Embark on an exciting career where you’ll use your creativity to make people look and feel their best. Pursuing an education in cosmetology provides an outlet to develop and express your creativity and enlist in a profession that is financially rewarding in light of the growing demand for beauty professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for cosmetologists will be 8% through 2028. More than just the availability of jobs, cosmetologists enjoy flexibility in work environments and schedules. They work in spas, hotels, salons, barbershops, and resorts. The satisfaction of making someone else look and feel good and the opportunity to become self-employed and build your own brand are some other benefits of a cosmetology career.
Cosmetology schools in Chicago cover the mandated 1500 clock hours of instruction to prepare students for the State of Illinois Licensure Exam. Your investment of time and money will lead to the development of skills in styling and cutting hair, coloring hair, manicuring, pedicuring, nail art, skincare, using and cleaning equipment, and customer service. After completing an accredited cosmetology program, your next step is to pass the licensing exam administered by Continental Testing Services. You must apply to take the exam and pay the exam fee before an authorization is granted to schedule your exam date. Submit your application for a license with your proof of age, your cosmetology certificate or diploma from an approved school, and official exam scores to obtain your license. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation issues a license to all eligible applicants.
Dudley Beauty College
Dudley Beauty College prepares adults for the State Licensing Examination and entry-level employment in the field of cosmetology. The 1500-hour state-approved program includes theory and practical applications to give students the technical abilities to work in all phases of the industry. The Beginning levels lay the foundation for advanced knowledge and skills covering 300 hours of the curriculum. The final advanced courses will cover an additional 1200 hours. Areas of study include coloring, cutting, salon management, creative curling, and much more. Various class schedules are available.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate
Duration: Varies
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Must have completed high school or equivalent
- Attend an admission interview
- Must have good moral character
Program cost:
Use the contact information below to obtain a current schedule of classes and tuition.
Website: https://www.dudleybeautycollegechicago.com/beauty-certifications
Address: 8501 S. Green, Chicago, IL 60620
Phone: (773) 488-5900
Alternate: (773) 488-5418
Fax: (773) 488-5272
Email: dudleychicago@yahoo.com
John Amico School of Hair Design
John Amico offers personalized training to cosmetology students, preparing them with essential skills in cutting, designing, coloring, hair additions and texture services. Hands-on activities begin from day one as students work on mannequins to build foundational skills to establish advanced techniques in formulating, creating, and color application. Experienced instructors will emphasize the latest American and European techniques using many of the products created by John Amico. Apart from skill training, the program also incorporates business training that will inspire students to start their own salon or spa. Students who successfully complete the program will earn certifications in color, men’s barbering, hair sculpting and design, keratin, and sew-in braiding.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 15 months (full-time) 18 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Attend an interview at the school
- File an application for admission
- Submit copy of high school diploma or GED
- Must have a driver’s license or state ID and social security card
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $19,920. It includes tuition, registration fee, books, equipment, supplies, and state tax.
Website: https://www.johnamicoschoolofhairdesign.com/cosmetology/
Address: 15301 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Forest IL 60452
Phone: 708-687-7800
Tricoci University
The cosmetology program at Tricoci University prepares students for an entry-level career in the field of Cosmetology. Students will learn the most current techniques and trends in hairdressing, hair coloring, and cutting all built on the scientific building blocks for hair, skin, and nails. The goal of the program is to foster the development of knowledge, skills, and creativity for students to be able to perform hair sculpture, texture, color, and design services. The program will also include thorough training in nail services, skin care, waxing, facials, and makeup application. Course modules will include basic training, practical chemical application, hair styling, shop management, sanitation, and interpersonal relations, esthetics, nail technology, and electives. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the state licensure exam.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 34 weeks
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age by the first day of class
- Must have a high school diploma, high school transcripts of completion, or a GED certificate
- Meet with an Admissions Advisor for interview and campus tour
- Submit a completed Application for Enrollment
- Complete and sign an Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of tuition and fees is $19,982. Books and supplies cost an additional $3,120.
Website: https://www.tricociuniversity.edu/
Address: 5321 N Harlem Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656
Phone: 773-467-1900
I.M. Beauty School
I.M. Beauty School offers a comprehensive cosmetology course that covers all aspects of the industry. Students will acquire basic, modern, and advanced skills in cosmetic science. They will learn haircutting, coloring, design, hair texture, nail services, pedicures, manicures, skin care procedures, and waxing. Marketing and communication skills as also key features of the program that will prepare students to build and expand their business.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 10 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Complete an application for enrollment
- Provide proof of completing high school or GED
- Attend an admission interview
- Must be 18 years or older
Program cost:
Contact the school for a current schedule of classes and tuition.
Website: https://www.imbeautyschool.com/cosmetology
Address: 615 Milwaukee Ave Glenview IL 60025
Phone: 224-432-5178
Trenz Beauty Academy
Trenz Beauty Academy’s Cosmetology program prepares students with knowledge and skills to start a career in cosmetology. The 1500 clock hour program includes theory and practice in haircuts, hair coloring, sew-ins, crochets, feed-in braids, and much more. Full-time and part-time schedules are available. Course modules include Basic Training, Practical Chemical Application/Hair Treatment, Hair Styling/Hair Dressing, Shop Management, Sanitation, and Interpersonal Relations, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Electives. Classes meet Wednesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or Wednesday through Friday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Certificate
Duration: 52 weeks (full-time) 79 weeks (part-time)
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Must have a valid photo ID
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $18,500 for students who complete it in the normal time.
Website: http://www.trenzbeautyacademy.com/programs/cosmotology-program-2/
Address: 2605 West 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60652
Phone: 773-737-7400
Douglas J Aveda Institute
The cosmetology program facilitated by Douglas J Institute teaches students business management techniques in addition to the expected salon skills. The 1500-hour curriculum covers a variety of topics essential for success in cosmetology, such as haircutting, styling, skincare, nail care, and makeup artistry. Instructors will use demonstrations, lectures, and practical activities to improve students’ understanding of the content. The content is delivered in 5 phases: Intro, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Salon Life. Day and evening classes are offered to meet students’ scheduling needs.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 15 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Submit an Admission Application
- A letter of recommendation from a guidance counselor or teacher
- Provide a Letter of Intent
- A high school diploma or transcript that includes the date and year of graduation or high school equivalency diploma
- Pay the application fee of $100
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $24,000. It includes tuition, kit, applicable taxes, and the application fee.
Website: https://douglasj.edu/programs/our-programs/
Address: 2828 N Clark St, Chicago, Illinois 60657
Phone: 877-311-8957
City Colleges of Chicago
The Cosmetology Department at City Colleges of Chicago is committed to producing a diverse student body capable of taking the licensing exam and providing cosmetology services to the greater Chicago area. Students will be inspired to commit to life-long learning to improve the quality of services they provide. The curriculum includes theory and hands-on training that meets the standards of the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation for cosmetologist training. After completing the program’s requirements, graduates will be prepared to sit for the licensure examination through the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation. A license is required to practice cosmetology in Illinois.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 3 semesters
Contact hours: 1500
Credit hours: 36
Prerequisites:
- Submit a completed application online
- Provide proof of completing high school or GED
- Attend an admission interview
Program cost:
Tuition costs $146 per credit hour for resident students and $384 per credit hour for non-resident students.
Website: https://www.ccc.edu/colleges/truman/departments/Pages/Cosmetology.aspx
Address: 1145 West Wilson Ave Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: 773-907-4000
Pivot Point Academy
The cosmetology program at Pivot Point Academy leads to a Cosmetology Diploma that will grant students eligibility to take the licensure exam in the state of Illinois. The training will cover all aspects of beauty including nail care, esthetics, skin care, makeup, and business management. Experienced educators support students in the development of both basic and advanced beauty skills that will enable them to function as confident beauty professionals. The curriculum is divided into four phases each designed to enhance knowledge in the areas of nail care, skin care, hair styling, makeup, barbering, and more.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 12 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Must hold a high school diploma from an accredited high school or GED
- Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative
- Must take and pass the English and math entrance exam
- Provide a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license or state ID card
Program cost:
Tuition and fees cost $18,398. Books and supplies cost an additional $3,017.
Website: https://www.pivotpoint.edu/education/cosmetology
Address: 144 E. Lake Street, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Phone: 847-985-5900
Steven Papa George
The cosmetology program at Steven Papa George Hair Academy includes classroom lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on training to give students a solid foundation for state licensure and practice as a licensed cosmetologist. Course modules include cosmetology foundation, hair sculpting, hair design, texture theory, color theory, salon management, professional ethics, and communication. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the licensure exam in the State of Illinois.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 50 weeks
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Complete an application for enrollment
- Must submit a high school diploma, high school transcript or equivalent
- Attend an admission interview and campus tour
- Sign an Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $17,950 including tuition, registration fee, and student kit.
Website: http://stevenpapageorgehairacademy.com/courses/
Address: 3401 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: 773-883-5100
Empire Beauty School
Empire Beauty School’s comprehensive cosmetology program teaches students to use the latest trends in coloring, haircutting, and design, apply hair texture concepts to cut and style hair, provide nail services such as manicures and pedicures, and use marketing and communication skills to build a business through positive word of mouth.
Program overview:
Massage Cosmetology
Duration: 12 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Meet with a Admission Representative to learn the program’s requirements
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Provide proof of completing high school or GED
- Must be 16 years or older
Program cost:
Scholarships and grants are available to help students fund the cost of the training. Job placement assistance is offered to all students.
Website: https://www.empire.edu/programs/cosmetology
Address: 3106 West North Avenue, Stone Park, IL 60165
Phone: 708-761-6016
Mr. Robert’s Academy
The cosmetology program offered by Mr. Robert’s Academy includes theory and practical experiences to prepare students with the skills to succeed as a licensed cosmetologist. Lectures and hands-on activities will cover chemical safety, hair and scalp conditioning, shampooing, tinting, bleaching, permanent waving, hair coloring, hair relaxing, toning, and rinsing. Other essential topics covered include client relations, bookkeeping, sanitation, emergency first aid, marketing, merchandising, personal grooming, and hygiene. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the State of Illinois licensure exam and work as a stylist, color technician, or perm specialist.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 11 to 13 months full-time or 16 to 25 months part-time
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend an Enrollment Appointment
- Submit a copy of a high school diploma from an approved high school or GED
- Provide a copy of driver’s license or state ID card
- Complete the admissions enrollment application and application fee of $100
- Make a deposit of $300 on the required kit
- Sign the enrollment contract provided by the admissions representative
- Discuss financing options with an advisor and make arrangements for payment
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $10,000 inclusive of the registration fee, tuition, kit, books, and uniforms.
Website: https://www.msroberts-academy.com/cosmetology-school/
Address: 552 Mannheim Rd. Suite A, Hillside, IL 60162
Phone: (708) 649 9088
Denmark College
Denmark College’s state-licensed cosmetology program includes hands-on, skills-based topics that will prepare students to become a licensed cosmetologist. Experienced instructors will cover all aspects of hair care including cutting, design, coloring, sew-in weave, braiding, and extension. Skin care, nail care, and salon management are also a significant part of the program. Students will spend equal amounts of time in the classroom as in the computer lab and in practical activities. Time will also be allocated to apply the principles learned in the student clinic. Topics covered will include infection control, communicating for success, properties of the hair and scalp, scalp care, shampooing and conditioning, professional image, hair removal (waxing), manicuring, pedicuring, nail tips and wraps, and salon business. New students are admitted every month.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 11 months (full-time) 16 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 600
Prerequisites:
- Attend a campus tour and interview with an Admissions Representative
- Must have a high school diploma or GED from an accredited school
- Complete all enrollment and financial documents
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must demonstrate knowledge of the industry
- Pay the enrollment fee of $100
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $18,800 for full-time students and $20,800 for part-time students.
Website: https://www.denmarkcollege.edu/cosmetology/
Address: 1139 West 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 6062
Phone: 844-323-2737
Cameo Beauty Academy
The Cosmetology course offered by Cameo Beauty Academy seeks to equip students with theory, practical skills, and professional attitudes that are essential for state licensure and employment as a cosmetologist. Students will learn how to cut, style, and color hair, apply make-up, care for skin, perform manicures and pedicures, communicate effectively, and project a professional image. Extensive preparation for the state exam will give students the confidence to succeed on the State of Illinois Licensing Examination. Coordinated activities in the student clinical will provide an opportunity to apply the concepts learned in the classroom on real-world clients. Students who successfully complete 1500 clock hours of coursework, maintain 70% or above on the written and practical work and score 75% or above on the final exam will be eligible to graduate from the program and receive a Cosmetology Diploma.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 8 months full-time
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Complete an interview and school tour with an Admissions Representative
- Submit a completed Enrollment Agreement
- Must have completed high school and provide official high school transcript or must have completed the 10th grade and provide a GED certificate
- Must be a U.S. citizen or be an eligible non-citizen
- Pay the $100 application and registration fee
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $17,325. Books and supplies cost an additional $2,300.
Website: https://www.cameobeautyacademy.com/courses/cosmetology-course-objectives/
Address: 9714 S. Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Phone: 708-636-4660
G Skin & Beauty Institute Chicago
G Skin & Beauty Institute seeks to inspire students to be passionate about cosmetology. The 1500-hour European influenced curriculum helps students develop a natural ability for cutting, design, and texture with an emphasis on Natural and Organic. Expert instructors will cover every color technique – including total grey coverage and highlighting natural colors- which will give graduates a competitive edge in the industry. Another unique approach is the ingredient-based learning that will teach students how to choose the right products for each hair type. Students will have access to videos, presentations, and class notes, which will allow for easy and flexible learning. Graduates will be prepared for certification in all aspects of the beauty industry including make-up, skin care, and nail care.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 52 weeks full-time
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma/GED/HiSet or bachelor’s degree, associate degree or 60 credits hours towards a college degree
- Complete all registration paperwork and submit all required documents and the $100 registration fee and application
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $19,800. It includes the registration fee, class kit and books, and kit tax. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://gskinbeautyinstitute.edu/cosmetology-school/
Address: 17 N State St #400, Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-854-1101
Capri College
The cosmetology program offered by Capri College prepares students for licensure in the State of Illinois and employment as a licensed cosmetology. Theory and practical instruction will cover all aspects of hair plus basic training in nail care and esthetics. Course modules include Basic Training, Practical Chemical Application/Hair Treatment, Hair Styling/Hair Dressing, Shop Management, Sanitation and Interpersonal Relations, Esthetics, Related Electives, and Nail Technology. Students must complete 1500 clock hours, pass two semi-final exams with a minimum score of 75%, pass the final exam with a minimum score of 75%, and achieve a Level For on Clinic Totals to graduate from the program.
Program overview:
Cosmetology (Undergraduate Certificate)
Duration: 42.5 weeks full-time 79 weeks part-time
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must submit high school transcript or equivalent showing graduation from a recognized school
- Attend a campus tour and interview with an Admissions Representative
- Submit a completed application and fee
- Complete and sign an Enrollment Agreement
- Provide proof of identification – driver’s license, state ID, passport or birth certificate
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $19,000. The cost of registration is $50. Books, equipment, and lab access will cost an additional $2,090 including tax. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://capri.edu/education/cosmetology-program/
Address: 15815-25 Rob Roy Dr, Oak Forest, IL 60452
Phone: 708-687-3020
Rosel School of Cosmetology
The cosmetology program at Rosel School of Cosmetology prepares students for a variety of careers including that of a stylist, colorist, esthetician, make-up artist, or nail technician. Experienced instructors will cover classroom theory and practical hands-on experiences to train students in various beauty techniques that fall within the scope of practice for licensed cosmetologists. Students will learn hair dressing, hair cutting, permanent waving, scalp treatments, hair coloring, facials, make-up, and facial and scalp massages. Additional training in sanitation, management, salon operations, client safety, ethics, and communications. Students must complete the required clock hours within the stated timeframe, complete the final theory and practical exams with a minimum score of 85%, and pay the tuition balance in full to graduate from the program. Graduates will receive a diploma and will be eligible to take the State of Illinois Licensure Exam. Part-time and full-time schedules are offered to meet students’ needs.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 18 months full-time 36 months part-time
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Must have a good moral character
- Submit a completed application and fee
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $13,000. It includes registration fee, books, supplies, and tuition. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://roselschool.org/
Address: 307 Golf Mill Center, Niles, Illinois, 60714
Phone: 773-508-5600
Your School of Beauty Culture
The cosmetology program at Your School of Beauty Culture covers theory and practice in the concepts of cosmetology to prepare students for licensure in the State of Illinois. The 1500 clock hour curriculum will include training in the fundamentals and art of hair and skin care, basic nail services, extensions, hair coloring, hair styling, hair cutting, makeup application and business operations. Part-time and full-time schedules are offered to meet students’ needs.
Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 12 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- A high school diploma or GED
- Must have a valid photo ID
- Submit a completed application and required paperwork
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $7,700 including the cost of the kit.
Website: https://yourschoolofbeauty.com/available-courses
Address: 116 East Pershing Road Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: (773) 538-4886
Aveda Institutes
Students enrolled in the cosmetology program at Aveda Institute will gain real-world experience that will guide their success in the beauty industry. The curriculum will cover hair cutting, hair coloring, and hair styling using signature Aveda techniques and products. The program will also cover makeup application, nail care, and business operations. A critical part of the program is the real-world experience that students will obtain as they style clients at the Aveda Institute Salon.
Program overview:
Cosmetology Diploma
Duration: 12 months
Contact hours: 1500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Attend an interview and campus tour
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Sign the Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://aveda.edu/locations/location/chicago-il/
Address: 2828 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: 877-311-8957