Hairdressing and Cosmetology

Part-Time Program Now Available at the Rochester Campus (Mon, Tues, Wed 9:30am-4:30pm). Full-Time Available at all Campuses.

If you are looking for a career that allows you to be creative and help people feel their best, then look no further. Since 1961, our committed instructors have upheld the standard of excellence in educating aspiring beauty professionals.

Our cosmetology students gain real-world experience in our student salon. This hands-on approach opens doors to exciting prospects, such as employment in salons and spas, with beauty brands, or even the opportunity to own your own salon.

Upon completion of the Continental Cosmetology program, our graduates come away with the skills and the confidence to help them go after their dreams.

Join us for the Continental experience and embark on a transformative journey towards a fulfilling career in the beauty industry.

Locations: Rochester (Full-Time & Part-Time), West Seneca (Full-Time), Syracuse (Full-Time)

What You Will Learn

At Continental School for Beauty, our hairdressing and cosmetology students will receive training that encompasses various aspects of beauty and hairstyling. Here’s an overview of what a cosmetology student will learn:

Hair Care & Styling

Instruction on hair cutting techniques and haircutting, layering, texturizing, and creating different styles. Students also learn about hair styling, blow-drying, curling, straightening, and updos.

Hair Coloring and Chemical Treatments

Training in hair coloring techniques such as highlights, lowlights, balayage, ombre, and corrective color. Students also learn about chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, and keratin treatments, as well as hair bleaching and toning.

Client Consultation and Communication

Developing effective communication skills to consult with clients, understand their needs and preferences, and provide personalized beauty services and recommendations.

Skin Care and Facials

Basics of skin anatomy, skincare products, and facial treatments.

Nail Care and Services

Instruction on basic manicure and pedicure procedures, including nail enhancements.

Makeup Application

Fundamentals of makeup application.

What You’ll Learn

Continental School of Beauty’s Hairdressing and Cosmetology school is a 1,000 hour program that may be completed in just over 8 months and offers full-time day programs at all campuses. Coursework covers topics that include:

Hair Cutting
Coloring
Nail Care
Hair Styling
Skin Care
Waxing
Salon Management

Rochester Cosmetology Info Session
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 5pm

Come get to know us, learn all about our Hairdressing & Cosmetology program, take part in a Q & A with Admissions and Financial Aid and more!

Experience the innovative learning environment of CIMA Digital Learning at Continental School of Beauty. As a student, you’ll have exclusive access to Milady’s cutting-edge platform, which offers a dynamic, flexible, and engaging learning experience. Seamlessly integrated with in-class instruction, this digital technology provides convenient access to course materials and helps you prepare for state licensure in a manner that’s both enjoyable and effective. Click here to learn more about our digital learning platform!

Cosmetology Career Paths

In the beauty industry, versatility is paramount, and at Continental School of Beauty, we empower you with abundant choices.

Our Hairdressing and Cosmetology program graduates’ benefit from comprehensive training that provides flexible pathways for specialization. Whether you opt to delve deeply into a particular area or explore a diverse range of techniques, the opportunities are boundless.

Here are some common options:

Salon Stylist / Technician: Work in a salon providing services such as haircuts, styling, coloring, manicures, pedicures, and skincare treatments.

Makeup Artist: Specialize in makeup application for events such as weddings, fashion shows, photo shoots, and film or television productions.

Skin Care: Focus on skincare treatments such as facials and chemical peels. Some estheticians also provide hair removal services like waxing.

Nail Care: Specialize in nail care services such as manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, and nail art.

Salon Manager / Owner: Manage or own a salon, overseeing day-to-day operations, staff management, customer service, and business development.

Platform Artist / Educator: Work for beauty product companies or cosmetology schools, demonstrating techniques, conducting workshops, and educating other cosmetologists.

Freelance Artist: Work independently, offering services on a freelance basis for events, photo shoots, or private clients.

Product Sales Representative: Represent and sell beauty products for manufacturers or distributors to salons, spas, and retail outlets.

Specialty Services Provider: Offer specialized services such as eyelash extensions, brow shaping, scalp treatments, or skincare consultations.

These career paths offer opportunities for cosmetologists to grow professionally, develop their skills, and potentially increase their earning potential in the vibrant beauty industry of New York State.

Request Info Now Enrolling 877-317-7170

Our students are taught how to increase their income potential with up-selling techniques that can really work, and how to acquire and retain a steady book of loyal clients.

Start now and check out the possibilities for your future when you become a part of Continental’s next generation of beauty professionals!

Get Your Future Started!

Graduate Spotlight

Why do Continental graduates love us?
Hear it directly from them!

I have always enjoyed helping people and I went back to school to invest in myself and a career that I love. The instructors at Continental are knowledgeable, kind, thoughtful, and have put their all into preparing their students for the future. The best part of my job is getting to help people feel confident, relaxed and beautiful!

Lindsey N - 2024 CONTINENTAL GRADUATE

I always knew I was a skincare enthusiast. My instructors went out of their way to help me learn techniques and gain complete confidence. Continental School of Beauty has encouraged me in the talents I work very hard practicing. My favorite part of my field is helping people feel relaxed and beautiful.

Crystal G - 2024 CONTINENTAL GRADUATE

I’ve always been interested in the beauty industry and I’m very glad I chose to enroll at Continental School of Beauty. My instructors are great. They are always open to answer any questions I have, always with a positive attitude and willing to help me with my studying and/or performing services.

Shakya T - 2023 CONTINENTAL GRADUATE

The instructors were all amazing in their own way. Some instructors were more in depth with teaching theory while others did demos on different hair styles, but overall each teacher taught me something new. Each person helped me become a better hairstylist.

Ashley R - 2023 CONTINENTAL GRADUATE

Get To Know More Of Our Grads