Cosmetologist jobs are expected to increase at a faster-than-average rate of 14 percent through 2016, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Specialties experiencing especially fast growth are manicurist/pedicurist, skin care specialist (aesthetician), and make-up artist.
Meanwhile, the cosmetology industry is evolving, opening new avenues for graduates of beauty schools. Today's programs go beyond hair, nails, and skin, and often provide instruction in massage and other holistic wellness treatments, as a result of the burgeoning spa industry. In fact, one in four Americans today has been to a spa, and there are more than 32 million active spa-goers. Spa locations have increased at a phenomenal rate of 20 percent since 2000.
Clearly, whether you plan to work in a salon as a hair stylist, nail technician, or aesthetician, or in a spa performing body treatments, reflexology, massage, or other wellness procedure, prospects look good for future cosmetologists.
With the lowest business costs in the country, New Mexico is a great location for nearly any type of business. But why attend one of the state's cosmetology schools? First, New Mexico is part of the Southwest region, which comprises 23 percent and $10.9 billion of the nation's spa industry. Santa Fe, a thriving hub of arts, culture, and spirituality is renowned as a spa destination, and ranked #3 on Conde Nast's 2009 Reader's Choice Awards for Best U.S. Cities to Visit.
1,640 Hair stylists/Barbers; median hourly income of $8.99
Manicurists/pedicurists (number not available); median hourly income of $9.11
Ready for a rewarding career in healthcare? Carrington College can help.