This course covers the history of hairdressing, trade terminology, required skills and equipment, the role of the Cosmetology Industry Association of British Columbia, and Hairdressing Code of Ethics. Students will practice personality development, motivation and goal setting; professional image projection; safety procedures and first-aid.

This course focuses on personal grooming and public hygiene, bacteriology and related diseases/disorders, sanitation and sterilization.

Following theoretical study and analysis, students will practice the provision of client services including preparation, analysis of hair and scalp condition, appropriate product selection, shampooing, and appropriate follow-up treatments in a salon setting. Two days are dedicated to learning and practicing massage techniques.

Histology (the study of skin), the physiology of hair, hair structure, hair chemistry, and the structure of skin are covered in a classroom setting.

Students are introduced to the concepts of client lifestyle analysis, head form analysis, and hair growth analysis. Students will develop terminology associated with styling and the tools used for various techniques. Techniques include finger waving, pin curling, skip waving, moulding, roller placement, thermal styling, braiding, combing out and finishing techniques. Techniques and applications for both short and long hair styling are examined.

Principles of professional communication, client consultation, and maintaining client satisfaction are introduced with an emphasis on verbal and non-verbal communication skills, critical thinking, conflict management and team building.

An extensive hands-on component of the program where the analysis of client lifestyle, physical characteristics, head form, and hair growth patterns are applied to the practice of shaping and cutting in a salon setting. Students will learn and practice the following hair-cutting techniques on live subjects and mannequins: sectioning and parting, body and hand positioning, tension control, cutting angles, scissor cuts, razor cuts, use of tapering shears, low and high elevation haircuts, wet to dry haircuts, form and balance.

Systems of permanent waving; client preparation; safety precautions and procedures; liability release forms; hair and scalp analysis; hair relaxing; strand tests; product knowledge; physical preparation methods; chemical application and removal; and follow-up treatments are learned and practiced in this unit.

Classifications of hair colours and lighteners, client preparation, liability release, safety precautions and procedures, hair and scalp analysis, strand tests, foiling, tint application, de-colourizing, low-lighting & highlighting, product knowledge, application and removal of chemicals, and follow-up treatments are learned and practiced.

An introduction to the practicalities of small business management is undertaken. The principles of needs analysis, product knowledge, sales techniques, client identity, record keeping, book keeping, appointment & work scheduling, time management, reception services, salon layout & design, marketing, costs, revenues, and profits are undertaken.

An introduction to the typology, measurement, fitting, cleaning, conditioning, cutting, colouring and styling of wigs, hair pieces and extensions.

Students are assisted in securing weekly practicum positions in salons in communities of their choice. Under the supervision and discretion of the salon owner/operator, students will engage in activities in accordance with their demonstrated skill, knowledge and ability. Practicum placement provides valuable opportunities to integrate study with work.