In this guide today, I will be showing a list of top 10 accredited cosmetology schools in USA. Read on to learn more about them.
Do you pay much attention to your skin and the skin of others around you? Do you have a passion for beauty and other people’s physical appearance? If you’re considering a career in cosmetology this article is for you.
Before diving into schools of cosmetology, let’s take a quick review of what cosmetology is all about and why you should consider a career in cosmetology.
What Is Cosmetology?
Cosmetology is a branch of science that studies the treatment of physical appearance in human beings. As a cosmetologist, your branches of speciality include; beauty treatments, skincare, hair styling, pedicure/manicure, cosmetics, and permanent and non-permanent hair removal.
A license of occupation is required in all states in the United States of America for an individual to be a professional cosmetologist. The average cost of a certificate from an accredited institution is around $17,000, and the required time of study is 1,500 hours before a certificate is issued.
Cosmetology As a Career
Becoming a licensed cosmetologist allows you to become self-employed and work at high-end salons. As a licensed cosmetologist, you have the option to choose which salon is best for you to work in.
However, having your salon allows you to earn more, provided you have the right business plan in place. Before you can register a private salon, you’ll need a certificate of registration and the right documents to be presented to your state’s department of labour.
Furthermore, it is important to note that each state has different requirements for an individual to obtain an occupational license for cosmetology.
For example, the state of New York requires an applicant to be at least 17 years old and must have completed 1,000 hours of study and pass the New York practical and written exam. The applicant must be examined by a nurse practitioner, a physician or a physician’s assistant.
The examiner must complete and date the health section of the applicant’s application. An applicant is required to submit his/her application within 30 days after the health certification is dated and signed.
As of May 2015, the bureau of labour statistics stated that the median salary of a cosmetologist is $28,770. Although, it is not always the case because according to The New York Times, cosmetology schools are expensive and train students for low-paying jobs.
This was confirmed when The New York Times interviewed over 20 students, one of the interviewed former students paid $21,000 for tuition at the Iowa School of Beauty. She obtained her license in 2005 and was hired at a local Great Clips where she was paid $9 per hour.
After 13 years of graduation, she realized that she was still owing more than $8,000 on her loans. If she continues at the same pace, she might end up paying her loan till old age.
This should not discourage you, some cosmetologists earn up to $35,000 – $60,000 annually. This salary is based on educational background, experience and geographic location.
The Top 10 Best Cosmetology Schools In The United States
We know that it can be quite confusing to choose among hundreds of beauty schools in the US. That is why we took our time to outline the top 10 best cosmetology schools in the US to help you pursue your dreams.
- Aveda Institute
Avada institute is number 1 on our list, they combine old-age ayurvedic knowledge with modern technology providing mind-blowing skin care. The institution offers a curriculum with contemporary skills, business skills and diverse techniques. Their beauty program includes; Cosmetology, Esthiolpgy/skin care, and massage therapy.
Aveda Institute Fee starts from $11,400 and students have the opportunity to apply for financial aid.
- Paul Mitchell Schools
Paul Mitchell Schools is a nationwide network of over a hundred schools offering a career-focused cosmetology program. The school has professional instructors with experience in teaching and practice.
This institution is accredited by NACCAS and they offer the following programs; several diplomas in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, nail technician and instructor program.
Paul Mitchell Schools’ tuition fee starts from $23,000 and students have the opportunity to apply for financial aid.
- Xenon Academy
Xenon academy is a recognized beauty school that is located in Nebraska. The institution has two campuses and they offer educational programs on esthetics, cosmetology and barbering.
Xenon Academy has an edge over other academies because they are in partnership with Peels Salon Services, hence, offering excellent training and education. The academy’s tuition fee starts from $18,000 and they offer financial aid to students.
- Evergreen Beauty College
Evergreen beauty college has been producing top-class professional cosmetologists for over 25 years. The college is situated in Seattle, Washington, and they are accredited by NACCAS.
You can change your dream into reality with Evergreen Beauty College, they offer affordable education with a tuition fee starting from $7,200. The institution offers the following programs; cosmetology, hair design, esthetics, barbering, makeup artistry, nail technician and instructor training.
- Turning Point Beauty College
Turning Point Beauty College is certified by the Veterans Administration and accepts Veterans into its programs in addition to NACCAS accreditation.
The institution offer beauty programs in cosmetology, nail instructor and cosmetology instructor. They offer affordable education with a tuition fee starting from $6,350, they also offer their students financial aid.
- Holywood Institute of Beauty Career
Holywood Institute is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). The institution’s certificate study requirement is 1,200 hours, the average student takes 10 months to complete a full-time day session. The evening session typically lasts for 17 months.
The institution offers the following programs; cosmetology, barbering, electrology, nail technology, skincare and massage therapy. Hollywood Institute’s tuition fee starts from $10,000 and they offer students financial loans.
- Ogle School
Ogle school was established by Shelton Ogle, a renowned international hairstylist. The school have been producing world-class cosmetologists since 1973.
Ogle school is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). And they offer the following programs; cosmetology and esthetics. The institution’s tuition fee starts from $25,000. Students have the opportunity to apply for financial aid.
- Tricoci University of Beauty Culture
The history of this institution goes way back to the early 70s when Mario Tricoci and his brother Franco opened their salon. As time goes on, Mario Tricoci became an internationally recognized cosmetologist, and that was when he opened the university in 2004 to inspire people.
Tricoci University is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). And they offer the following programs; cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, nail technology and teacher training. Their tuition fee starts from $25,000.
- Vidal Sassoon Academy
Vidal Sasson Academy offers training in hair styling, design and colour. Their programs include; cosmetology courses and different diplomas in hair styling. The institution does not grant students financial aid and their tuition fee starts from $15,000
- Pivot Point Academy
Pivot Point Academy belonged to a talented hair stylist late ‘Leo Passage’. The institution provides students with a wealth of first-hand experience as well as the opportunity to learn from top salon experts.
The institution offers the following programs; cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, teacher training, makeup artistry and continuing education. Their tuition fee starts from $5,000 and they provide students with the opportunity to apply for financial aid.
Final Words
The reputation of the above-mentioned schools precedes them, unlike some schools that give students portfolios and textbook experience, the schools mentioned above provide students with first-hand experience.
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