School of Cosmetology and Barbering
Next Fall cohort begins Oct. 5, 2026. Applications are due by Aug. 1, 2026. The next Winter cohort is Feb. 1, 2027. Applications for the Winter cohort are due by Dec. 1, 2026.
Kalamazoo Valley provides convertible to credit, employer-recognized credentials which prepare students to take state cosmetology and barbering licensing exams with the possibility to build upon these certifications to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in salon management* or an Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Technical Studies.
Programs in development include a 600-training hour nail tech program, a 750-training hour esthetician program, a 500-training hour cosmetology instructor program and a one-year barber instructor program.
*Based on approval from the state of Michigan and Higher Learning Commission.
Cosmetology []
- 1,500 hours, year-round program, 350 hours in the classroom are required before working on the clinic floor.
- The program covers education on shampooing and scalp health, haircutting and coloring, chemical relaxer and permanent waving, manicures and pedicures, cleaning/sanitation practices, skin care, waxing procedures, anatomy and physiology.
- Technical skills such as wiggery, hair extensions, hair restoration, eyelash extensions and natural hair cultivation.
- Class hours
- Part-time class hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Full-time class hours: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Barbering []
- 1,800 hours, year-round program, 80 hours in the classroom are required before working on the clinic floor.
- The program covers education on haircutting and coloring, shampooing and scalp health, cleaning/ sanitation, chemical relaxing and permanent waving, skin care, razor shaves, beard trims and lineups, anatomy and physiology.
- Technical skills such as wiggery, hair extensions, hair restoration, eyelash extensions and natural hair cultivation.
- Class hours
- Part-time hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Full-time class hours: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Cost of Attendance []
- Tuition is $10 per training hour
- $15,000 for tuition (Cosmetology)
- $18,000 for tuition (Barbering)
- Both programs require a book and a kit. Fees vary, between $700 - $1,000, and includes state licensure exam fees.
- Funding is available for Kalamazoo Promise-eligible students.
Steps to Enroll []
- Apply to the School of Cosmetology and Barbering
Complete an application packet for the School of Cosmetology and Barbering. Applications are accepted year-round and are reviewed beginning Aug. 1 for the October cohort and Dec. 1 for the February cohort.
- Apply to Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Complete an online application to Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Be sure to indicate your program as KVCC Career Academy (KVCA) so we know you are interested in attending the School of Cosmetology and Barbering. You will receive an acceptance letter from the Admissions, Registration and Records office within one week.
- Financial Aid
The School of Cosmetology and Barbering qualifies for Kalamazoo Promise funding.
- Acceptance
If you are accepted into the School of Cosmetology and Barbering, you will receive an email from with your cohort start date, important next steps, rules and regulations. Acceptance letter emails will be sent in September for the October cohort and January for the February cohort. You must accept your spot within 14 days or your seat will be offered to another student.
- Payment
You will receive tuition bills three times per year. Tuition bills are available online in MyValley. Pay for your classes online, on campus or by mail. Payment plan options are available.
- Student ID
Stop by or schedule an appointment to pick up your ID at the Student Service Center. You will need to present a photo ID to verify your identity. A card is needed to use many services and is required at the Arcadia Commons Campus for parking validation and door access.
Request More Information []
- Email or call 269.488.4090.
