If you have a fascination with cosmetology and are on the search for the best cosmetology schools in Delaware, you've come to the right place.
I've always loved beauty and envied those who seem to have amazing hand to face coordination.
In my opinion, drawing perfect eyebrows is more than a skill -- it's a daily gift from the universe that skips my house regularly.
While I'm trying to figure out how to break this curse, I'm perfectly happy with researching and writing about cosmetology schools in Delaware for my smart dreamers. But first, we have to define cosmetology.
Quick Navigation
Taking It from the Top
The nitty-gritty of the job
Financial rewards
Important things you should know
Starting Your Cosmetology Journey
What will I study in school?
How long is the program?
How much does the program cost?
4 Traits of Top Cosmetology Schools
1. Accreditation
2. Academic and practical training
3. Business and professional training
4. Practicing instructors
Exploring Top Cosmetology Schools in Delaware
Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology
Aurora Academy of Hair Design
Hair Academy of Barbering & Beauty
Paul Mitchell School
Schilling-Douglas School of Hair Design
After Graduation and Licensing
Before You Decide on a School
Taking It from the Top
Cosmetology, in simple terms, is the study and application of beauty treatments.
It's expertly using a combination of acquired knowledge and beauty trends to provide services that improve the quality and overall appearance of hair, nails, and skin.
While cosmetologists were traditionally thought to be makeup artists, hair stylists, and nail technicians, growing areas in laser hair removal and non-surgical cosmetic procedures are redefining the field.
Cosmetology offers practitioners a rewarding career path filled with substance and longevity. Furthermore, it presents an avenue to teach proper self-care, as well as promoting feelings of self-worth and improving confidence.
The nitty-gritty of the job
Before we dive into cosmetology schools in Delaware, we need to explore who a cosmetologist is and what they do.
So, first of all, a cosmetologist is a licensed professional in the beauty industry who works in one or more fields relating to skincare, haircare, and nail care or provide specialized cosmetic services. Since the field is vast, it consists of several areas.
A few include hairstyling, permanent makeup, makeup, barbering, hair braiding, and general cosmetology. Although most cosmetologists are self-employed, their careers are regulated by the state in which they live.
They are required to have a valid license to practice legally.
Financial rewards
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics' 2018 report, cosmetologists earn an average of $30,190 annually, before tips.
The report also stated that their salaries vary due to factors such as area of expertise, salon location, years of experience, and clientele.
The median annual salary breakdown for other careers in cosmetology are as follows.
- Barbers: $25,650
- Estheticians: $30,080
- Manicurists and pedicurists: $23,230
- Theatrical makeup artists: $59,300
- Cosmetology teachers: $52,600
Important things you should know
When preparing for a career in cosmetology, it's essential to check the license procedures and requirements in your state. You should note that licensing regulations vary, depending on the state and the cosmetology regulations put in place.
Furthermore, each state may require applicants to have specific training to be eligible for the license in the area in which they seek. Before you start exploring cosmetology schools in Delaware, you need to determine the type of cosmetologist you hope to be.
To start, check out the job descriptions for a cosmetologist, a barber, an esthetician, a hairstylist, and a nail technician.
Starting Your Cosmetology Journey
Attending cosmetology schools in Delaware will lead you to become a cosmetologist generalist or specialist.
Regardless of the dream, the first step is to pick a school that aligns with your aspirations. The right school will teach you how to prepare for a rewarding career through a combination of in-class lectures and hands-on training in campus salons.
Here a few things to note, as well.
What will I study in school?
Although the program structure varies from school to school, the main components that make up the foundational courses in beauty programs are often the same.
They include barbering, makeup application and techniques, nail techniques and design, hairstyling, hair braiding, permanent makeup application and techniques, and general cosmetology.
At Harold Beauty Academy, a student's program outline includes hair sculpting (cutting), sanitation, sterilization and safety procedures/requirements, state laws and regulations, salesmanship, management, manicuring, pedicuring, hair removal, anatomy and physiology, and skin.
How long is the program?
Once again, the training program may vary from school to school. The duration of cosmetology programs is primarily affected by the requirements set by the state.
On average, it takes students between 9 months to 15 months to graduate from cosmetology schools in Delaware and around the country.
Additionally, many schools offer a flexible course structure, like night and weekend classes to accommodate students who have work or family responsibilities. Plus, most licensing boards in the United States require an average of 1,600 training hours to get licensed.
However, some states require as little as 1,000 training hours while others require as many as 2,300 training hours.
How much does the program cost?
Most states require cosmetology schools to embed a net price calculator on their website to give students a realistic financial insight into the program.
This tool is particularly handy because tuition for cosmetology schools vary from school to school.
Factors that affect tuition cost may include the area of study, total hours required, location of the school, campus facilities, and school rating.
According to Beauty Schools Directory, some schools are affordable, while others remain on the pricier end.
Also, to gain admission, you need to be at least 17-years-old and have a high school diploma or GED.
4 Traits of Top Cosmetology Schools
When researching cosmetology schools in Delaware, it's essential to consider only those with a proven history of success and top tier education.
The school you choose will have the most significant impact on your cosmetology career.
Here are four traits to look out for when picking a school.
1. Accreditation
An accredited cosmetology school provides the highest caliber of education. That's because the National Accrediting Commission for Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) governs them.
The NACCAS is recognized by the U.S Department of Education and oversees and sets standards for cosmetology schools.
Students who apply to accredited cosmetology schools in Delaware are eligible for federal financial assistance.
2. Academic and practical training
Another trait of a top cosmetology school is evident in their program structure. A combination of high-quality theoretical training and hands-on practical training is essential.
The program outline should cover all aspects of beauty culture.
Likewise, practical training features a well-equipped campus salon to provide students with tools and realistic training.
3. Business and professional training
A top cosmetology school extends its curriculum beyond the beauty industry and related techniques.
Since most cosmetologists are highly entrepreneurial, it's no surprise that approximately 44.5 percent are self-employed.
That's why it's essential to check the program outline of cosmetology schools in Delaware for courses that promote business management and entrepreneurship
4. Practicing instructors
A practicing instructor will have an extraordinary impact on your studies and future career. That's because they understand the current needs of clients and keep up with beauty trends.
Students who have practicing instructors gain insight into the industry and gradually learn how to deal with challenges.
Exploring Top Cosmetology Schools in Delaware
To become a cosmetologist in Delaware, you have to complete a comprehensive cosmetology program, which must include at least 1,500 classroom hours.
Here are a few schools to consider.
Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology
The main factors that make Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology a top tier institution is a strong business program, low graduation debt, and job placements for 96 percent of the graduation class.
The school is dedicated to creating a strong foundation for students who are preparing for a career in cosmetology, esthetics, manicuring, teacher training, and advanced education.
The school issues an iPad to each student for course materials, provides scholarships, and accepts VA benefits.
Delaware Cosmetology has 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Google Reviews.
Aurora Academy of Hair Design
This school of cosmetology and master barbering equips students with the education and creative skills needed to become well-rounded professionals.
The program structure of cosmetology and barbering require 1,500 training hours, while the nail technology programs require 300 hours of coursework. Likewise, the instructor and refresher courses ask for 500 and 150 training hours, respectively.
Aurora Academy of Hair Design provides top-notch salon services to the public, which allows students to gain real cosmetology experiences through apprenticeship.
The school is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars on Google Reviews.
Hair Academy of Barbering & Beauty
This school is one of the best and first cosmetology schools in Delaware.
The Hair Academy of Barbering & Beauty doesn't just focus on theoretical and practical training. They also provide students with a strong business education to help them settle into salon management positions, as well as other forms entrepreneurship in the beauty industry.
Their master barbering and cosmetology programs require 1,500 hours and focus on preparing students for the state licensure exams.
The school accepts VA benefits and has 4.2 out of a 5-star rating from Google Reviews.
Paul Mitchell School
Their location-based system and advanced schooling system is what makes Paul Mitchell a thriving institution.
Paul Mitchell is more than an educational facility; it's an iconic brand of professional hair care products that have existed for over 30 years.
Their unique network system has made it possible to have 100,000 salons in 81 countries, as well as over 100 schools.
Their hands-on approach to cosmetology and excellent training techniques make it possible for 10,000 students to graduate each year.
The school has 4.3 out a 5-star rating on Google Reviews and raises money for charities through their FUNRaiser program.
Schilling-Douglas School of Hair Design
The Schilling-Douglas School of Hair Design is by far one of the best cosmetology schools in Delaware.
The school successfully pulls in students from different states due to their comprehensive program that accommodates all learning styles.
A combination of in-class learning, campus salon training, and strong business background makes their students successful.
Currently, their programs include cosmetology, barbering, nail technology, and teacher training. It's rated 4.6 out of 5-stars on Google reviews.
After Graduation and Licensing
A degree or diploma in cosmetology will prepare and qualify you for a variety of professions in the beauty industry.
These include makeup artist, salon or spa manager, beautician, wedding and event stylist, hairstylist, nail technician, and esthetician.
Some licensed professionals go on to work in the fashion and beauty industry as lifestyle magazine editors or consultants. Others become sales and marketing specialists in the cosmetic industry.
Additionally, there are career options in teaching students in cosmetology schools as well.
Furthermore, there are career options in specialized fields, including fashion design, laser training, management, and massage therapy.
Before You Decide on a School
The best cosmetology schools in Delaware exist to provide you with the best foundation in a competitive industry.
However, to have a successful career, you need to have a passion for the field and be ready to give your best to the courses.
Before you start your journey, consider everything discussed in this article and pick a school that best aligns with your aspirations.
Also, remember to contact the school and ask questions about the program structure and state licensing to receive first-hand information. You may also request a tour of the campus.
Do you love cosmetology? What has been your experience with cosmetology schools? Tell us below!
