Key Takeaways: Education and training are essential to a long, successful career as a barber. We’re here to guide you through your questions about barber school, including “How long is barber school?” and “What should I expect in barber school?”
From creative freedom and financial opportunities to the ability to help people, there’s a lot to love about a career as a barber. Whether you embrace a traditional barbering role at a shop or take your talents on the road as a mobile barber, it all starts with one decision: attending barber school.
This first step can completely transform your life, but it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Knowing what you’re getting yourself into, including what to expect and how long barber school is, can set you up for making an informed decision and finding long-term success.
Crash Course: Your Guide to Barber School and Beyond
How Long is Barber School?
There is no one answer to this important question because different aspiring barbers have different approaches and circumstances. That being said, there are some general guidelines that can give you an idea of how long barber school might take you to complete.
For example, some future barbers have other jobs or obligations that demand their time. In situations like these, it will take slightly longer to complete barber school simply because you are not focused only on school. By attending barber school part-time or taking night classes, you can probably complete your educational requirements in about 18 months.
If you are able to dedicate yourself solely to school, that timeline quickens. Some full-time barber students are able to work their way through a program in as few as six months, though between nine and 12 months is more common.
Keep in mind that every barber school has its own set of requirements, which can impact how long you should anticipate attending. This can also be influenced by state regulations–some simply have more stringent requirements that extend your barber school timeline.
The majority of barber schools cater to those who have already graduated from high school, making a barber education the next step in your educational journey. However, some high schools offer barber training, allowing their students to make significant headway in their barbering journey before graduating. If you are young and feel confident in your commitment to a barbering career path, this may be a route worth considering.
What to Expect in Barber School
Every barber school is different, so there is no universal experience for aspiring barbers. However, you can get a feel for what your education will entail by familiarizing yourself with barber school curriculums, particularly if you already have a school in mind.
In barber school, you should expect to learn about:
- Barber chemistry. The barber industry relies on a number of products every day. From hair relaxers and shampoos to dyes and rinses, barber chemistry dives into the chemistry of cosmetic products and how to safely use them.
- Haircutting. Every great barber excels in the fundamentals of haircutting, allowing them to craft stellar cuts for their clients. Here, you will learn how to use shears, clippers, razors, and more.
- Hairstyling. From hair design and scalp massage to thermal pressing and hairpiece fitting, this barber school subject helps you deliver the look your future customers want.
- Hygiene and sanitation. One of the most important subjects in barber school is hygiene and sanitation. This teaches you how to handle chemicals safely, disinfect your equipment, and keep you and your clients safe.
- Related sciences and general knowledge. Here, you’ll learn about the basic science of each area of the body you will work with as a barber.
- Salesmanship and product knowledge. Barbers must be able to market themselves, and this course teaches you to be a professional each step of the way.
- Shaving. Caring for your client’s face is a must, and this part of barber school will turn you into an expert.
- Shop management. In addition to your technical skills, you must learn how to manage a barber shop to be successful. Expect to learn about legal regulations, taxes, inventory management, and more.
"Just like in your future career, barber school comes with inherent risk. Accidents and mistakes can happen."
How to Succeed in Barber School
While they may be important, barbering is about more than technical skills. To succeed in barber school, you will need to embrace other aspects of what it means to truly be a barber. Focus on developing your people skills, commit yourself to always learning (even after graduating), and try to keep yourself in good mental and physical shape.
With the right attitude and a solid dose of effort, you can complete barber school and kickstart a stellar career.
Why Barber Student Insurance is Essential
As you go through barber school and training, you will handle chemicals, interact with a myriad of people, and wield sharp instruments. Just like in your future career, barber school comes with inherent risk. Accidents and mistakes happen.
Rather than leaving your future to fate, invest in barber student insurance. By doing so, you are safeguarding your career from potentially devastating events before you even get started. A proper barber insurance policy will protect your reputation, keep you safe legally, and prevent financial ruin in the case of a lawsuit.
Whether you’re an established barber with a thriving shop or an aspiring student with big dreams, subscribing to National Barbers Insurance can keep you informed and inspired. We cover the latest trends, provide invaluable tips and tricks, and give you the industry insights you need to flourish.
