Cosmetology Programs
Cosmetology School in San Diego, CA
We educate and train our students (or as we call them, Future Professionals) to begin their careers in the beauty industry as licensed cosmetologists. Future Professionals are guided by our Learning Leaders through the cosmetology program’s three levels—Core, Adaptive, and Creative—taking on more advanced techniques and building real-world skills and confidence as they move through each stage. Our cosmetology program curriculum includes Paul Mitchell Advanced Education’s proprietary Cutting System, Color System, Texture System, Short Hair System, and Makeup System.
Our Program Levels
Level 1: Core
Level 2: Adaptive
Level 3: Creative
Phase Two
Level 1: Core
Begin your journey in the safety and comfort of a classroom to learn the foundational theory and technical basics essential for all Paul Mitchell programs. In the Core phase, you’ll work exclusively with simulated products and mannequins, allowing you to focus on developing your skills without the pressure of live models. This phase includes micro-exercises and bite-sized tasks, simulating real-world scenarios to build your confidence and proficiency. You’ll receive close, attentive coaching from Learning Leaders to understand the fundamental principles and practical applications of your chosen program, setting a solid foundation for your future learning.
Technical Areas Covered Include:
- Braiding, up-styling and finishing
- Perming and smoothing hair
- Hair coloring and lightening
- Precision haircutting skills
- Manicure, pedicure, makeup and facials
- And much more
Level 2: Adaptive
Start bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the Adaptive phase. In this phase, in addition to working on mannequins, you will incorporate the use of real chemical products and live models for the first time. This hands-on experience is designed to help you apply the skills and techniques you learned in the Core phase in a real-world setting. You’ll begin completing full exercises, from full applications to creating complete looks, all under close supervision. This phase focuses on developing and honing your practical skills, ensuring you are adept at handling real clients and situations. It’s a crucial step in building your confidence and competence in a salon environment.
Areas Covered Include:
- Practice on real people in a salon-like environment
- Perfect your skills with help from Learning Leaders
Level 3: Creative
It’s your time to shine and work toward a career-ready future in the Creative phase. Here, you’ll take on more independent work, exploring your creativity and mastering advanced skills. The focus shifts to perfecting speed, timing, and frequency of your services, pushing you to work more efficiently while maintaining high quality. You’ll continue to practice and apply what you’ve learned in the Adaptive phase, but with an added emphasis on speed and precision. This phase is designed to prepare you for the state board exam to gain licensure.
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
Phase Two
An optional course of intensive study within the Cosmetology program for those Future Professionals who want to be challenged to their highest level of performance. Phase Two students get advanced training and work in conditions that mimic salon reality. By planning, managing and setting team goals, and going that extra mile, you’ll learn to create your own success.
The Phase Two program features:
- A progressive clinic floor classroom setting environment
- Accelerated guest booking and double-booking
- Team-based guest service systems
- Personal and team goal setting for services and Take Home
- Refinement of creative technical skills
- High level of independence in decision making
- Collaborative and consultative relationship with the Phase Two Leader
- Special Phase Two guest artists
- Guest management training
- Coaching on advanced Take Home and service skills
Student Kit
One of the most exciting days for our Future Professionals is the day they get to unwrap their very own professional kit. It’s packed with all the essentials—hot styling tools, mannequin heads, combs and brushes, scissors and clips, and much more—so you’re ready to succeed in school and launch your dream career.
Digital Support
When you have the latest technology and resources at your fingertips, you’ll be more successful in school and in your career. Future Professionals have on-the-go access to schoolwork, advice from industry leaders, Paul Mitchell cutting and coloring apps, our exclusive Business Fundamentals: Connecting to My Future curriculum and much more.
Learn More
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Learn more about our graduation, placement, and licensure rates, and much more.
OUR COSMETOLOGY PROGRAMS
Cosmetology 1000 Hours
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
School Supplies, Kit, and Tuition Costs
| TUITION – COSMETOLOGY (1000 CLOCK HOURS) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $15,800.00 |
| Application Fee (nonrefundable) | 25.00 |
| Registration Fee | 75.00 |
| Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) (nonrefundable) * | 0.00 |
| Technical Kit (nonrefundable) * | 2,250.09 |
| Textbook (nonrefundable) * | 329.96 |
| Digital Kit (nonrefundable) * | 499.84 |
| Technical Kit Sales tax (7.75%) (nonrefundable) * | 174.38 |
| TOTAL COSTS | $19,154.27 |
| Program | Per Clock Hour Rate (Transfer and Re-Entry Students Only) |
|---|---|
| Cosmetology 1000 | $17.00 |
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
School Required Hours
Commitment to Complete Program: 1000 hours
WHEN CAN I GET STARTED?
Ready to get started? Here are our upcoming start dates for this program:
- 11-12-2025 - Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 12-08-2025 - Cosmetology (1000hrs) NIGHT
- 01-06-2026 Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 02-17-2026 Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 03-31-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 04-20-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) Night
- 05-13-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 05-13-2026- Barbering (1000hrs) DAY
- 06-22-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) NIGHT
- 06-23-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 08-04-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 08-24-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) NIGHT
- 09-22-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 10-26-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) NIGHT
- 11-03-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
- 12-15-2026- Cosmetology (1000hrs) DAY
Program Schedule Options
| Option | Days | Times | Hrs/Day | Hrs/Wk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Full Time | Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM | 7 hrs per day | 35 hrs per week |
| 4-Nights Part Time | Monday – Thursday | 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM | 5 hrs per day | 20 hrs per week |
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
- The Cutting System App
- The Color System App
- The Style and Texture System App
- The Barber and Short Hair System App
- The Skill Cards App
- The Makeup System App
- Plugged In App
- Connecting to My Future App
- Makeup Portfolio
- Be Nice or Else iBook
- The Mini-Color Swatch Book
- CourseKey Skills Tracker
Transfer students are responsible to purchase the education kit at an additional cost from the tuition. The cost of the education kit is $700.00.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS
- 1 Cosmetology Pivot Point ISBN 978-1-940593-59-3 $329.96
- 1 Cosmetology Pivot Point Study Guide
- 1 California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Act and Regulations book
- 1 Health and Safety Course Textbook
- 1 Health and Safety Course Exam Booklet
Cosmetology Make-Up
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
| TUITION – COSMETOLOGY MAKE-UP (1245 CLOCK HOURS) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $19,475.00 |
| Application Fee (nonrefundable) | 25.00 |
| Registration Fee | 75.00 |
| Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) (nonrefundable) * | 0.00 |
| Technical Kit (nonrefundable) * | 4,522.09 |
| Textbook (nonrefundable) * | 329.96 |
| Digital Kit (nonrefundable) * | 499.84 |
| Technical Kit Sales tax (7.75%) (nonrefundable) * | 350.46 |
| TOTAL COSTS | $25,277.35 |
| Program | Per Clock Hour Rate (Transfer and Re-Entry Students Only) |
|---|---|
| Cosmetology Make-Up 1245 | $17.00 |
This is the estimated schedule of total charges for the entire educational program assuming you do not exceed the scheduled hours.
* Amount is refundable during the cancellation period.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
School Required Hours
Commitment to Complete Program: 1245 hours
WHEN CAN I GET STARTED?
Ready to get started? Here are our upcoming start dates for this program:
- 11-12-2025 - Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 12-08-2025 - Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) NIGHT
- 01-06-2026 Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 02-16-2026 Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) NIGHT
- 02-17-2026 Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 03-31-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 04-20-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 05-13-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 06-22-2026- Cosmetology Makeup (1245hrs) NIGHT
- 06-23-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 08-04-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 09-22-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 10-26-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) NIGHT
- 11-03-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 12-15-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) DAY
- 12-15-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1200hrs) DAY
Program Schedule Options
| Option | Days | Times | Hrs/Day | Hrs/Wk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Full Time | Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM | 7 hrs per day | 35 hrs per week |
| 4-Nights Part Time | Monday – Thursday | 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM | 5 hrs per day | 20 hrs per week |
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
- The Cutting System App
- The Color System App
- The Style and Texture System App
- The Barber and Short Hair System App
- The Skill Cards App
- The Makeup System App
- Plugged In App
- Connecting to My Future App
- Be Nice or Else iBook ISBN-13: 978-0-974-993-99-7
- Makeup Portfolio
- The Mini-Color Swatch Book
- CourseKey Skills Tracker
Transfer students are responsible to purchase the education kit at an additional cost from the tuition. The cost of the education kit is $700.00.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS
- 1 Cosmetology Pivot Point ISBN 978-1-940593-59-3 $329.96
- 1 Cosmetology Pivot Point Study Guide
- 1 California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Act and Regulations book
- 1 Health and Safety Course Textbook
- 1 Health and Safety Course Exam Booklet
Cosmetology/Barbering Combo 1200 hr.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
| TUITION – COSMETOLOGY/BARBERING (1200 CLOCK HOURS) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $18,950.00 |
| Application Fee (nonrefundable) | 25.00 |
| Registration Fee | 75.00 |
| Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) (nonrefundable) * | 0.00 |
| Technical Kit (nonrefundable) * | 2,488.53 |
| Textbook (nonrefundable) * | 675.75 |
| Digital Kit (nonrefundable) * | 499.84 |
| Technical Kit Sales tax (7.75%) (nonrefundable) * | 189.76 |
| TOTAL COSTS | $22,903.88 |
| Program | Per Clock Hour Rate (Transfer and Re-Entry Students Only) |
|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Barbering 1200 | $17.00 |
This is the estimated schedule of total charges for the entire educational program assuming you do not exceed the scheduled hours.
* Amount is refundable during the cancellation period.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
School Required Hours
Commitment to Complete Program: 1200 hours
WHEN CAN I GET STARTED?
Ready to get started? Here are our upcoming start dates for this program:
- 11-12-2025 - Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 12-08-2025 - Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 01-06-2026 Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 02-16-2026 Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 02-17-2026 Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 03-31-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 04-20-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 05-13-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 06-22-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 06-23-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 08-04-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 08-24-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 08-24-2026- Cosmetology+Makeup (1245hrs) NIGHT
- 09-22-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 10-26-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) NIGHT
- 11-03-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
- 12-15-2026- Cosmetology/Barbering (1200hrs) DAY
Program Schedule Options
| Option | Days | Times | Hrs/Day | Hrs/Wk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Full Time | Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM | 7 hrs per day | 35 hrs per week |
| 4-Nights Part Time | Monday – Thursday | 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM | 5 hrs per day | 20 hrs per week |
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
- The Cutting System App
- The Color System App
- The Style and Texture System App
- The Barber and Short Hair System App
- The Skill Cards App
- The Makeup System App
- Plugged In App
- Connecting to My Future App
- Be Nice or Else iBook ISBN-13: 978-0-974-993-99-7
- Makeup Portfolio
- The Mini-Color Swatch Book
- CourseKey Skills Tracker
Transfer students are responsible to purchase the education kit at an additional cost from the tuition. The cost of the education kit is $700.00.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS
- 1 Cosmetology Pivot Point ISBN 978-1-940593-59-3 $329.96
- 1 Barber Pivot Point ISBN 978-1-940593-97-5 $345.79
- 1 California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Act and Regulations book
- 1 Health and Safety Course Textbook
- 1 Health and Safety Course Exam Booklet
- TOTAL: $675.75
Net Price Calculator
Use the Net Price Calculator to estimate tuition information based on what similar students paid in a previous year.
Launch Calculator
Funding Your Education
There are a wide variety of financial aid options out there—and we’re here to help you find them. Get information about tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and more from our helpful San Diego Financial Aid Leader.
Learn More