Orlando Schools with Cosmetology Programs
Those wishing to enter the cosmetology field have a few schools to consider in the Orlando, FL, area. Read about three of these schools, which are all less than an hour from downtown. Provided near the end of the article is a table comparing the schools, as well as a short section discussing another relevant school option.
- Located 13.9 miles from downtown Orlando in Winter Garden, FL, the Westside campus of Orange Technical College offers a 1200-hour cosmetology program.
- Lake Technical College, which is 35.9 miles from downtown Orlando in Eustis, FL, also offers a cosmetology program.
- Students can earn a cosmetology certificate at Eastern Florida State College, which is 47.5 miles from downtown Orlando in Cocoa, FL.
Comparison of Schools
Choosing a college can be difficult. The table below makes it easy to compare school statistics and make an informed decision.
| Orange Technical College | Lake Technical College | Eastern Florida State College | |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Type | 2-year; public | 2-year; public | 4-year; public |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 1,624* | 692* | 12,677* |
| Campus Setting | Large suburb | Midsize suburb | Large suburb |
| Tuition & Fees (2021-2022) | $3,653* | $3,806* | $2,496 for in-state; $9,739 for out-of-state* |
| % of First-Year Students Receiving Some Form of Financial Aid (2020-2021) | 75%* | 85%* | 89%* |
| Acceptance Rate (2021) | N/A - Open admissions | N/A - Open admissions | N/A - Open admissions |
| Retention Rate (2020-2021) | 75% (full-time)* | 71% (full-time)* | N/A* |
| Graduation Rate (for students who began studies in 2016) | 65% (for students who began studies 2018-19)* | 79% (for students who began studies 2018-19)* | 45% (for students who began studies 2015)* |
Sources: *NCES College Navigator
Orange Technical College
Founded in 1933, Orange Technical College has five campuses and offers programs focusing on various vocational skills. The college also offers programs for those seeking to obtain a high school diploma and learn English as well as apprenticeship programs.
Cosmetology Program
The curriculum of this program amounts to about 1,200 hours of work. In addition to basic cosmetology information, students also learn about physiology, anatomy, bacteriology and cosmetology law.
Lake Technical College
The cosmetology program at Lake Technical College lasts roughly 40 weeks and involves 1200 clock hours. Students must be at least 16 years old and follow a strict dress code, including no hats, hoodies, open-toed shoes or jackets. Some of the cosmetology items that students must purchase include mannequins, uniforms, shoes, hair styling supplies and scissors.
Cosmetology Program
The coursework for this program is broken up into four main classes and includes practical and classroom training. There are three courses on hairdressing and cosmetology that progressively work up to more advanced skills within the field. Additionally, students take a class that covers salon services like nail care and facials.
Eastern Florida State College
Individuals hoping to gain admission to Eastern Florida State College's cosmetology program first need to submit a minimum of one recommendation letter, complete competency tests and be high school graduates. Once admitted, in addition to the tuition costs, students must purchase a cosmetology kit and books, submit immunization records, purchase liability insurance and obtain a background check.
Cosmetology Certificate
Students in this program start off with two courses on beginning and intermediate cosmetology. From there, students take a class on advanced salon practices. Throughout the program, students learn salon skills through laboratory courses that start at a basic level and work up to advanced studies.
Other School Option
Situated about 40 miles from Orlando's downtown, Ridge Technical College, through the Polk County Public Schools, offers a cosmetology program as well as specialty programs in nails and facials.