Cosmetology Schools in New York City, NY

The global spas and beauty salons market is expected to reach USD 191 billion in 2024 according to a report published by Zion Market Research. The projected value of the industry stems from an increase in demand for wellness solutions and services by both men and women. The affordability of professional haircare on the lower end and demand for high-value services such as hair coloring and permanent modifications also drive growth in the industry. No longer just an outlet for extra money, cosmetologists can earn a lucrative income working full-time or part-time and have more freedom and flexibility than the traditional 9-to-5 worker.

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In this image-conscious era, there will also be a need for creative and professional stylists. As an aspiring cosmetologist, it is critical that you start your career with a comprehensive and inspirational education that encourages creativity and lays the foundation for lifelong rewards in the industry.

Robert Fiance Schools of Beauty

The Robert Fiance Cosmetology program helps students develop professionalism and habits that are the foundation for success in business. The curriculum will include theory and practical instruction in hairstyling, barbering, cutting, coloring, nail technology, and skin care. Students will participate in workshops and have opportunities to showcase their skills as they bring their imagination to life. Small class sizes support personal attention and the development of specialized skills. The first half of the program includes a heavy emphasis on theory and the application of knowledge on mannequins and classmates. The final half includes hands-on training in the student salon to work on real clients and sharpen technical skills. Several day and evening schedules are available.

Program overview:
Cosmetology/Hairstyling
Duration: Day program (10-15 months) Evening program  (13 to 18 months)
Contact hours: 1200 hours

Courses:

History of Barbering, State Laws & Regulations/Salon Management, Beard & Mustache Trimming, Decontamination & Infection Control, Chemistry, Thermal Curling & Waving, Hair, Scalp & Reconditioning Treatments, Shampooing & Rinsing, Facials & Massage, Skin Care, Make-Up Application, Depilatory, Eyebrow Arching, Shaving, Chemical Relaxing & Pressing, Permanent Waving, Manicuring & Pedicuring, Hair Tinting & Bleaching Including Frosting, Tipping & Streaks, Layering & Clipper Cutting/Tapering (Razor, Shears, Thinning Shears) Hairstyling, Pin Curls, Finger Waves, & Blow Waving

Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 17 years of age
  • Hold a high school diploma or equivalent

Program cost:
The cost of the program is $15,413. Books and supplies will cost an additional $2,155.

Website: https://robertfiance.edu/campuses/west-new-york/
Address: 5518 Bergenline Ave West New York, NJ 07093
Phone: 1-877-71LEARN

American Beauty Institute

The Hairdressing/Cosmetology program offered by American Beauty Institute trains students for entry-level employment in the cosmetology industry. Theoretical and practical instruction will cover the control of infection and communicable diseases, scalp and hair problems, basics of straightening hair, the art and techniques of individual hairstyling, working with wigs, facials and makeup, and business management. Students are expected to attend all classes. They must present at least 85% of the course hours to graduate.

Program overview:
Hairdressing/Cosmetology
Duration: Based on the schedule
Contact hours: 1000 hours

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Courses:

Orientation, Sanitation & Sterilization, Shampoo & Rinse, Scalp & Hail Treatment, Hair Shaping, Hair Analysis, Hair Styling, Hair Coloring & Lightening, Permanent Waxing, Hair Straightening, Facials, Massage & Make Up, Manicuring, Business Management

Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Attend a personal interview

Program cost:
Use the contact information below to get a current schedule of classes and tuition.

Website: https://beautyinstitute.us/
Address: 30 W. 32nd Street 4th Fl., New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 564-2555
Alt: (212) 564-9300
Email: abischoolny@gmail.com

American Beauty School, Inc.

The cosmetology program at American Beauty School prepares students to become licensed by the New York Licensing Department. The 1000-hour curriculum includes theory and hands-on technical skills in the student salon. It is designed to cover skincare services including facials, waxing, and makeup application. Students will gain a wide variety of skills to pursue a number of career options.

Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 33 weeks
Contact hours: 1000 hours

Courses:

Hair Cutting, Styling, Color Theory, Skincare, Makeup, Braids, Two Strand Twists, Chemical Restructuring – Perms and Relaxers, Weaves, Chemical Treatments, Manicures, Waxing, Client Relationships, Business Development

Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 17 years of age. High school students must obtain parental consent.
  • A high school diploma or GED. Applicants without a high school diploma or GED must take the Ability-to-Benefit exam as an alternative
  • Provide a copy of birth certificate or other proof of age

Program cost:
The cost of the program is $9,280. It includes tuition, registration, textbook, and equipment.

Website: https://americanbeautyschool.edu/
Address: 1380 Metropolitan Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462
Phone: (718) 285-9850

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute

The cosmetology course at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute prepares students for state licensure and employment as an entry-level cosmetologist. The curriculum includes theory and extensive hands-on practice for students to have a good foundation in beauty and wellness. It will cover 1,500 hours of instruction in nail care, hair cutting, makeup application, business development, and retail. The latter part of the program includes real-world training to apply the skills learned in the classroom. Graduates will be prepared to perform client consultation, use good habits for personal appearance, hygiene and work ethics, perform hair styling, hair cutting, and hair coloring techniques, and use proper body positions and mechanics in practice.

Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: Full-time (29 to 46 weeks), Part-time (63 weeks)
Contact hours: 1500 hours

Courses:

Professional Requirements, Safety and Health, Anatomy and Physiology, Hair Analysis, Hair and Scalp Disorders and Diseases, Chemistry as Applied to Cosmetology, Shampoos, Rinses, Conditioners and Treatments, Hair Cutting and Shaping, Hair Styling, Chemical Restructuring, Hair Coloring and Lightening, Nail Care and Procedures, Skin Care and Procedures

Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 17 years of age. High school students must obtain parental consent.
  • A high school diploma or GED. Applicants without a high school diploma or GED must take the Ability-to-Benefit exam as an alternative
  • Submit a completed application for enrollment and the non-refundable application fee
  • Provide a copy of a driver’s license, state ID, passport or birth certificate

Program cost:
The total cost of the program is $20,295. It includes the kit fee, iPad, and application fee.

Website: https://avedaarts.edu/student/programs/
Address: 233 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: 212-807-1492

Arrojo Cosmetology

The award-winning cosmetology program at Arrojo Cosmetology maintains a high standard of excellence in the delivery of theoretical and practical content. Apart from technical skills like razor cutting and coloring, instructors will also emphasize soft skills like client communication, timekeeping, client retention, and retailing. The curriculum begins with the fundamentals of modern styling which sets a strong foundation for other content followed by cut and color techniques covering State Board essentials. The application of knowledge is an opportunity for students to take their skills to the student salon flow to practice learned skills on models, and the perfecting of skills is the final stage where students begin working on clients.

Program overview:
Cosmetology
Duration: 8 months full-time
Contact hours: 1000 hours

Courses:

Professional Requirement, Safety and Health, Anatomy and Physiology, Hair Analysis, Hair & Scalp Disorders & Diseases, Chemistry as Applied to Cosmetology, Shampoos, Rinses, Conditioners and Treatments, Haircutting & Shaping, Hair Styling, Chemical Restructuring, Hair Coloring and Lightening, Nail Care and Procedures, Skin Care and Procedures

Prerequisites:

  • Must be at least 17 years of age
  • Have a high school diploma, TASC, GED certificate or transcript
  • Submit photo identification
  • Submit a completed Admissions Questionnaire
  • Attend an interview with the school Admissions Coordinator
  • Submit a letter of recommendation
  • Demonstrate academic background and a commitment to the craft of cosmetology

Program cost:
The total cost of the program is $19,600. It includes tuition, books, student kit cost, and registration fee.

Website: http://www.arrojocosmetology.com/
Address: 200 Hudson Street New York NY 10013
Phone: 646 979 2265 X 411

Empire Beauty School

The Cosmetology program at Empire Beauty School trains students in the basic, contemporary and advanced techniques needed for a successful career as a cosmetologist. Students will learn the latest trends in cutting, coloring and design for men, women, and children, concepts of hair texture, manicures and pedicures, and marketing and communication skills. Empire maintains a teacher to student ratio of 30:1 for theory and 20:1 for practical experiences. Graduates will be prepared to take the New York State exam and meet the requirements for licensure. They will be knowledgeable in practical skills such as hair cutting, shaping, coloring, and lightening, nail care procedures, skin care procedures, general safety and sterilization, job opportunities in the Beauty Industry, and professionalism and customer service.

Program overview:
Hairdressing/Cosmetology
Duration: Full-time (35 weeks) Part-time (66 weeks)
Contact hours: 1000 hours

Courses:

Professional Requirement, Safety and Health, Anatomy and Physiology, Hair Analysis, Hair & Scalp Disorders & Diseases, Chemistry as Applied to Cosmetology, Shampoos, Rinses, Conditioners and Treatments, Haircutting & Shaping, Hair Styling, Chemical Restructuring, Hair Coloring and Lightening, Nail Care and Procedures, Skin Care and Procedures

Prerequisites:

  • Must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Foreign nationals may enroll with a current and valid I-94.
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Must demonstrate the character, readiness and commitment to successfully complete the program
  • Prior criminal offenses may be evaluated
  • Must be proficient in both written and verbal English

Program cost:
The total cost of the program is $15,600. It includes tuition, books, student kit, career success tablet, and textbook download fee. An installment plan is available for all students.

Website: https://www.empire.edu/cosmetology-schools/new-york/new-york-city-manhattan
Address: 22 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 347-809-3292

Capri Cosmetology Learning Center

The Hairdressing and Cosmetology program at Capri Cosmetology Learning Centers in New York trains students to become professional cosmetologists. The curriculum includes 1,000 hours of theory and practical instruction covering hair, make-up, nails, and skin care that will qualify students to take the state board exam to become licensed cosmetologists. While the program emphasis will be on hair, students will acquire a broader set of skills in nails and skin care. Classes will be conducted in the classroom and student salon and spa to apply the theoretical skills acquired throughout the program. New classes begin every two months. Day and evening schedules are available.

Program overview:
Hairdressing/Cosmetology
Duration: Full-time (7.5 months) Part-time (15 months)
Contact hours: 1000 hours

Courses:

Hair Cutting, Hair Styling, Hair Coloring, Cosmetic Product Knowledge, Manicures and Pedicures, Esthetics (including skin care and waxing), Makeup Application, Retailing & Customer Service

Prerequisites:

  • Must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States
  • Must have a high school diploma, GED, TASC or Wonderlic Basic Skills Test
  • Be 17 years or older. Proof of age required

Program cost:
The estimated cost of tuition and fees is $14,100. Books and supplies will cost an additional $1,895.

Website: https://www.caprinow.edu/
Address: 251 West Route 59, Nanuet, NY 10954
Phone: 845-623-6339

How Long Does It Take to Become a Cosmetologist In New York? 

Cosmetology programs that prepare students for licensure in New York cover a total of 1000 contact hours. The duration of cosmetology programs in New York City is 35 weeks part-time and 66 weeks part-time. The DOS processes applications within 2-3 weeks, so expect to obtain your license to practice within 9 to 12 months of commencing formal cosmetology training.  

How Much Does a Cosmetologist Make in New York City? 

There is a huge demand for cosmetologists in New York. Cosmetologists in New York have diverse opportunities to work in fashion, theatre, and reputable salons and spas. There are among the highest paid in the United States. The average salary is $48,320 for entry-level workers. Experienced estheticians can earn as much as $77,460 per year.  

How Much Does Cosmetology Training Cost in New York?  

A 1000-hour pre-licensure cosmetologist program is an affordable investment of $9,600 to $12,200 inclusive of tuition, books, kit, and supplies.  

Can I Get My Cosmetology License Online in New York?  

The Department of State – Licensing Services encourages the submission of the application for licensure online. Online submission facilitates the time processing of your application and allows you to view your application status and get real-time updates.  

What Are the Requirements to Be a Cosmetologist in New York? 

Licensed cosmetologists in New York can provide service to the hair, head, face, neck or scalp of a human being, including but not limited to shaving, trimming, and cutting the hair or beard manually or mechanically. The license makes provisions for the application of antiseptics, powders, oils, clays, lotions, or applying tonics to the hair, or scalp for a fee or any consideration or exchange, whether direct or indirect. Licensees must understand the Appearance Enhancement Law.  

Once obtained, your cosmetologist license is valid for four years.   

Steps to licensure:  

  • Submit your application for licensure on the New York State e-Licensing system. Go to the MY NY.gov Online Services page to sign up for a NY.gov ID account if you do not have one.  
  • Provide proof of age – you must be at least 17 years of age  
  • Provide proof of completing a 1000-hour approved course of study – the affirmation of the NYS Approved Schooling section of the application must be completed by the school’s director 
  • Provide proof of passing the New York State written and practical examinations. The affirmation of New York State Approved Schooling section of the application must be completed by your school director as proof of successful completion 
  • Have a physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner complete and date the Health Certification section of the application – application must be submitted within 30 days after the health certification is signed and dated  
  • Provide documentation of completing a 1- hour course on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness 

Applicants educated outside of New York State may apply for licensure and are eligible for temporary license. The DOS may waive the NYS schooling requirement if you can document an equivalent level of schooling from another state or country. To qualify via this route, you must submit: 

  •  A certificate of completion  
  • Official transcripts listing subjects and hours completed, AND 
  • Current licensure from your state or certification from the state board confirming hours claimed if you are not licensed.  

If you have five years of legal experience in an occupation equivalent to Cosmetology, you may apply for a New York State license by submitting satisfactory evidence of education and experience. 

 This includes:   

  • An original certification from the licensing agency you were previously licensed 
  • Two experience statements filled out by former employers, co-workers, clients, that can vouch for your experience in the state for at least five years.  Experience statements must include EXACT dates (month and year of start of service and month and year of end of service), location, and specific services that you performed.              
  • Copy of tax returns which indicate Cosmetology as occupation 

Experience from outside the United States may also be acceptable.  

An applicant who holds a Cosmetology license in another jurisdiction may obtain a Cosmetology license in New York through endorsement without examination or further education.  

The cost of initial licensure is $40. There is an extra $10 fee for a 6-month temporary license. Fees are payable by American Express, MasterCard or Visa.  

If you are applying for an initial application and a temporary license, you may combine the fees and remit one $50 application fee.