, and styling, while staying on top of the latest trends and techniques in the industry. From mastering classic precision cuts to creating show-stopping, fashion-forward styles, you’ll build the skills and confidence to work in salons, backstage at events, or even as a platform artist.

What makes our program truly unique is the opportunity to customize your education. You’ll choose six electives from our Esthetics, Nails, or Makeup programs, giving you a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond hair alone. This flexibility allows you to enhance your creativity, increase your earning potential, and offer clients a broader range of services — making you a versatile, competitive professional in the beauty industry.

SCHEDULE

Monday | Wednesday | Friday from 9:00a - 4:00p

HAIR SESSION 1: August 2026 - June 2028

ADV TRACK: February 2027 - June 2028

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COURSES

** INDICATES ELECTIVES

  • Learn the basic structure of hair, hair growth phases, and hair types. Students will learn how to properly care for different hair types, identify various scalp conditions, diseases, and disorders, as well as identify damaged hair follicles and ends caused by chemical processing, tension, heat, and neglect/ abuse.

    72 Hours

  • A clean workspace is the foundation of every great beauty professional. In this course, students will dive into the science behind bacteriology and learn why sanitation is critical to client safety and professional success. You’ll explore different types of bacteria, proper cleaning and disinfection practices, and safe razor shaving techniques. By the end of the course, students will confidently identify harmful bacteria and apply industry-standard sanitation methods to create a safe, trusted, and professional environment.

    54 hours

  • Black Hair Lab is a hands-on exploration of the science, artistry, and innovation behind textured hair care. In this course, students go beyond the surface to understand what truly makes products work for coils, curls, and kinks. You’ll examine cosmetic ingredients, study formulation behavior, and learn how to evaluate product consistency, effectiveness, and stability. With a focus on products created for and embraced by the Black community, this lab empowers students to make informed, culturally competent choices and confidently serve textured hair with knowledge, intention, and pride.

    60 Hours

  • Understanding talent and passion must be met with professionalism for career longevity. Students will learn self-presentation, conflict resolution, email etiquette, social media etiquette, and behavior in public spaces.

    42 Hours

  • Learn about the various extensions available and the best way to customize the look to match each client’s needs. Students also gain valuable experience in dealing with all types of hair textures and types. Topics include quick weaving, sew-in weaving, micro-links, and tape-ins.

    78 Hours

  • Focuses on the chemical reformation of hair, as well as the combination, safe usage and storage of chemicals.

    45 Hours

  • The structure and meaning of enforceable contracts, as it relates to the beauty industry. Students learn how to properly draft and enforce contracts and policies for smooth business operation.

    36 Hours

  • Hair Fundamentals 101 lays the foundation for healthy hair and scalp care. This course introduces students to essential hair hygiene practices designed to protect and enhance the health of both the hair and scalp. Students will explore methods of hair and scalp treatments, including scalp manipulations that promote circulation and relaxation. Coursework also covers the anatomy related to scalp care, the tools and accessories used in professional treatments, and the proper application and benefits of hair conditioners. By the end of the course, students will have the knowledge and confidence to deliver effective, wellness-focused hair care services.

    69 Hours

  • This course focuses on the principles of hair design and their role in creating balanced, client-specific styles. Students learn the five principles of hair design, analyze seven facial shapes to determine the most flattering hairstyles, and practice professional consultation skills. Hands-on training includes wet-setting techniques, and essential updo preparation, building a strong foundation for advanced hairstyling and salon readiness.

    57 Hours

  • The technique of moving and directing hair, providing you valuable training in molding hair to the curved surface of the head.

    75 Hours

  • Following stylist prompts, students undergo timed, critiqued, individual assessments of a professional style on a model.

    84 Hours

  • The historical significance and cultural relevance of braids, and the exploration of various braided styles. Application techniques are discussed and performed, as well as the preventative and corrective techniques to protect hair from damage.

    75 Hours

  • Learn how to create big bouncy blowout looks that your clients want. Focus on creating volume, curls, discuss product application, and specific techniques to get the look and make it last.

    114 Hours

  • Students will learn how to develop and adapt your hair skills for male clients. Proficiency in male grooming tools, how to treat, shape and trim facial hair, and style various hair textures in order to achieve a complete, polished look.

    72 Hours

  • Students learn methods of preparing for State Board Exams, understanding the cosmetology laws specific to Maryland, and the importance of adhering to state regulations for best practices and proper maintenance of your brand or business. (*PRACTICE EXAMS*)

    54 Hours

  • Students discuss essential products and tools, modern inventory methods and applications, and effective kit maintenance.

    30 Hours

  • Focuses on gaining knowledge in areas such as personnel management, product selection, scheduling, and effective communication. Students will learn new tools and systems to streamline your business, create your culture and define a bold vision for your team.

    54 Hours

  • During this course, students will learn the fundamental principles of hair cutting, including core cutting techniques and professional tool mastery. Instruction also covers haircut finishing work such as outlining and detailing, head shaving, and proper safety and sanitation practices to ensure precision and client safety.

    120 Hours

  • Color is where creativity meets technique. In this course, students will explore the art and science of hair color, learning how color theory comes to life on hair. You’ll discover how hair color is classified, how lighteners transform natural pigment, and which professional products create the best results. Through guided practice, students will master proper application techniques for hair color and lightening, learn how to safely color facial hair, and understand the importance of safety and sanitation. By the end of the course, you’ll have the confidence to create beautiful, customized color services while protecting the health of the hair and scalp.

    129 Hours

  • After 1,000 education hours, students will engage in an externship or paid internship at an establishment or business approved by the Academy.

    HOURS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION: 90

    (COMPLETE BETWEEN MARCH 2027 - MAY 2028)

TUITION & PROGRAM COSTS

Our tuition is thoughtfully structured in line with national beauty school averages, ensuring affordability while providing students with the highest quality training, professional tools, and supportive learning environment.

HAIR - 1500 HOURS

NATIONAL AVERAGE

$20,000

SIX ELECTIVES

$3,600

LICENSE EXAM FEE

$80

PRO KIT, BOOKS, SUPPLIES

$1,500

PORTFOLIO

$500

TUITION COST

$25,680

ADVANCED TRACK HAIR - 1041 HOURS

Designed for students with prior cosmetology education, this advanced track focuses on completing licensure hours while elevating technical skill, professionalism, and career confidence. Students benefit from an efficient path to graduation without repeating foundational coursework. Students must present a transcript showing clock hours previously earned, and must have a minimum of 500 transferrable hours to be approved by the MD Board of Cosmetology.

DISCOUNTED AVERAGE

$15,000

SIX ELECTIVES

$3,600

LICENSE EXAM FEE

$80

PRO KIT, BOOKS, SUPPLIES

$1,500

PORTFOLIO

$500

TUITION COST

$20,680

Like most professional schools and universities, tuition is billed as a full program cost rather than in monthly installments. This ensures your place in the program is secured and your learning experience is uninterrupted. Monthly installments through private lenders is available.

    • All required instructional hours for your chosen program

    • Six elective courses from the remaining 3 Programs

    • Hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment

    • Access to our Academy’s student resources and learning facilities

    • Learning materials & fully stocked Professional Kit for you to keep

    • Professional photoshoot and developed portfolio upon graduation

    • Academic advising, career preparation, and mentorship

  • At CocoTea Beauty Academy, tuition is billed per program, similar to traditional universities. By paying tuition in full, your place in the program is secured from day one. This allows us to provide a seamless, uninterrupted education experience and ensures our academy maintains the highest standards of training without gaps in instruction, or the distraction and stress of monthly billing.

    • Pay Directly: Tuition is billed per program and paid in full prior to the program start date.

    • Financing Available: For students who need additional flexibility, CocoTea partners with trusted financing organizations that specialize in career and trade school loans. These lenders allow you to invest in your education today and repay over time, through monthly billing.

    • Scholarships & Grants: CocoTea Beauty Academy accepts scholarships and eligible grants where applicable (See Affordability).

  • The state of Maryland requires 1500 hours of instruction, to include 500 hours of theory and 1000 hours of hands-on learning. CocoTea Beauty Academy meets this state requirement with a board-approved curriculum.

  • Cosmetology licenses issued in Maryland are not automatically transferable to other states. Each state board has its own rules, training hour requirements, and reciprocity procedures. However, many states offer license-by-endorsement (reciprocity) if your Maryland education and experience meet their standards.

    To transfer your Maryland cosmetology license, you’ll need to:

    1. Contact the cosmetology board in the state where you wish to work.

    2. Verify your Maryland license through the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists.

    3. Submit documentation of your training hours, exams, and work experience.

    4. Complete any additional requirements such as a state-specific written or practical exam, or extra training hours if Maryland’s total is lower than the new state’s requirement.

    Always check with the destination state’s board before relocating or accepting clients to ensure you remain in compliance.