A technical college in Louisiana is the first institution in the state to offer an associate's degree in cosmetology.

Students are required by the state to meet 1,500 hours of classroom and practical training in cosmetology before beginning a career in this field. In addition, they must earn an additional 350 credit hours in general studies courses, including English, math and psychology. Classes that focus on management, personal development and people skills are designed to help prepare individuals for employment opportunities in high-end salons.

The college, which has two locations in the Pelican State, offers career services support to students and helps them find jobs after graduation.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the number of career opportunities for barbers, cosmetologists and other personal appearance professionals is expected to grow by 20 percent over the next eight years, which is much faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S. According to the bureau, the increased demand for hair coloring and other beauty treatments is expected to continue, which will create more jobs for qualified workers in this field.

While most of the advanced training in this field requires practical experience, working professionals who are interested in starting a new career may earn a cosmetology degree online.