What Is Cosmetology School Like at ISSA in Colorado Springs?
What Is Cosmetology School?
Cosmetology school is a state-licensed training program that prepares students to become professional cosmetologists. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice, covering hair, skin, and nail services. Upon completing the required hours and passing a state board exam, graduates receive a Colorado cosmetology license.
At ISSA — International Salon and Spa Academy in Colorado Springs — the cosmetology program is designed to cover both the art and the science of the profession, preparing students for the full range of services a licensed cosmetologist can perform.
What Do You Learn in Cosmetology School?
ISSA's cosmetology program covers three core areas:
Hair: Cutting, shaping, and styling for all hair types and textures. Color theory and application including highlights, single-process, balayage, and corrective color. Chemical services including perms, relaxers, and texturizers. Blowouts, updos, and special occasion styling. Scalp health and hair treatments.
Skin: Facial treatments and basic esthetics, skin analysis, waxing, and skincare product knowledge.
Nails: Manicures, pedicures, and nail care fundamentals.
Professional skills: Client consultation, sanitation and safety protocols, state board exam preparation, salon business basics, and professional ethics.
The breadth of the cosmetology license is one of its biggest advantages. Graduates can specialize, diversify, or shift focus throughout their career without starting over.
How Long Does Cosmetology School Take in Colorado?
ISSA's cosmetology program takes 15 months full-time or 22.5 months part-time. Both schedules lead to the same outcome: hours completed, state board eligibility, and a Colorado cosmetology license.
The part-time evening track exists specifically for students who are working, parenting, or managing other responsibilities while they complete their training.
What Are the Requirements to Get Into Cosmetology School?
To enroll at ISSA, applicants need a high school diploma or GED. No prior beauty experience is required. ISSA accepts students from a wide range of ages and backgrounds — students range from 17 to 65 years old. If you have the desire to learn, you meet the baseline.
What Is a Typical Day Like in Cosmetology School?
A typical day at ISSA is split between two environments:
Theory and classroom instruction covers the science and knowledge behind cosmetology — color chemistry, skin anatomy, sanitation protocols, product ingredients, and state board content. This portion prepares students for the written section of the Colorado state board exam and builds the foundational understanding that supports everything done on the clinic floor.
Clinic floor hours take place in ISSA's student salon, which is open to the public. Students work on real clients under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. This hands-on experience is how classroom knowledge becomes transferable, professional-level skill.
How Much Does Cosmetology School Cost?
Cosmetology school costs vary depending on program length, kit requirements, and the institution. At ISSA, textbooks are included in each program's kit. Tuition and fee specifics are covered in detail during admissions consultations.
Financial aid is available for students who qualify, including federal financial aid programs. ISSA's admissions team walks every prospective student through available options before enrollment. The best way to get accurate cost information is to contact ISSA directly — the conversation is free and there is no obligation.
How Do You Get a Cosmetology License in Colorado?
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Colorado, you must:
Complete a state-approved cosmetology program (1,500 hours)
Pass the Colorado state board exam, which consists of two parts: a practical (hands-on) exam and a written exam
Apply for your Colorado cosmetology license
ISSA's program is structured to prepare students for both portions of the state board exam. Practical exams can be taken at the Garden of the Gods location in Colorado Springs or in Denver.
What Can You Do With a Cosmetology License?
A Colorado cosmetology license opens a wide range of career paths:
Salon employment as a stylist or colorist
Booth rental — renting your own chair and setting your own schedule
Salon ownership
Bridal and special event styling
Editorial work — film, TV, photography, and fashion
Work in medical or clinical settings alongside dermatologists or in care facilities
Cosmetology education — becoming an instructor after meeting additional licensure requirements
Continuing education specializations such as dermaplaning, eyelash extensions, and cosmetic resurfacing
Is Cosmetology School Hard?
Cosmetology school is a real educational commitment. There is theory to study, techniques that take significant repetition to master, and state board preparation that requires consistent effort. Students who attend regularly, study consistently, and practice diligently typically succeed.
The students who do best are not necessarily those with natural artistic talent on day one. They are the ones who show up, take feedback, and keep practicing.
Why Choose ISSA for Cosmetology School in Colorado Springs?
ISSA has been training cosmetology students in Colorado Springs since 1971. It is nationally accredited by NACCAS, locally owned, and veteran-led since 1999. Key program features include:
Instructors with professional industry experience
A public-facing student salon that provides real client experience from early in the program
Training on industry-standard tools and professional-grade products
Full-time and part-time scheduling options
Financial aid available for qualifying students
Textbooks included in program kits
How Do I Apply to Cosmetology School at ISSA?
The first step is getting in touch. ISSA's admissions team will walk you through program options, scheduling, costs, and financial aid — with no pressure and no obligation.
Contact ISSA: 📞 (719) 597-1413 📧 ISSACO@ISSACO.EDU 📍 5707 N. Academy Boulevard, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Hours: Mon–Thurs: 8AM–9PM | Fri: 8AM–5PM | Sat: 8AM–3PM
International Salon and Spa Academy (ISSA) is a locally owned cosmetology school in Colorado Springs, CO, in operation since 1971. Programs include cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nail technology, and continuing education. Nationally accredited by NACCAS. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.