If you love working with hair, makeup, and skincare, then becoming a cosmetologist could be one of the best decisions you ever make! A cosmetology license is the most all-encompassing beauty license since it allows you to work in so many different areas.
In this post, we’ll help you in your search for the “best cosmetology schools near me.” You’ll also find a list of the top beauty schools in the US.
Best Cosmetology Schools Near Me: Table of Contents
- How to Become a Cosmetologist: Get Your License
- Do You Have What it Takes to Become a Cosmetologist?
- 3 Ways to Find the Best Cosmetology School Near You
- What to Expect in Cosmetology Classes
- Cosmetology Employment Outlook & Average Salary
- FAQs
What are the requirements to get into cosmetology school?
How long does cosmetology school take?
Can I go to an online cosmetology school?
How much does it cost to go to cosmetology school? - Careers Similar to Cosmetology
How to Find the Best Cosmetology Schools Near Me
Don’t waste your time searching for “the best cosmetology schools near me,” only to find yourself with useless search engine results. A lot of really bad ads will show up! Instead, do one or all of these three options:
- Sign up for Campus Explorer’s insider tips
- Check out our list of the Best Cosmetology Schools in the US
- Consult our List of Cosmetology Schools by State Directory
1. Campus Explorer
The first way to find a beauty academy near you is to sign up for Campus Explorer. Because the information is based on your individual needs, this is the easiest way to get insider tips on the best cosmetology schools and their tuitions.
The best part? It’s delivered directly to your email inbox, so you can say goodbye to spending hours looking all over the internet.
In order to get started, simply enter your info in the toolbar below. And of course, there isn’t a “catch” to this. You can unsubscribe at any time, and it’s totally free!
We believe in you! Take that first step and sign up below.
#2. Check Out Our List of the 13 Top Cosmetology Schools in the US
Another way to learn about the best cosmetology schools near you is to look at The 13 Best Cosmetology Schools in the US.
In that article, you’ll find a detailed review of some of the top-rated cosmetology schools in the nation, including the Academy of Cosmetology and the Aveda Institute.
#3. Look at Our Cosmetology State Directory
The last, but totally awesome, option, is to look at our Cosmetology State Directory, which has a list of links to the best cosmetology programs in each state. This will help you find your state-specific cosmetology requirements, since each state has different requirements.
In order to find your home state cosmetology license requirements, check out our List of Cosmetology Schools by State. Alternatively, you can click on your state’s link below.
Alabama |Â Alaska |Â Arizona |Â Arkansas |Â California |Â Colorado |Â Connecticut |Â Delaware |Â District of Columbia |Â Florida |Â Georgia |Â Hawaii |Â Idaho |Â Illinois |Â Indiana |Â Iowa |Â Kansas |Â Kentucky |Â Louisiana |Â Maine |Â Maryland |Â Massachusetts |Â Michigan |Â Minnesota |Â Mississippi |Â Missouri |Â Montana |Â Nebraska |Â Nevada |Â New Hampshire |Â New Jersey |Â New Mexico |Â New York |Â North Carolina |Â North Dakota |Â Ohio |Â Oklahoma |Â Oregon |Â Pennsylvania |Â Rhode Island |Â South Carolina |Â South Dakota |Â Tennessee |Â Texas |Â Utah |Â Vermont |Â Virginia |Â Washington |Â West Virginia |Â Wisconsin |Â Wyoming
Do You Have What it Takes to Be a Cosmetologist?
If you have a natural passion for beautifying and pampering the hair, skin, and nails, then you possess the most important ingredient for a successful cosmetology career. After all, cosmetology school takes a lot of hard work. You might as well be excited about your work!
Here are the essential skills of a good cosmetologist:
- Endurance: Ability to be on your feet for long hours
- Communication Skills: Good communication skills; able to communicate effectively with people from all different types of backgrounds
- Attention to Detail:Â No matter what you’re doing – hair, skin, or nails – you need to be paying close attention at all times and performing all procedures in a precise manner
How to Become a Cosmetologist
Usually, most cosmetology school admissions have the same requirements from state to state. In order to become a cosmetologist, you must complete five main steps.
1. Learn About Being a Cosmetologist
The first step is to learn as much as you can about being a cosmetologist. Cosmetology school takes a lot of work, so it’s important that you take the time to do the preliminary research. Make sure you’re familiar with the roles and duties of a cosmetologist, what to expect in cosmetology school, and what kinds of career opportunities will be available to you.
The “FAQ” section at the bottom of this post is also here to help!
2. Enroll in Cosmetology School
Then, you’ll need to search for the best cosmetology colleges near you and start reaching out to admissions. Here’s a checklist of questions to ask the cosmetology school representatives:
- Are you an accredited cosmetology school? If not, run for the hills! It’s important to attend an accredited beauty institution in order to get your license and practice cosmetology legally. Make sure you are attending a school that prepares you for licensure as part of their curriculum.
- Do you offer any scholarships or grants? If financing your education is a concern,
you might want to contact their Financial Aid office directly.
- What are your course scheduling choices? Many beauty schools offer both part- and full-time programs. They also may offer cosmetology night classes.
- How long is your program? It’s wise to know the amount of time you’ll be studying and when you can plan to graduate.
- Do you offer job placement assistance? The best cosmetology schools near you should have some type of assistance for their students. This could include resume-building classes or a job placement program for students about to graduate.
3. Complete a Cosmetology Program Near You
Once you’ve been admitted to a cosmetology program near you, the fun can begin! You’ll learn from licensed instructors through a combination of the classroom (theory) and hands-on (practical) experience.
4. Pass the Cosmetology State Board Exam
The best cosmetology schools will prepare you to pass it as part of their curriculum. Typically, the exam consists of two parts: a theory test and a practical test. Once you pass the exam, you’ll pay a state-specific fee for your cosmetology license. You can then start working as a cosmetologist!
Don’t let the word “exam” scare you! We’re here to help. The Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook is a great starting tool, but we also encourage you to buy a quality cosmetology state board practice test and study guide.
5. Keep Your License Renewed
You’ll need to get your license renewed periodically. In many states, this is necessary every two years, but you should check your state-specific requirements to find how often you need to renew it in your home state. Some states also require continuing education during the renewal periods.
What Will I Really Learn in Cosmetology School?
All cosmetology school curriculums are slightly different. While most of the core curriculum classes are the same, they do vary from school to school. Therefore, it’s important to examine all of your options before deciding on which beauty school is best for you.
In general, you can expect these types of classes in cosmetology school:
- Hair Coloring
- Highly Specialized Hair Cutting
- Shampooing and Conditioning
- Communication, Business Ethics, and Management Skills
- Chemical Texture Techniques
- How to Give Manicures and Pedicures
- Different Techniques for Giving Facials
- Best Sanitation and Safety Practices
In addition to these core classes, some cosmetology schools offer even more classes. For example, these classes can include makeup application, electrology and/or massage therapy.
Video: What You Need to Know About Cosmetology School
In order to see a glimpse of what it’s like to be in cosmetology school, check out this video titled “What You Need to Know About Cosmetology School” by Frida Maczka. She attended the Aveda Institute of Cosmetology in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Even though this is just one school, it’s a good picture for anyone who’s searching for “the best cosmetology schools near me,” no matter where you live.
Keep in mind, however, that this is just one cosmetologist’s experience. The goal is to get you to really start imagining yourself attending a beauty school.
Cosmetology Job & Salary Outlook
Unlike some careers that are becoming less popular over time, the demand for cosmetologists is growing rapidly. This is because more and more people are realizing how important it is to look beautiful… because of how great it makes them feel on the inside, too.
As a nation, we’re embracing the idea of “self-care” and more people understand the importance of some pampering. Or how life-changing a stunning new haircut can be!
Cosmetology Employment Outlook
In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs for barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists will grow by 13% between 2016 and 2026. That means that in only ten years, there will be about 87,600 new cosmetologists waiting for graduates like you!
Average Cosmetologist Salary:
How much do cosmetologists make?
As of May 2017, the average hourly wage for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists was $14.66 per hour. In other words, that’s $30,490 per year. In contrast, specialists earning in the top 10% earned $24.36 per hour.
It’s important to realize that there are multiple factors that will affect your pay rate. It largely depends on which industry you choose, and also where you live. Another determining factor is your level of education and the reputation of your school.
#1. Industry
According to the US Bureau Department of Labor Statistics, the top paying industries for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists are:
- Medical and Surgical Hospitals
- Performing Arts Companies
- “Other” Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Management of Companies & Enterprises
- Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Hospitals
#2. Location
Another factor that will impact your level of pay is the state in which you live. The top paying states for cosmetologists are California, Florida, New York, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
#3. Your Education
It is absolutely necessary that you attend an accredited cosmetology school! Always make sure a school has accreditation from the state’s board of cosmetology before enrolling.
Also, as the saying goes, “reputation is everything.” If your school has a reputation for churning out exceptional new cosmetologists, it may be easier for you to find a high paying job.
This is a good reason to check a school’s job placement rate for graduates.
Many schools offer job assistance programs for graduates. This is a huge bonus, so try to find a cosmetology school that works to find its graduates jobs.
Cosmetology Schools Near Me: Answers to Your FAQs
You asked, and so we have answered! Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about cosmetology programs.
What are the requirements to get into cosmetology school?
Cosmetology admissions requirements are different in each state and specific school. However, the typical age requirement is 17 or 18. Another common requirement is a high school diploma or GED.
Again, we want to emphasize that these are just the averages and that it’s different in every state. There are exceptions to every rule. For example, some states allow students if they have completed a minimum of the 8th grade. And others will permit students at age 16.
Overall, it’s important to look at your home state’s requirements.
Read More: How to Get a Cosmetology License
How long does cosmetology school take?
The length of cosmetology school depends on a few things:
- Whether you attend full- or part-time
- The amount of material covered in an individual cosmetology school’s program
Most states require from 250 to 2,000 training hours at an accredited cosmetology school. But the exact number of hours depends on your state’s licensing requirements. The average length of time to complete a cosmetology program is one year to 14 months.
Read More: How Long is Cosmetology School?
Can I go to an online cosmetology school?
At this point in time, there are no 100% online cosmetology schools. That is because there are no state cosmetology boards that currently approve of fully online cosmetology programs for licensure.
However, there are some schools in certain states that allow you to take a portion of your theory classes online. In order to find out if you can take some of your cosmetology classes online, you’ll need to check your home state’s requirements.
Read More: The Future of Online Cosmetology School
How much does it cost to go to cosmetology school?
When you think of how much it costs to become a cosmetologist, the first thought that probably pops into your mind is tuition. And rightfully so! That is by far the largest expense to consider. Tuition can range from $5,000 to $25,000 and beyond, depending on where you go.
Additionally, here are some additional costs to consider:
- Cosmetology School Kit (Supplies)
- Cost of Cosmetology State Board Exam
- License Application Fee
- Study Guides and Practice Tests
Fortunately, federal financial aid is available at certain beauty schools. To enumerate, a school with accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences, will have Pell cosmetology grants as well as federal financial aid assistance. Stafford Loans are also an option.
Without a doubt, the costs are worth it. Cosmetology is a rewarding career, and the chances are very high that you’ll find a good paying cosmetology job very soon after graduation.
Careers That Are Similar to Cosmetology
In the field of beautification, there is a multitude of specialties that are similar to cosmetology. Many of them are shorter programs with a narrower focus, so you can finish them more quickly.
- Barbering Schools
- Esthetician Schools
- Hair Stylist Schools
- Makeup Schools
- Nail Technician/Manicurist Schools
- Massage Therapy Schools
Best Cosmetology Schools Near Me:
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve had time to learn more about what to expect in cosmetology school, we hope you’re ready to take the next step in the path to becoming a cosmetologist. It’s a fulfilling career that will give you the opportunity to make thousands of people feel better about themselves – how cool is that?
Thanks for stopping by! Before you go, remember to sign up for Campus Explorer for the latest and greatest cosmetology school news.