There couldn’t be a better time to become a cosmetologist in Illinois than right now. Not only is cosmetology a fun and exciting field, it is also one that is growing by leaps and bounds. New innovations in specific areas, a plethora of new salons and job openings, and the need for talented professionals means cosmetologists will not be job hunting for very long. Once you’ve worked hard and received your license to practice cosmetology in the state of Illinois, it is necessary to renew that license after taking the required continuing education curriculum.
New Statistics on the Cosmetology Employment Front
In its annual job outlook research, the U.S. Department of Labor found that cosmetologist employment prospects will grow faster than those in many other fields. Currently, there are more than 673,000 cosmetologists who are actively working. Over the next employment projection period, the number of available jobs in this profession is expected to grow by over 70,500. This reflects a 10 percent growth over the jobs already in existence. With a median salary of $27,610, beginning cosmetologists are off to a good start. With approximately three cosmetologists employed for every 1,000 individuals in the state, population growth has increased the need in many areas.
Reasons the Outlook Is Looking Good in Illinois
Part of the reason that cosmetologists are looking at a robust employment environment is that existing practitioners are retiring for different reasons. This means that the existing 673,000-strong job force will open up as members leave. This adds to the 70,500 new positions already expected to be needed. In addition, new salons and spas are dotting the landscape all the time.
Salon Growth
Overall, 86,000 salons are operational nationwide with a revenue of $20 billion. This number is expected to grow to $58 billion in the next five years. This is dependent, at least in part, on the rise in disposable income as well as customers looking for ancillary services in salons and spas such as pedicures, manicures, hair treatments, facials, and massages. Since profits in the industry are rising, new salons are expected to be opening.
What You Need to Do to Renew Your Cosmetology License in Illinois
It is important for hard-working professionals to keep their licenses active. Nowhere is that truer than in cosmetology. In Illinois, the State Board of Cosmetology provides the necessary requirements to graduate and to keep your license active. Licenses are renewed on September 30 of odd-numbered years. The workload includes seven hours of classroom education in addition to another seven hours that can be done online. Being able to do part of the 14-hour continuing education requirement online is a great opportunity for busy cosmetologists.
How to Do Online Continuing Education
In Illinois, you must choose a continuing education regimen approved by the state. Beauty Academy, an approved education school, provides an easy way to do just that. Simply login to our website, and purchase our course. Once that is done, you are expected to read through the material supplied. Upon completion, you can answer the questions similar to those of the Illinois cosmetology exam.
Completion of the Online Coursework
Once you have completed the course and answered the questions correctly, you will be sent a certificate of completion by mail, email, or fax. Since the state board may ask for a copy, it is a good idea to keep it in a safe place.
Support Services
Check out our cosmetology courses today. If you have questions about our services, you can reach out to us at (888)290-9739 or email us. We offer prompt responses to all your questions.