5 Best Cosmetology Schools in Chicago for 2017

When you pursue a career in cosmetology, it’s important to find the right school to fit your needs. So by taking a look at the best cosmetology schools in Chicago, you’ll be able to find a school that both fits your career path and expectations.

Cosmetology is an exciting, evolving field. New products, techniques, and styles emerge on a regular basis. That’s why you need to find a school that will keep you on the cutting edge of the industry. Some factors of consideration should include the programs they offer, the price, and of course the best fit for your individual needs.

In addition, you should also consider what type of education the schools you’re looking into are offering. For example, 1500 credit hours are a standard requirement for all the schools on this list. But the exact fields you’re interested in may influence the correct delivery method. Here are our 5 top schools in Chicago:

1. Douglas J. Aveda Institute

This school has the highest attendance rate in all of Chicago. It prides itself on being a leader in the industry, preparing students for a career in cosmetology better than any of its competitors.

Because the Aveda Institute is both a school and a salon, it provides excellent training for students. The skills you’ll gain will not only include your future trade but business training as well. You must complete 1,500-hour comprehensive program for your training, in one of the various tracks the institute offers.

The Aveda Institute has a national reputation, in part thanks to accreditation by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences. Cost can be calculated through a price calculator, so you’ll have a better idea of what your expected expenses of earning your cosmetology degree will be.

2. Paul Mitchell The School Chicago

Another school to consider for your cosmetology degree in this area is Paul Mitchell The School. Located in downtown Chicago, this program has a three level design structure. Additionally, the school is also accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. In other words, your education will not just be high-quality, but also credible and well-regarded in the industry.

Another advantage of Paul Mitchell The School is its straightforward model of tuition and fees. You’ll know exactly what to expect. While also being treated professionally; in fact, you’ll be referred to as a future professional, not a student.

One of the only negatives about this institute is its primary focus on hair. If you are looking for a different track within cosmetology, you probably won’t find it here. But if you are interested in the nuances of hair styling, this could be the perfect fit for you.

3. Tricoci University of Beauty Culture

Founded in 2004, this University offers cosmetology as one of the various programs. Upon applying, you’ll know exactly what to expect: of course, you need the required 1,500 hours, but its program already laid out exactly to take 12 months of full-time study or 20 months part-time. A set plan like this is perfect if you want to estimate your time commitment.

Tricoci University offers courses in makeup application on several of its campuses, ideal for those interested in getting into the field. But as a whole, its curriculum strives to give you a great base of core knowledge in all aspects of cosmetology.

Cost could be a factor swaying you away from this school. Instead of a straight listing, you fill out the net price calculator to see what the total cost would be for you. Like Paul Mitchell The School, it is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences, consistently having met performance and education standards over the years.

4. Niles School Of Cosmetology

After more than 30 years in the industry, this school certainly has earned its accreditation from the NACCAS. If you are looking for an education for a bargain, this school is an excellent choice. In fact, it is a very affordable option compared to other schools in Chicago. Its focus is not on a particular track within the industry, but a general base of knowledge of cosmetology. Because you’ll get trained in all areas of cosmetology, you’ll be a jack of all trades and prepared for any direction within the industry once you graduate.

The average cost of cosmetology school is near $30,000, which is why the cost of attendance at $11,000 for Niles School of Cosmetology is significant. If you are trying to follow your passion but only have limited funds to pursue your career, it’s a great choice.

Additionally, this institution offers a variety of class times, so you’ll be able to take classes in the day or evening–whichever suits your needs. Whether you have a work and family life or want to take classes full-time, Niles School of Cosmetology has a schedule for you.

5. Steven Papageorge Hair Academy

If you have a passion for hair, you may have found your perfect choice. In fact, this academy’s curriculum is focused on the subject. After taking classes that range from fundamental theories to sculpting, design, texture theory, and management, you’ll graduate prepared to take your state license exam.

Like the other schools on this list, Steven Papageorge Hair Academy has received accreditation by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, increasing its credibility and speaking to its quality of education. Tuition is about $17,000 per year, and financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Additionally, this institution is focused on helping its students succeed after graduation. Its focus career placement means they will help you find your first job and succeed in your field after graduation.

Finally, rolling enrollment makes this school a great choice for many students. Whenever you are ready to start your cosmetology education, you simply need to apply, before you can start classes on the first Tuesday of the next month. Rather than having to wait through an entire admissions cycle or even a semester to start your education, you can get started as soon as you want. Classes offered at a variety of days add to this flexibility.

When you live in Chicago or the surrounding area and want to start a career in cosmetology, you’re in luck: the area offers a broad range of good schools for you to consider. Depending on the direction you want your cosmetology education to take, you’ll be sure to find an institution that meets your needs.

From full-time to part-time, any of the above schools will help you to graduate on your schedule and help you start working in the career of your choice. Of course, your situation greatly influences the ideal school for you. If you want to work with hair, pick a school which focuses on this subject rather than the other aspects of cosmetology. But if you’d rather work with makeup or nails, other schools may better suit your needs.

Regardless of your preferred school, always look for accredited institutions like the above. They are not only recognized to be high-quality but can give you the skills and knowledge that you need to become an exceptional cosmetologist and pass all necessary license exams. Find the right school for your intended career path, and the sky is the limit.