Congratulations! You’ve finally decided on a career you want: cosmetology! That’s exciting! You would hope that the tough decisions stop there, but the next decision is determining where you want to enroll, and where to attend cosmetology school is a big decision! Do they offer what you seek? What is the format like? Below are five things to ask yourself when deciding which cosmetology school is right for you!
#1 Program Length
Cosmetology programs can vary in length, so the first step is to see how long the program is. Whether the program offers part- or full-time enrollment can be a factor in this decision as well. You will want to know how long it will take you to become licensed and if that is a length of time that is okay with you! Some schools may offer an accelerated or a decelerated program as well, so make sure the one you pick works for you and your life plans.
#2 Accreditation
Another aspect of choosing your cosmetology school is understanding whether that school is accredited or not. In order to apply for financial aid assistance, you will need to attend an accredited school. Only NACCAS-accredited schools are recognized by the state and, therefore, the only schools for which you are eligible to apply for scholarships and federal aid.
#3 Program Products
The program that you choose will supply the majority of the beauty products (for hair, skin, etc.) that you will use during your time at cosmetology school. Making sure they are a quality product that is relevant to the current market is important. Being happy and confident with the products that you’re using can also help make a difference after graduation when it’s time to find your first salon job.
#Program Cost
Unfortunately, cosmetology school isn’t free, and the cost of it can vary based on program and location. Picking a school that doesn’t plunge you into incredible amounts of debt can be very helpful post-graduation. No one wants to start making real money just in time to have to give the majority of it back to a lender. A school being a reasonable distance away is important, too, when you consider gas money, commute time, etc. You’ll want to think about it!
#5 Curriculum / Instructors
Make sure that the school of your choice focuses on the aspects of cosmetology that interest you. The curriculum will directly impact not only what you learn, but it will determine if you are ready to perform in a professional salon upon graduation. In the same vein, it is important to find a program with instructors who are experienced and people whom you would trust. Your instructors should be educated and experienced, providing you with insight into the industry that you wouldn’t get from a textbook alone.