How to Choose the Right Beauty Program for You

Embarking on a career in beauty can be an exciting journey filled with creativity, connection, and growth. Whether you’re drawn to hairstyling, skincare, educating others, or updating your skills, choosing the right beauty program is a vital step toward turning your passion into a profession.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from self-reflection and accreditation to cost and career support, so you can confidently choose the program that aligns with your goals.

1. Start with Your Passion and Career Goals

Begin by reflecting on what genuinely excites you about the beauty industry. Do you envision creating bold hair colors and stylish cuts? Prefer working one-on-one to help clients feel confident in their skin? Or do you see yourself teaching others your passion for beauty?

Here are the main programs to explore:

• Cosmetology: Includes hair design, cutting, coloring, skincare basics, nails, and makeup. Cosmetologists can work in salons, spas, or freelance.
• Esthetics: Focuses on facials, waxing, makeup, and spa services for spa environments, dermatology clinics, or boutique studios.
• Cosmetology Instructor: Designed for licensed cosmetologists who want to teach and mentor others.
• Esthetics Instructor: Perfect for licensed estheticians moving into educational roles.

Ask yourself:

• Which environment do you see yourself in: salon, spa, clinic, or classroom?
• Do you want to work creatively on busy floors or in a more tranquil spa setting?
• What income, schedule, and long-term growth best fit your lifestyle?

This self‑assessment can help ensure you choose a path you’ll enjoy and thrive in for years to come. Explore more insights on each path in our posts about the Benefits of Becoming a Cosmetologist and Benefits of Becoming an Esthetician.

2. Check Accreditation and Licensing

Choosing an *accredited, state‑approved program is critical for licensing eligibility and financial aid access.

In Illinois:

• Cosmetology requires 1,500 hours of training.
• Esthetics requires 750 hours of training.
• Instructor tracks require additional education hours on top of a valid license.

Verify your program meets these standards. Visit the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation’s cosmetology page for full requirements.

*NACCAS accreditation ensures programs meet quality standards in education and training. However, individual employment outcomes and licensing eligibility are determined by each state’s licensing agency.

3. Review Curriculum and Practical Training

A high‑quality *program includes both theory and hands‑on learning:

• Cosmetology: haircutting, color, styling, chemical services, skincare, nails, makeup, sanitation, and client communication.
• Esthetics: facials, waxing, makeup, body treatments, and product science.
• Instructor programs: teaching methods, lesson planning, and classroom strategies.

Check whether student salon or spa clinics are part of the program. This practical experience is essential for skill and confidence development.

*Curricula vary by program and state requirements. Programs may be subject to change based on licensing regulations.

4. Compare Program Length and Scheduling

Consider what *fits into your life and timeline:

These hour requirements come directly from our program information. Ask about evening, weekend, or hybrid schedules if you are working or managing other commitments.

*Program lengths are approximate and depend on individual student progress and scheduling options. Completion times are not guaranteed.

5. Explore Facilities and Learning Environment

Your training *environment can impact your success:

• Modern student salon or spa spaces that mimic real‑world settings
• Professional‑grade tools and current products
• Organized classrooms and clean, compliant workstations
• Instructors who are supportive and available

Plan a visit or attend an open house to assess if the campus suits your learning style and goals.

*Facilities and equipment vary by campus and program. Schools are required to meet state and accreditor requirements.

6. Understand Costs and Financial Aid

Budgeting wisely is key:

• Accredited schools often offer financial aid to those who qualify, including federal aid, grants, scholarships, and payment plans.
• Compare program costs with expected career earnings, factoring in tips and self‑employment potential.

Your *financial aid advisor can help review options and build a plan that fits your needs.

*Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

7. Evaluate Career Support and Alumni Success

Strong *post‑graduate support sets successful programs apart:

• Resume preparation and mock interviews
• Job placement assistance and salon or spa partnerships
• Sharing alumni success stories to inspire and guide

Check placement rates and hear about where graduates have found careers. Read insights from alumni like Gina Greenwood in Advice for Future Professionals From a Hair Pros Graduate.

*Employment outcomes vary based on location, market demand, and individual effort. Schools cannot guarantee job placement or income.

8. Consider School Culture and Connection

The right environment can enhance your educational experience:

• Instructors who mentor and support
• A friendly, connected student community
• A balance of professionalism and creativity

When on campus, observe how students interact and whether the space feels inclusive and positive.

9. Schedule a Campus Visit

Before *choosing a school:

• Meet with instructors and visit student workspaces
• Watch current students at work
• Attend a demonstration or info session
• Ask thoughtful questions, use guidance from our post 5 Questions to Ask When Touring Beauty School

A visit will give you confidence in making the right decision.

*Enrollment is subject to availability and completion of required application steps. Scheduling a tour does not guarantee immediate enrollment.

Journey Toward a Beauty Career

Choosing the right beauty program means aligning your passion, goals, and lifestyle. Reflect on your path, confirm accreditation and hours, evaluate the learning experience and environment, and consider financial and career support so you are ready to succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Visit our Programs Page for complete details. When you’re ready, schedule a tour to see our campuses in action. Your journey toward a beauty career starts with a tour and a conversation with our admissions team.