The Barbering Program

Barber School

The hot modern-day barbershop trend is exploding. More and more men are wanting a comfortable space where they can get where they can get the full barber experience of grooming, a classic taper or fade style haircut and a relaxing shave performed by a trained, professional barber. Our three-level program gives you hands-on training in everything from precision haircutting, color and texture to skincare, shaving and grooming, plus the personal and business skills you need to build a career.

*Programs vary by location. Please use our location finder to determine which locations offer this program.

Our Program Levels

LEVEL 1: CORE

A foundation course focusing on the fundamentals of both the theory and technical foundations of hair, skin, men’s grooming, facial shaves and an introduction to our Paul Mitchell Schools culture. Future Professionals learn the fundamentals in theory, then practice them hands-on in the safe environment of the classroom. You’ll work on mannequin heads and receive close, personal attention from a Learning Leader guiding you every step of the way.

Technical Areas Covered Include:

Haircutting
Chemical work (including coloring and perms)
Men’s shaving and grooming
Basic skin and grooming
Basic skin care
Hairpiece design, fitting, and maintenance
And much more

LEVEL 2: ADAPTIVE

The learning continues in the classroom and on the clinic floor, where Future Professionals practice and perfect the fundamental skills learned in Core. Adaptive-level students work on live models in a barbershop-like environment with the oversight and support of their Learning Leaders. You will work with professional products and learn how to conduct client consultations and create extraordinary guest-service experiences.

Areas Covered Include:

Practice on real people in a barbershop-like environment
Perfect your skills with help from Learning Leaders

LEVEL 3: CREATIVE

The Creative phase is where Future Professionals begin to expand their skills and learn more advanced and creative techniques. At the Creative level, students prepare to become barbershop-ready by working more independently. The pace and conditions are similar to those in a barbershop. You will develop your speed, build a résumé and portfolio and prepare to pass the state board test.

Areas Covered Include:

Work independently (under the supervision of a Learning Leader)
Prepare a career portfolio
Prepare to pass the State Board test
Develop speed and prepare to start your career

How to Become a Barber

With the support of a Paul Mitchell Schools education, you will be prepared to take your state exam and get started in your barbering career. Thanks to your efforts and the guidance of your Learning Leaders, you’ll have the practical knowledge to pursue your barbering career—and you can feel confident taking the long-standing reputation of the Paul Mitchell® and Paul Mitchell Schools name with you as you launch your barbering career.

See How We Teach

Student Kit

We want you to be prepared. That’s why our Future Professionals receive their own professional kit packed with all the essentials—mannequin heads, shears, clippers and trimmers, a straight-edge razor, combs, clips, and much more—so you’re ready to succeed in school and launch your dream career.

BARBERING LICENSE

Passing the Barbering State Board Examination is one of the eligibility requirements you must meet in order to obtain your cosmetology license. Additional requirements vary by state, so please contact a Paul Mitchell Schools Admissions Counselor at a location near you so we can provide you with the best information and guidance.

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FUNDING YOUR EDUCATION

There are a wide variety of financial aid options out there—and we’re here to help you find them. Every campus has a dedicated Financial Aid Leader to walk you through your options.

Learn More

Get Started

Our programs graduate over 10,000 students every year from our 100+ schools. Programs vary by location, so please find a Paul Mitchell School near you for more information on class start dates, tuition and opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.

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