Barbers provide cuts, tapers, and trims and specialize in mustaches, beards, and more. An appointment with a trained barber is an experience, one that’s designed to relax the client and ensure they walk away feeling refreshed. If you’re interested in becoming a professional barber, discover what the process entails. Here, Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes describes what you need to know about barber certification and the path toward beginning your career.
What to Expect During a Barber Certification Program
A comprehensive barber certification program covers several areas of expertise from technical skill to safety and ethics. Common coursework in a barbering program include:
- Men’s grooming and styling
- Face and head shaving
- Facial massage
- Razor fades
- Hair coloring for men
- Clipper haircuts
- Straight razor shaves
Students enrolled may also receive a kit of professional-grade tools to use throughout their education. Once you’ve completed the program and received your certification, students are encouraged to take their equipment with them into the workplace. Like Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, many schools offer flexible course schedules tailored to the needs of busy students, making it easier to pursue a career-focused educational program.
Barber State Licensure Requirements
Training to become a barber doesn’t end in school — states typically require students to take examinations and apply for licensure. Barber certification programs are tailored to meet state requirements and help students hone the technical and professional skills they’ll need. To fulfill the full breadth of knowledge in the art of barbering, schools may also offer additional training opportunities.
The number of training hours required to earn a barber’s license varies by location. Before embarking on a program, students are encouraged to review their state guidelines. The following are examples of how programs may differ by location at Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes:
Colorado
In the state of Colorado, students earn 1,500 program hours by the end of our certification program. The Colorado Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure requires students to walk away from their program having learned certain skills in the field. Once you complete your program, you may apply for a license in the state of Colorado and schedule a time to take the barbering exam. In Colorado, the exam consists of written and practical portions.
Utah
In the state of Utah, students are required to complete 1,000 hours before receiving certification. As in other states, the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing requires students to train in certain areas. Once you’ve completed your program, you’ll need to provide proof of certification to apply for a license. At that point, you may schedule a time to take the theory and practical examinations.
Transfer hours are typically reviewed on a case-by-case basis. If you have begun a program and wish to finish out your education in another institution, reach out to the admissions department to make sure your training hours will carry over.
Learn More about Our Barbering Program
As a barber, you’ll provide a unique experience for your clients and help them maintain a sharp, personalized appearance. Our barber certification programs in Denver, CO, and Provo, UT, cover each state’s requirements and also provide additional opportunities for extracurricular events and learning the latest trends. Contact Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes for more information today.
