Requirements to Become...
Accountant
Air Traffic Controller
Anesthesiologist
Archaeologist
Art Teacher
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Athletic Trainer
Attorney
Author
Bail Bondsman
Baker
Barber
Bartender
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What are the Requirements to Become a Barber?

Every state mandates that barbers earn a license from an accredited cosmetology or barber school, but the requirements to become a barber vary from state to state. Many states also require a GED as minimum education.

Barber School

Many cosmetology schools offer barbering programs, which last about nine months. Barbering schools focus on providing hair and skin services for men. After completing the program, barbers take a written state licensing exam, and they also may have to demonstrate their skills. Many barber schools offer placement programs to help graduates enter the field. Some schools also offer financial aid to full-time students.

Skills You'll Learn at Barber School
  • Foam Shaving
  • Razor Hair Styling
  • Hair Cutting
  • Blow Drying
Personal Skills

Barbers work with people. A pleasant personality, good communication skills--both talking and listening--and a neat appearance are crucial to developing clientele and earnings tips. A good memory also helps, as customers feel more welcome--and generous with their tips--when you remember how you to style their hair without asking.

Employment as a Barber

Nearly half of the barbers in the work force are self employed and tend to work long hours. Employment of hairdressers is expected to increase nearly 12 percent, higher than the national average for most professions.

Final Considerations

Spending a day or two with a barber prior to entering barber school can help decide if this is a smart career path.




The following colleges offer programs that can help you become qualified for a Barber career:
  Virginia College

Ready to earn a well-respected degree? Need a flexible schedule? Virginia College can help. Become an office superstar with our business program. Or make a difference in your community by earning a paralegal or Criminal Justice degree. Can't get enough of your computer? Try our programs in Information Systems or Cybersecurity. No matter what program you choose, you'll get the top-quality education you deserve with an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College.

  Fortis Institute

At Fortis Institute, we provide students with the skills and training they need to prepare for a variety of in-demand career fields, including Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Dental Assistant, and Medical Business & Clinical Specialist. We offer qualified instructors, personalized attention, career services for our graduates, and much more. Programs vary by location. Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information.

  Empire Beauty Schools

At Empire Beauty Schools, we give you the knowledge and hands-on training you need to launch a career in the cosmetology field. All of our teachers are trained to give personal attention to every student, including career guidance and special instruction classes. And every Empire Beauty School is fully equipped with modern salon furniture and cosmetology tools to prepare for successful careers. Financial assistance is available for qualified students.

  Vatterott College

Vatterott College's innovative, hands-on training helps you build the life you want. Everything we teach has practical, real-world value. Earn your Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor's degree in Trade, Technology, Healthcare, Design, or Administrative fields and start your future. Vatterott College's expert instructors and flexible schedules enable you to get the skills employers demand—fast. When can you start?

  Marinello Schools of Beauty

Get started on your beauty career with training from Marinello Schools of Beauty. We are the largest and longest-established chain of beauty schools serving Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. Our schools are designed to simulate a salon environment for the purpose of beauty education, providing practical, hands-on training. Each campus is equipped with the latest visual and teaching aids, as well as cutting-edge professional beauty equipment on par with the top salons in America.

  The Hair Design School

Get started on your career with the Hair Design School. We offer training for careers as a cosmetologist. Our programs provide students with hands-on training utilizing the latest skills and professional tools. Students also get to work on real clients in our student salon.



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