The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.
The courses have been intentionally placed and should be prioritized in
the order
in which they appear. If you are unable to take all the courses in
a semester, you
should prioritize enrolling in the courses in the order below.
Some courses have
been noted as “Appropriate for Intersession” 
. Should you need (or want) to take
classes
in the summer and/or winter intersessions,
the program recommends these courses as appropriate for the condensed
schedule of
the intersessions.
Some pathways combine a “Certificate of Achievement” and an “Associate
Degree”. If
you are pursuing only the Certificate of Achievement, you are only
required to take
the courses marked “Program Requirement” 
.
All pathways include at least one “Gateway Course” 
which introduces you to the program and/or field of study and helps you
decide if you want to continue with this Academic and Career Path.
Most Associate degrees (though not Associate Degrees for Transfer)
require satisfying the SMC Global Citizenship requirement. If the Program
Requirements do not include a “Global Citizenship course” 
, be sure to select a General Education course that also satisfies Global Citizenship.
The Cosmetology Department is an exciting place to learn about the barbering industry. We welcome you to join our program where you can obtain the practical and technical skills necessary for optimal success. The classrooms are similar to a salon/barbershop atmosphere, with the latest technology creating a positive learning environment for students. Students will have the opportunity to provide services for members of the community, students, faculty and staff of Santa Monica College, including family and friends.
This well-established department will prepare you for a barbering license from the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. After successful completion of the program and passing the state board exam, a career in barbering offers multiple employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, such as: platform artist, educator, barber, colorist, salon owner, sales representative, cruise ships, television and film industries.
Information regarding the barbering program is available at the Cosmetology Department, (310) 434-4294, and through the SMC website (www.smc.edu).
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to demonstrate entry level skills in hair cutting, hair coloring, hair styling, shaving with a razor, men’s styling and chemical texture.
- Upon completion, the student will be eligible to take the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology licensure exam.
- The student will be able to recognize and demonstrate the importance of and practice of ethical behavior in a professional work setting.
- Apply theories, principles, and concepts of skills learned that apply to Barbering and follow the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Rules and Regulations.
General Education
Available Online
