Cosmetology School at Tricoci University

Nationally accredited programs designed to get your beauty career launched quickly.
Hands-on training with beauty experts , gain real industry experience.
Graduate job-ready with career support and resources that go beyond the classroom.

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Day in the life of a cosmetology student

Follow Bailey on a journey through her daily schedule, including hands-on practice, creative projects, and learning with friends. Watch to learn more about what it takes to start a rewarding career in the beauty industry!

Read what people have to say about our cosmetology school

What does cosmetology have to offer?

The short answer? A lot. The long answer? Explore our detailed guides on all things cosmetology below.

Tricoci cosmetology student practicing techniques

Cosmetology School 101

Dig into the details of cosmetology school, from the type of education you’ll receive to how to balance costs and more.

Is Cosmetology a Trade School?

How Much Does Cosmetology School Cost?

What Is Cosmetology School?

Should I Go to Cosmetology School?

Does FAFSA Cover Cosmetology School?

Why Choose Cosmetology Night School?

Tricoci cosmetology student working on a client's hair

What Will I Learn in Cosmetology School?

Want to dive deep on the classes you’ll take and what the cosmetology school experience is really like? Read these articles for the inside scoop.

What to Expect On Your First Day of Cosmetology School

What Classes Are Required for Cosmetology School?

High School Courses for Cosmetology

Cosmetology Programs for High School Students

Learning Textured Hair in Cosmetology School

Student cutting hair in a salon setting at Tricoci

What Can I Do After Cosmetology School?

Life after cosmetology school can be pretty great. Wondering what it might look like for you? Explore our guides on career opportunities for cosmetologists.

What Does a Hair Color Specialist Do?

How to Market Yourself as a Cosmetologist

Hair Stylist vs. Barber: What’s the Difference?

Ready to learn more?

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Tricoci campus locations

With 16 campuses across three states and centrally located campuses in the heart of Chicago, Tricoci University is committed to helping make your dream career in the beauty industry a little more accessible.

Illinois

Wisconsin

Janesville

Indiana

Map highlighting Tricoci University of Beauty Culture locations

Pick your campus — then take the next step.

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"I graduated from Tricoci University feeling confident and prepared"

As a child of a former cosmetologist, I always had a huge passion for the beauty industry. After my enrollment meeting with Tricoci University I knew TUBC was where I was supposed to be. The energy that the staff has is contagious and that passion continues through in the work and teachings of their educators. From advanced hands on teachings to helping me prepare for my career, I graduated from Tricoci University feeling confident and prepared for my future.
– Krissy

Cosmetology students posing for a photograph

Cosmetology licensing

After completing your cosmetology program, you will need to acquire a license in the state where you wish to work as a cosmetologist. At Tricoci University, we prepare our students not only for the license exam itself, but for life on the salon floor after your licensing exam, too. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. Always do your research to ensure you are fully prepared for the licensing process in your preferred state.

Apply Now

Cosmetology students practicing hair cutting skills

Discover the right beauty career path for you

Sometimes the path to your perfect beauty career takes exploration. At Tricoci University, we specialize in helping students discover their ideal specialty through our exceptional programs in nail technology, esthetics, and barbering.

We believe every student deserves to find their ideal place in the beauty world. That’s why we’ve created multiple pathways to success, each with expert-led training and real-world experience. Whether your passion lies in nail artistry, skincare mastery, or barbering excellence, we provide the tools and support to help you build a rewarding career doing what you love most.

Esthetics student practicing skincare techniques at Tricoci

Esthetics / Aesthetics

Tricoci University offers a comprehensive esthetics program that helps students with a passion for skincare thrive in the beauty industry as knowledgeable and skilled skincare experts.

Nail Technology / Manicuring

Our nail technology program cultivates skilled artists through comprehensive training in modern manicure and pedicure techniques, creative nail design, and salon-quality application methods. Students graduate prepared to deliver exceptional client experiences and build loyal followings in this dynamic field.*

*Nail Technology is only available at select TUBC Campuses

Barber

Experience the art and science of modern barbering through our intensive program. Students learn from industry veterans, mastering precision cutting techniques, traditional shaving methods, and contemporary grooming services that set them apart in the competitive barbering market.*

*Barbering is only available at select TUBC Campuses

Esthetics student taking notes in at Tricoci

Instructor Training

For beauty professionals ready to transition into teaching, our instructor training provides the essential skills for shaping future talent. The curriculum focuses on effective teaching methodologies, student engagement strategies, and curriculum development to prepare graduates for success in educational roles.

Learn more about beauty school

Check out more detailed information on different aspects of our cosmetology courses.

What Cosmetology Supplies Do You Need for Beauty School?

Passion, drive, great teachers — these are key ingredients for success in cosmetology school. Perhaps […]

First Day of Cosmetology School – What to Expect

Congratulations, you’ve been accepted into cosmetology school—now what? After you’ve set up payment and financial […]

How to Decide: Should I Go to Cosmetology School?

When looking into cosmetology school as an option fresh out of high school or as […]

FAQs

Here are a few common questions we receive about what cosmetology training really looks like and what to expect as an incoming student.

How long is cosmetology school?

Required hours for completing a cosmetology program and being eligible to sit for the state licensure examination vary from state to state, but typically fall around the 1500 hour range in most states.

How much does cosmetology school cost?

The final cost of your cosmetology program will depend on a variety of factors including how much financial aid you qualify for, any scholarships or grants you may receive, and more. The best way to get a full understanding of how much cosmetology school may cost you is to discuss your options with the financial aid department.

What is cosmetology school?

Cosmetology school is a form of trade school where students learn the skills, techniques, and knowledge needed to perform a wide variety of spa and salon services such as hair cutting, hair coloring, and styling. Additionally, cosmetology school offers hands-on experience so that students are familiar with the practical application of the skills they learn in class, better preparing them for a successful career in the beauty industry.

What do you learn in cosmetology school?

Depending on your chosen specialty, you will learn a wide variety of skills and techniques pertaining to the career path you wish to pursue after completing your program. A common misconception is that a cosmetology program offers the same skills and training as an esthetics or barbering program. While Tricoci University is proud to offer all three, they are very different programs that teach skills specific to each area of study and the subspecialties within. Cosmetology students often go on to become hair stylists and hair colorists, working in salons or starting their own cosmetology businesses.

Join the next Tricoci University of Beauty Culture class today

Discover the exciting world of cosmetology and unleash your creativity. Join our cosmetology program and gain the skills to pursue a successful career in the beauty industry.

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