If you are interested in working in the cosmetology field in the state of New York it is important to know that there are certain requirements you must meet as determined by the New York Board of Cosmetology to become licensed. Here are the requirements in New York state:
- Cosmetologist license: 1000 hours
- Natural hairstylist license: 300 hours
- Esthetician license: 600 hours
- Nail technician license: 250 hours
- Barber license: 2-year apprenticeship
- Cosmetology instructor license: cosmetology license + work experience
- Waxing license: 75 hours
- Massage therapist license: 1000 hours
In addition to these requirements, all licensed cosmetologists must renew their license every 4 years. The cost of renewal is $40 with a $10 late fee penalty if you miss your renewal date.
Now that you have the New York state requirements, let’s review some of the top schools this state has to offer.
Long Island Beauty School, Hauppauge
Long Island Beauty School in New York is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Science; New York State Education Department’s Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision; and is a member of both the American Association of Cosmetology Schools and New York State Beauty School Association. This school has a 65-year history with graduates being recognized for their performance by industry professionals. They offer two programs:
- Hairdressing & Cosmetology Degree: 1,000-hour program offered in both English and Spanish
- Esthetics Certification: 600-hour program, currently only offered at their Hempstead Campus
While they make no guarantee for job placement upon graduation, they do offer assistance in finding a job. With an instructor staff of industry professionals, the school is able to help many students find employment once they complete their program requirements.
The cost of tuition is approximately $26,000. The good news is, they accept Federal Financial Aid so students that are eligible for Pell Grants and Federal Loans can take advantage of those resources to cover school costs!
Shear Ego International School of Hair Design, Rochester
This school is unique in that it was founded and currently operated by Salon Professionals in New York. Their founder, Gene Cardamone, previously served as the President of the New York State Beauty School Association and is internationally recognized for various achievements. The programs offered at this school range from:
- Hairdressing and Cosmetology Degree
- Barbering/Styling Certificate
- Esthetics, Skincare and Makeup Certification
- Nail Specialty Certification
- Waxing Certification
Similar to other cosmetology schools, they also offer job placement assistance for their students. They also accept federally approved financial aid through FAFSA®, so make sure to file. The cost of attendance at this school is approximately $25,300.
Academy of Cosmetology and Esthetics NYC, Staten Island
Part of the Paul Mitchell school family, this New York-based school specializes in Cosmetology and Makeup Degree Programs. They have a 3-level Cosmetology program: Core, Adaptive, and Creative. As students advance from each level they learn advanced skills to build upon their techniques.
The cost of tuition varies depending on the credit hours you take, here they are broken down for you:
- Cosmetology Degree (1,000 hours): Tuition cost is $14,500 plus supplies, kit, and other fees
- Makeup Degree Program (80 hours): Tuition cost is $2,800 plus supplies, kit, and other fees
- This school will accept federal financial aid, so make sure to file your FAFSA®.
Continental School of Beauty Culture, Syracuse
Located in the Mattydale Shopping Center in Syracuse, New York, this school offers a range of degree and certificate programs in Cosmetology. Their programs include:
- Hairdressing and Cosmetology Certifications
- Esthetics Certifications
- Esthetics and Nail Specialty Certifications
- Barbering Certifications
- Advanced Courses in Lash Extensions and Brazilian Waxing
This school is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The school is also licensed by the New York State Education Department and a member of the American Association of Cosmetology Schools.
They accept federal financial aid as well, so make sure you file your FAFSA® to see what you can be eligible for. The tuition cost is approximately $12,600.
Paul Mitchell the School, Schenectady
Another member of the Paul Mitchell school lineup, this school offers a Makeup Program and 3-level Barbering and Cosmetology programs: Core, Adaptive, and Creative. As students advance from each level they learn advanced skills to build upon their techniques.
- Makeup Program (140 hours): Total cost is $3,225 for tuition, supplies, and kit
- Cosmetology and Ultimate Make Up Program: 1,175 hours of training. Total cost is around $21,700 for tuition, supplies, and kit
- Cosmetology Program: (1,000 hours): Total cost for this program runs around $18,000 for tuition, supplies, and kit
- Barbering Program (615 hours): The total cost for this program is $11,900 for tuition, supplies, and kit.
As with all other Paul Mitchell Schools, federal financial aid is accepted, so make sure to file that FAFSA®.
Conclusion
With an abundance of quality options available, selecting the right cosmetology program and school can be overwhelming. However, by researching and understanding the offerings, accreditation, and financial aid options, you can make an informed decision.
