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Tennessee Cosmetology Course Syllabus

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Cosmetology Course Syllabus

MILLINGTON CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

8050 West Street

Millington, TN 38053

901-873-8100 ext 245

Ginger Whitaker

Prerequisites: Principles of Cosmetology: Successfully passed to the tenth grade

Design Principles of Cosmetology: Passed Principles of Cosmetology

Chemistry of Cosmetology: Passed Design Principles of Cosmetology

Credits:

Principles of cosmetology: 1 credit

Design Principles of Cosmetology: 2 credits

Chemistry of Cosmetology: 2 credits

Standards: Standards one through eight developed by the Tennessee Department of Education will be implemented for this course, along with lifelong standard-productivity.

Competencies Profile Sheet: The competency profile for this course will be used to accompany the standards, units and lesson plans throughout the school year.

Please sign in the spaces below acknowledging receipt of this syllabus along with a copy of your child’s competency profile. Remove and return this form to me. Thanks.

Student Name:

Parent/Guardian Name:

Date:

Philosophy

The cosmetology curriculum seeks to produce students and workers who will be technologically literate and productive. The student’s talents, interest, and abilities are the major concern in designing and implementing a competency-based course of study. Community resources, technological advancements, and simulation of the work place will be utilized to prepare students for careers in cosmetology and related fields.

It is hoped that an understanding of the fundamentals of cosmetology will instill the desire to continue learning as well as the desire for improvement in the quality of life through meaningful work.

Rationale

Cosmetology is the science of beautifying or improving the complexion, skin, hair and nails. The cosmetologist’s task of improving patrons’ appearance is ever growing.

This multifaceted course provides challenging occupations by which to become gainfully employed. Each aspect is dynamic and exciting to pursue. The State Board of Cosmetology establishes a minimum number of fifteen hundred hours of training and candidates must pass the State Board of Cosmetology Examination to become licensed.

The cosmetology skills inspire and motivate the expression of creativity through diligent study and ardent practice. Instruction is designed to train and prepare students to qualify for license upon completion of the course requirements.

Professional cosmetologists, manicurists, and esthetician, who possess artistic ability and can perform the manipulative skills efficiently, will find a broad horizon in the lucrative beauty trade.

Purpose of the Program

In all its philosophies, concepts and functions, the program reflects the worth of the individual and of our industry, and a dedication to a quality program of instruction that recognizes the importance of the development of skills and constructive habits and ATTITUDES. We reinforce this basic philosophy through the following criteria:

1. To educate the individual to meet the demands of our ever-changing industry.

2. To develop industry and people skills.

3. To teach knowledge and ethics consistent with responsible social and professional behavior.

4. To assist our graduate in becoming social competent members of their communities to a degree that each can appreciate and handle the many human relation problems that will be encountered.

Class Goals

1. Provide a learning environment, in which students strengthen inner emotional controls, increase self-confidence and self-discipline, and establish a sense of dignity and self-worth.

2. Present learning activities, which teach students to listen, observe, solve problems and develop manipulative skills.

3. Provide diverse instructional strategies, which meet student’s needs and learning styles.

4. Provide an opportunity to learn the basic skills of the trade together with the related scientific and technical knowledge for advancement necessary in the cosmetology field.

5. Provide productive experiences as nearly like those “on-the-job” as possible.

6. Provide safety consciousness in the work environment.

7. Promote interpersonal relationships, which are directed toward developing the ability to work cooperatively.

8. Develop an understanding of the functions of the occupation and the relationship with other occupations.

9. Provide an opportunity for students to develop leadership abilities.

10. Create a learning environment in which students will develop an appreciation for quality craftsmanship.

11. Provide students with salable skills in the cosmetology field.

12. Develop a positive work ethic and the self-discipline required for work and advancement in the industry.

Administration of Curriculum and Course Description

The cosmetology course is a well-rounded program covering all phases of cosmetology. The approach to training is based on sound educational methods and teaching fundamentals. This type of program stresses a firm theoretical knowledge of cosmetology for development of a true professional.

The first hours of the course include lectures, demonstrations, special projects, role playing, interpretation of reading material, writing, and practice in molding pincurl patterns, roller placement, permanent waving, hair shaping, hair coloring, and the related theories. The LAW forbids students from working on paying clienteles until they have acquired two hundred hours of instruction.

After the first year of training students are introduced to public clientele where they practice the knowledge gained during the previous training. It is only through applied knowledge that the necessary experience and comprehension of cosmetology can develop. For the remainder of the course students are scheduled for theory classes, as well as, practical classes. Subjects such as the hairdresser-customer relationship, salesmanship, professional attitudes, the latest haircuts, advanced comb-out techniques, pressing and Marcel curling, blow styling, beauty salon business, permanent waving and nail care are covered in these classes. As students progress through the training, becoming proficient in hairdressing procedures, the clinic experiences become more salon oriented.

Visual poise / safety and sanitation

Visual poise is stressed at all time. It is essential that safety and sanitation be an intricate part of the training for the patron’s protection, as well as, the student. Participation in competition, fashion programs and activities sponsored by our school is encouraged. Students become familiar with professional ethics and dispensary skills needed for preparation of professional products and the techniques of scheduling appointments and handling receptionist duties.

The course is fifteen hundred hours long plus successful completion of the curriculum. The curriculum has three phases:

General

Bacteriology and Decontamination

Anatomy and physiology

Shop ethics, personality, and salesmanship

State law

Chemical

Permanent waving

Hair relaxing

Hair coloring, bleaching, and toning

Sculptured nails

Hair Structure and Chemistry

Physical

Shampooing, conditioning, and rinses

Hair and scalp care

Hair shaping

Hairdressing and styling (wet styling, blow styling, pressing and curling)

Facials, arching, lash and brow tinting

Artificial hair

Grading Policy

93....100=A

85......92=B

75....84=C

70....74=D

69........0=F

The student is assessed in four categories for Principles of Cosmetology:

Test........................................ 40%

Quizzes................................. 10%

Homework................................10%

Class participation/projects... 40%

The student is assessed in four categories for Chemistry and Design Principles of Cosmetology:

Test........................................ 30%

Project Sheet...........................40%

Homework................................10%

Job Sheet…………………… 20%

Types of assessment: rubric, written and oral responses, completed tasks, and projects

Criteria involved in assessing the student’s work is:

a. Ability to follow and carry out instructions.

b. Demonstrating the proper use of implements and equipment in performing the task.

c. Following the proper steps and techniques in completing a performance lesson.

d. Demonstrating patience in carrying out the patron’s needs.

e. Demonstrating QUALITY service.

f. Following and completing the required lessons and projects in a timely manner.

Conduct

Excellent.............................E

Satisfactory.........................S

Needs Improvement...........N

Unsatisfactory....................U

Negative attitudes must be left at the door when entering the class since we are training to become professionals. Each student must respect each other, as well as, the instructor. There is no excuse for taking tools or supplies from another student and this behavior will no be accepted.

Attendance Policy

Attendance and participation in class are required. Students are responsible for all content covered during class regardless of whether or not an absence is excused. An excessive number of absences may adversely affect a student’s performance in the course. *See SCS policy.

If you are tardy, you must sign the tardy book stating the time of arrival and the date. Upon receiving the third tardy you will receive a referral. See Student Handbook on attendance/tardy.

Class rules

1. Be on time for class every day.

2. Bring book, kit, paper, and pencil/pin to class every day.

3. Wear uniform and dress appropriately every day.

4. Do not eat or drink in class.

5. Participate in all classroom activities.

6. Keep a positive attitude and always do your best.

7. Use appropriate language every day.

8. Always are respectful.

9. Represent the class in a professional manner.

10. Be a positive role model to others.

Supplies

Kit books pencils/pens

paper lab coat manikin

marcels nail supplies

NOTE: No student may enter or leave this class without his/her agenda book. All personal services must be pre-approved.

Cosmetology Curriculum

Milady Standard Cosmetology Textbook

Part I

Orientation

Class Rules

Safety

SkillsUSA

Cosmetology State Law and Rules

Chapter 1, pp. 6-20-Cosmetology: The History and Opportunities

Early history

The twentieth century

Career Opportunities

Chapter 2, pp. 24-43-Life Skills

Psychology of Success

Motivation & Self Management

Goal Setting

Time Management

Study Skills

Ethics

Personality Development & Attitude

Human Relations

Chapter 3, pp. 48-65- Your Professional Image

Beauty and Wellness

Healthy Mind and Body

Your physical Presentation

Chapter 4, pp. 69-93-Communicating for Success

Communication Basics

The client consultation

Special Issues in communication

Part II

Cosmetology Sciences

Chapter 5, pp. 95-128-Infection Control: Principles & Practice

Bacteria

Viruses

Pathogenic Bacteria

Parasites

Immunity

Principles of Prevention

Universal precautions

Safety and State Law

Chapter 6, pp. 132-168-Anatomy and Physiology

Cells

Tissues

Organs

Body Systems

Chapter 7, pp. 170-200

Chemistry

Electricity

Electro Therapy

Light Therapy

PART III

Hair Care

Chapter 8, pp. 201-226-Properties of the Scalp and Hair

The Hair

Hair Growth

Hair Analysis

Scalp Care

Hair Loss

Disorders and diseases of the hair and scalp

Chapter 9, pp. 229-253, Principles of Hair Design

Philosophy of Design

Elements of Hair Design

Principles of Hair design

Creating Harmony between the hairstyle and facial structure

Designing for men

Shampooing, Rinsing, & Conditioning

Types of Shampoos and conditioners

Brushing the hair

Scalp Massage

Procedures for Shampooing, rinsing and conditioning

General Hair and Scalp Treatments

Chapter 11, pp. 283-345-Haircutting

Basics of Haircutting

Client Consultation

Tools, Body Position, and Safety

Other cutting techniques

Clippers and Edgers

Chapter 12, pp. 350-424- Hairstyling

Client Consultation

Hairstyling Basics

Finger Waving

Pin Curls

Roller Curls

Comb-out Techniques

Hair Wrapping

Blow-dry styling

Styling Long Hair

Thermal Hairstyling

Thermal Hair Straightening

Safety

Chapter 13, pp. 426-457, Braiding and Braid Extensions

Client Consultation

Understanding the Basics

Braiding the Hair

Chapter 14, pp. 460-485-Wigs & Hair enhancements

The Consultation

Wigs

Hairpieces

Hair Extensions

Chapter 15, pp. 487-545-Chemical Texture Services

Hair Structure

Client Consultation

Permanent Waving

Permanent Waving Procedures

Chemical Hair Relaxers

Relaxer Procedures

Soft Curl Permanent wave

Chapter 16, pp. 547-605-Haircoloring

Why People Color their Hair

Color Theory

Hair Facts

The Level System

Types of Haircolor

Consultation

Haircolor application procedures

Lightening Techniques

Special Effects

Special Problems in Haircolor/Corrective coloring

Salon Menu of Services

Safety

PART IV

Skin Care

Chapter 17, pp 607-632-Histology of the Skin

Anatomy of the skin

Disorders of the skin

Maintaining the Health of the Skin

Chapter 18, pp. 634-652-Hair Removal

Client Consultation

Permanent Hair Removal

Temporary Methods of Hair Removal

Chapter 19, pp. 655-695-Facials

Basic Classification & Chemistry of Skin Care products

Client Consultation

Facial Massage

Electro therapy & Light therapy

Facial Treatments

Aromatherapy

Face Value

Chapter 20, pp. 697-737-Facial Makeup

Cosmetics for Makeup

Makeup color theory

Client Consultation

Corrective Makeup

Artificial Eyelashes

Safety Precautions

PART V

Nail Care

Chapter 21, pp. 739-759-Nail Structure and Growth

The Nail

Nail Growth

Nail Fungus

Diseases of the nail

Chapter 22, pp. 760-795-Manicuring and Pedicuring

Nail care tools

The manicure table

Client Consultation

The Plain Manicure

Arm & Hand Massage

Other Type of Manicures

Pedicures

Safety Rules

A Valuable Service

Chapter 23, pp. 797-827-Advanced Nail Techniques

Pre and post service procedures

Nail tips

Nail wraps

Acrylic Nails

Gels

Dipped Nails

Safety Precautions

Nail Art

PART VI

The Business of Cosmetology

Chapter 24, pp. 829-856-The Salon Business

What You Should Know about Opening a Salon

Operating a Successful Salon

Selling in the Salon

State Law

Chapter 25, pp. 856-889-Seeking Employment

Preparing for Licensure

Preparing for Employment

On your way the Right way

Chapter 26, pp. 891-910-On the Job

Moving from School to work

Out in the real world

Discover the selling--You

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Date

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What the Tennessee Cosmetology Course Syllabus Is

A Tennessee Cosmetology Course Syllabus is a formal document that organizes a training program for cosmetology students, defining curriculum objectives, learning outcomes, classroom and practical competencies, assessment methods, and required materials. It frames course scope, weekly topics, contact hours, grading standards, attendance expectations, safety and sanitation protocols, and instructor contact details. Institutions use the syllabus to ensure alignment with institutional policies and state regulatory expectations, to inform students of requirements, and to support program review or licensing discussions with the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners when board oversight or program approval is applicable.

Why a Clear Syllabus Matters for Programs and Students

A structured syllabus clarifies learning objectives, ensures consistent instruction, and documents how the program meets educational and regulatory expectations. It reduces disputes, helps students track progress, and provides an auditable curriculum record for accreditation or board review.

Why a Clear Syllabus Matters for Programs and Students

Who Prepares and Relies on the Syllabus

Typical users include program directors, instructors, licensing coordinators, and regulatory reviewers who manage curriculum compliance and student communication.

  • Program Directors and Instructors — draft course content, design assessments, and communicate expectations to students.
  • School Administrators and Licensing Coordinators — maintain records, submit program materials for board review, and manage enrollment compliance.
  • Students and Prospective Students — review course requirements, schedules, grading policies, and required supplies.

A clear syllabus aligns stakeholder expectations and creates an auditable record for internal quality assurance and any external oversight.

Essential Elements to Include in a Professional Syllabus

A complete syllabus organizes content, assessments, policies, and resources so instructors and students share the same roadmap for the course.

Course Goals

Concise measurable learning outcomes that describe the competencies graduates should demonstrate, including technical skills, safety practices, and client service abilities.

Curriculum Outline

A week-by-week or module-based breakdown listing topics, practical exercises, supervised clinical hours, and estimated time allocations for each subject area.

Schedule & Hours

Session dates, daily hours, total contact hours, and the method used to calculate practical versus classroom time, noting any clinic rotations.

Assessment Methods

Forms of evaluation such as practical exams, written tests, competency checklists, rubrics, and minimum passing standards for each assessment type.

Materials & Supplies

Required textbooks, tool kits, uniform or dress code, sanitation supplies, and any fees students must pay to participate in practicals.

Policies & Attendance

Attendance expectations, lateness policy, make-up work procedures, academic integrity rules, grievance processes, and safety/sanitation rules.

Required Information and Key Fields

Course Title: Full course name
Instructor: Name and lic. no.
Effective Date: MM/DD/YYYY
Contact Hours: Total hours
Assessment Criteria: Pass/fail rules
Revision Number: Version or date

Step-by-Step: Prepare and Finalize the Syllabus

Follow these sequential steps to produce a compliant, student-ready syllabus and maintain a record for institutional and regulatory needs.

  • 01
    Draft Content: Assemble objectives, modules, and assessments.
  • 02
    Verify Compliance: Confirm alignment with institutional and board standards.
  • 03
    Collect Approvals: Obtain signatures from program leadership.
  • 04
    Distribute to Students: Issue electronically and retain a copy.

Where to Submit or File the Syllabus

Identify recipients and storage locations so the syllabus is properly recorded and accessible for students and regulators.

  • Institution Records: Program office and registrar.
  • Student Distribution: Email, LMS upload, printed copy.
  • State Board: Submit if board approval required.
  • Accreditor: Provide on request for accreditation reviews.

Digital Submission and eSignature Considerations

Electronic distribution and signatures are accepted for most administrative uses; verify board rules for official program filings.

  • File Formats: PDF, DOCX supported
  • Audit Trail: Timestamps and IP
  • Integrations: LMS and cloud storage

Typical Timelines and Processing Expectations

Plan ahead for internal review cycles, student notification, and any external approvals; expected timelines vary by institution and regulator.

Program Review Deadlines:

Submit before semester start

Student Notification:

Provide at orientation

Board Submission:

Allow several weeks if required

Revision Cycle:

Annual or as-needed updates

Record Availability:

Keep accessible for audits

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Omitting precise contact hour breakdowns, which can create compliance gaps during program audits or licensing reviews and lead to questions from regulators.
  • Using vague assessment criteria such as 'satisfactory' without numeric thresholds or rubrics, causing inconsistent grading and student disputes.
  • Neglecting to record revisions and version dates, which complicates historical reviews and accreditation evidence requests.
  • Distributing different syllabus versions to students without central tracking, increasing the risk of conflicting expectations and complaints.

Risks and Consequences of an Inaccurate Syllabus

License Denial: Board may withhold approval
Student Complaints: Increased grievances and appeals
Loss of Credit: Students may lose eligible hours
Audit Findings: Corrective actions required
Financial Penalties: Fines possible in some cases
Reputational Risk: Enrollment impact

Supporting Documents to Include with the Syllabus

Attach essential supporting records so reviewers and students can verify compliance and expectations without separate requests.

Program Outline

A detailed curriculum map showing modules, learning objectives, and contact hours for each module so reviewers can verify that the course meets educational standards.

Instructor Credentials

Copies of instructor licenses, certifications, and resumes that demonstrate appropriate qualifications and any continuing education required to teach specific clinical skills.

Student Handbook

A handbook detailing conduct, attendance, grading, safety protocols, and complaint procedures so student-facing policies align with the syllabus statements.

Assessment Rubrics

Competency checklists and scoring rubrics for practical exams to ensure transparent, repeatable, and auditable grading practices.

Setting Up an Electronic Workflow for the Syllabus

Configure form fields and reviewer roles so digital distribution and signature capture are consistent and auditable.

Field Configuration
Signature Field Required — signer name, date, and role
Date Field MM/DD/YYYY format enforced
Conditional Fields Show instructor credentials when 'Instructor' selected
Reviewer Role Program admin with approval permission

Sample Use Cases from Training Programs

Two common scenarios illustrate practical syllabus usage across program types.

Vocational School Example

A community vocational program streamlines orientation and accreditation reviews using a versioned syllabus.

  • The syllabus included measurable rubrics and contact hour logs.
  • As a result, the school reduced reviewer questions and maintained consistent cohort outcomes by retaining versioned syllabi and assessment records.

Salon-Based Training

A salon training program documents on-site clinic hours and mentor sign-offs to qualify students for state exams.

  • Mentor sign-offs track practical competency hour credit.
  • That documentation provided clear proof of supervised hours and competency during candidate eligibility checks for licensing.

Who Signs and Approves the Syllabus

Program Director

The Program Director typically signs to attest that the syllabus reflects the curriculum delivered, confirms instructor qualifications, and accepts responsibility for ongoing recordkeeping and compliance with institutional policies and applicable state requirements.

State Board Administrator

A State Board or licensing official may sign or mark acceptance when board review is required; the administrator's endorsement indicates the program meets state-prescribed topics or contact hour minimums where applicable.

eSignature Vendor Comparison for Syllabus Signing and Distribution

Basic vendor price and feature comparisons for e-signature platforms commonly used to distribute and sign course syllabi. Verify plan details with each vendor before purchasing.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial Varies Varies Varies Varies
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Frequently Asked Questions and Practical Troubleshooting

Answers to common questions about completing, signing, and storing the Tennessee Cosmetology Course Syllabus.


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