Did you know that there are over 105,805 barbershops in the US? That means if you want to start your own business one day, you’re going to have to do a lot to stand out from your competition.
The best way to do that is by attending the best barber school. With all the options before you, that can be a little easier said than done.
You’ll first have to find a program that includes all the courses you want to take. Program length and accreditation are also two important factors.
Check out this guide to learn more about finding a barber school that will help you jump-start your career.
1. Available Classes
Learning the craft is only one part of harnessing your barber skills. Your program should also include business classes that will help you open your own shop after you graduate if you choose to do so.
Some classes that you should look for are razor cutting, hair cutting, shampooing and conditioning, hairstyling, beard and mustache design, anatomy of the hair and scalp, and barbershop management and operations.
2. Program Length
As you can imagine, taking the classes listed above is going to take time. You won’t be able to harness your craft overnight, and you shouldn’t try to.
As far as how many credit hours you’ll need to graduate from your program, it varies. You may have to attend 20 hours of classes a week or 30. Some people choose to take extra courses to speed things along.
3. Accreditation
In order to receive your state certification to become a barber, you’ll have to attend an accredited school. Well, you don’t have to, but it will greatly increase your chances.
Not only that, but accredited institutions often have higher quality equipment and instructors than others.
4. Compare Your Options
With the number of barber schools available, you can afford to take a moment to compare your options. Again, look at the type of classes that your program offers.
Find out what type of instructional methods the school uses. Is it mostly hands-on, or will you have to sit through a bunch of educational videos?
If you know someone that’s gone to barber school, ask them about their program.
5. Practice
You can only learn so much by sitting in a classroom. There comes a time when you need to get a little hands-on training.
If your program never lets you get your hands on a pair of scissors, you’ll be at a loss when someone walks into your shop. When looking for a school, ask them what kind of training you’ll receive and find out what equipment you’ll be working with.
Finding a Barber School That Will Help Pave the Way to Your Future
Choosing the right barber school won’t only help you pass your state certification. It will also set you up for success once you open your own shop.
Contact us today to find out more about our barber programs and our available classes.