Cosmetology
1,000-hour California cosmetology license program in West LA - hair, skin & nails; day or evening, kit included, payment plans available
11961 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
Rolling enrollment throughout the year with day and evening start dates; contact the college for current cohort dates.
No experience required
Program Philosophy
Elite Cosmetology College takes a hands-on approach built on the belief that real practice creates confident professionals. Students get 1,000 hours of comprehensive training across hair, skin and nails. With expert instructors, flexible day and evening schedules, an included kit, and career support, the program prepares beginners to pass the state board exam and enter the salon floor ready to work.
Started in 2026
Visit program website
Beginners pursuing a full California cosmetology license (hair, skin, nails)
Day track: Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm (~30 hrs/week, ~34 weeks). Evening track: Mon-Thu 4:00-9:00pm (~20 hrs/week, ~50 weeks). Total 1,000 hours required for licensure.
1,000 hours of training, California cosmetology license eligibility, full kit, job placement support
Cost & Outcomes
Total cost is $16,900, with the full student kit and books included. Students typically pay through Elite’s in-house payment plan (no interest for the first six months, then 5% APR), Credee installment financing, EDD/CalJobs/WIOA workforce grant funding if they qualify, or pay in full.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
State-licensed 1,000-hour program covering hair, skin and nails at a BPPE-approved college
Flexible day (Mon-Fri) and evening (Mon-Thu) schedules
Full student kit and books included in tuition
In-house payment plan plus Credee and EDD/WIOA workforce funding for those who qualify
Career support: counseling, resume prep, interview coaching, and salon connections
Day in the Life
- Instructor-led theory and technical instruction
- Daily hands-on practice in hair, skin and nail services
- Supervised practice on the training-floor/clinic
- State-board exam preparation and mock exams
- All required tools and books provided in the student kit
Founded by Mahnaz Bahaelou, Grand Master PMU artist with 20+ yrs experience who has trained thousands worldwide; master artists have 5+ yrs each; esthetics led by Shunashuy Jimenez (10+ yrs).
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Cosmetologist licensing exam (written and practical).
Highs & Lows
Completing the full 1,000 required hours while balancing work or family, and mastering the breadth of hair, skin and nail services.
Hands-on salon-floor experience, supportive instructors and mentorship, and finishing licensed and salon-ready across multiple service areas.
Employment Support
Career counseling and career-launch guidance
Professional resume preparation
Interview coaching
Connections to salons throughout the Los Angeles area
Use of Elite's facilities to serve clients while building a book of business
Hear From the Program
How It Works
Register online (elitecosmetologycollege.com/choose-course) or call 310-446-7878
Schedule a campus tour or consultation
Choose the day or evening track and complete the enrollment agreement
Set up an in-house payment plan or apply for Credee or EDD/WIOA grant funding if eligible
Receive your student kit and begin hands-on classes
Complete the 1,000 required hours and sit the California state board exam
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.About 1,000 hours - roughly 34 weeks (~8-9 months) full-time at 30 hrs/week, or ~50 weeks on the evening schedule.
Yes, the evening schedule (Mon-Thu 4 pm - 9 pm) is designed for students with daytime commitments.
Yes, tuition includes the full student kit and books.
Work as a cosmetologist, hairstylist, colorist, and also perform esthetics and nail services.