What is cosmetology & barbering?

Cosmetology and barbering careers are all about helping people look and feel their best.

Cosmetologists work with hair, skin and nails, while barbers mostly focus on cutting and styling hair—especially for men.

People in this field cut hair, style it, color it, do makeup, give facials and more.

If you enjoy being creative, working with people and helping others feel confident, this might be the perfect path for you!

COURSES

Course order	Course names	Credentials earned
1	Cosmetology Fundamentals (Prerequisite)	Alabama Certified Worker (Ready to Work)
2	Barbering Fundamentals (Prerequisite)	Barbering Licensure
2 or 3	Hair Coloring	Cosmetology Licensure
2 or 3	Chemical Services	Natural Hairstyling Licensure
4	Salon Practices & Management
5	State Board Practicum
6	Career Pathway Project in Cosmetology & Barbering
Anytime in the progression after Cosm. Fund. or Barber. Fund (Prereq)	Natural Hairstyling

Certifications

Alabama Certified Worker

(Ready to Work) - Entry-level workforce readiness certification, often offered in partnership with AIDT and community colleges

Barbering Licensure

Students are prepared to take the State Board Exam to become a licensed barber

Cosmetology Licensure

State-recognized license qualifying students to practice cosmetology, including cutting, coloring, chemical services, and more

Natural Hairstyling Licensure

Prepares students for licensure in natural hair care techniques (braiding, locs, twisting, etc.)

DIRECT TO CAREER

Ready to jump right into your career?

You can apply for the following jobs directly after graduating:

Licensed Cosmetologist

Barber

Makeup Artist

Nail Technician

Required certifications:

State Cosmetology License

Barber License

Specialized Certifications (e.g., Lash Extensions)

COLLEGE

Hone your skills before making your mark.

College pathways:

Cosmetology

Barbering

Salon Management

Business Management (for ownership)

Local college options:

University of Alabama:
Management

Stillman College:
Business Management

Shelton State:
Salon and Spa Management

Dual Enrollment

Thinking about starting college early?

The University of Alabama, Shelton State Community College, Stillman College and Auburn University all offer dual enrollment courses you can take in high school to graduate college earlier – no matter where you decide to go to college.

DUAL ENROLLMENT COURSES

Alabama-approved CRI options:

These state-approved credentials can be used to meet the college and career readiness requirements of the Alabama High School Diploma for post-secondary credentials.

Certiport – Entrepreneurship and Small Business (must hold concentrator status)

Barber Licensure

Esthetician Licensure

Manicurist Licensure

National Retail Federation – National Professional Certification in Customer Service and Sales

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