Cosmetology School & Program at سԹ

  • NACCAS-accredited cosmetology program preparing you for state board licensure in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
  • 1,500 hours of hands-on training including real client services in our on-campus student-run salon.
  • Graduate job-ready in as little as 12 months with career support, business training, and state board exam prep.

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AACS Golden School Awards 2022 School Of The Year AACS Golden School Awards 2023 School Of The Year Top Places to Work Chicago Tribune 2025

Your Future in the Cosmetology Industry Begins Here

The Cosmetology program at سԹ prepares you for a versatile career in the beauty industry. You’ll gain a strong foundation across hair, skin, and nails—allowing you to explore multiple career paths such as hairstyling, color specialization, makeup artistry, texture services, salon management, and more.

Through a combination of technical training and hands-on experience, you’ll develop both the creative and professional skills needed to succeed in a real salon environment. Students complete 1,500 state-required training hours, including supervised services in our on-campus student-run salon, before graduation.

Tricoci cosmetology student working on a client's hair
15,000+ graduates
20+ years of experience
15 campuses
NACCAS accreditedInfo icon

The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for postsecondary schools and departments of cosmetology arts and sciences and massage therapy, including those offered via distance education.

Our Accredited Programs: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Barber, Nail Technology

Eligible for federal financial aid

What You’ll Learn in the Cosmetology Program

Our cosmetology curriculum blends hair cutting, coloring, styling, skincare, and nail services with real-world training to prepare you for a versatile career in today’s beauty industry.

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Cosmetology Career Duration

Full Time: approximately 12 months

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Part Time: approximately 22 months

Total training hours: 1,500 hours
meets state board licensure requirements in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin

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Cosmetology Career Duration. Total training hours: 1,500 hours meets state board licensure requirements in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin

Full Time: approximately 12 months

|

Part Time: approximately 22 months

Our cosmetology curriculum blends hair cutting, coloring, styling, skincare, and nail services with real-world training to prepare you for a versatile career in today’s beauty industry.

Cosmetology Curriculum
  • Hair Services:
  • Techniques in Hair Cutting, Styling, and Finishing.
  • Precision Haircutting: Layering, Graduation, and One-Length Cuts.
  • Coloring, Chemical Treatments, and Texture Services for all Hair Types.
  • Permanent Waving, Relaxing, and Smoothing Treatments
  • Shampooing and Conditioning for Different Hair Types and Scalp Conditions.
  • Scalp Treatments and Scalp Manipulation to Support Hair Health.
  • Thermal Styling Using Blow Dryers, Curling Irons, and Flat Irons.
  • Wet Styling Including Finger Waves and Classic Set Styling.
  • Hair Finishing Techniques Including Polishing and Texturizing.
  • Advanced Hair Coloring Systems and Custom Color Formulations.
  • Practical Application of Modern Hair Design and Styling Trends.
  • Skin & Nail Services:
  • Manicuring: Nail Shaping, Cuticle Care, and Polish Application.
  • Pedicuring: Foot Care, Exfoliation, and Finishing Services.
  • Facial Treatments Including Cleansing, Exfoliation, and Mask Application.
  • Makeup Application Techniques for Everyday and Event Looks.
  • Science & Safety:
  • Electricity Fundamentals for Safe Use of Salon Tools and Equipment
  • Chemistry Concepts Related to Hair Color, Lightening, and Chemical Treatments
  • State and Industry-Specific Safety Regulations and Sanitation Standards
  • Clinic Floor Experience:
  • Real-World Experience Performing Services in a Student Clinic Environment
  • Model Days, Friends & Family Days, and Clinic Spa Days
Tricoci student practicing braiding hair
Business, Retail & Client Retention Training

Beyond technical skills, students receive training in salesmanship, retailing, and basic salon management, learning how to recommend products, personalize services, and create strong client relationships. The program also introduces consultation techniques and service customization, helping students build repeat clientele and succeed in real salon environments or independent cosmetology careers.

Tricoci students practicing hair techniques
State Board & Licensure Preparation

Our Cosmetology Program is structured to prepare students for state board licensing exams through:

  • A Combination of theory, hands-on practice, and continuous assessment.
  • Practical and written exams throughout the program
  • Theory and demonstration as well as Sanitation and Actual Practice are required
Cosmetology teacher training session at Tricoci

We Make Your Dream Career Affordable

  • Explore tuition that fits your campus
  • Access scholarships & flexible payment options
  • Get a personalized plan with financial aid experts
  • No hidden fees – tuition guarantee!
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سԹ is NACCAS Accredited

The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for postsecondary schools and departments of cosmetology arts and sciences and massage therapy, including those offered via distance education.

Our Accredited Programs: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Barber, Nail Technology

  • Meet Industry Standards
  • Professional Training
  • Career Ready
  • Nationally Recognized

Award-Winning Education Recognized Nationwide

AACS Golden School Awards 2022 School Of The Year AACS Golden School Awards 2023 School Of The Year

AACS Golden School Award
School of the Year 2022 & 2023
Back-to-Back Winner

CER Exceptional Educator Award
Maderia Selenica Bridgeview

AACS Golden School Awards 2023 Facilities AACS Golden School Awards 2023 Placement

AACS Golden School Award
Best Facilities & Top Placement
Bridgeview & Bloomington

Top Places to Work Chicago Tribune 2025

Top Workplaces 2025
Chicago Tribune
سԹ

Real Clients. Real Salons. Real Experience.

Hands-on training is the foundation of the Cosmetology program at سԹ. From your earliest weeks in the program, you’ll practice on mannequins, then move to fellow students, then to real guests in our on-campus student salon, building speed, consultation skills, and service confidence before graduation.

Of the 1,500 total training hours, the majority are spent in supervised practical and clinic environments using the same professional-grade equipment, products, and salon software you’ll encounter after graduation.

You’ll Perform:

  • Haircuts (precision, layered, graduated, one-length) on real clients
  • Single-process and multi-dimensional color services
  • Texture services (permanent waves, smoothing treatments, relaxers)
  • Manicures, pedicures, and basic nail services
  • Facials, makeup application, and basic skin care services
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Specialized Clinic Days:

  • Model Days – students perform services on professional models in salon-style sessions
  • Friends & Family Days – guests visit campus for discounted services delivered by students under supervision
  • Clinic Spa Days – full-service days combining hair, skin, and nail services in a real-salon flow

Why Choose سԹ for Cosmetology?

Flexible Day & Evening Classes
Train on a schedule that works for your life.
Hands-On, Real Experience
Give and receive services throughout the program, plus gain service confidence during our Model Days, Friends & Family Days, and Clinic Spa days.
Guest Speaker Masterclasses
Learn from industry professionals, business leaders, and social media creators.
Career-Focused Training
Build confidence in service planning, client communication, retailing, and treatment customization—skills that drive success in any setting.
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Cosmetology instructor teaching student hair drying techniques

Accreditation, Licensure & What It Means for Your Career

Accreditation:

سԹ is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). NACCAS accreditation means our cosmetology program meets the federal standards required for Title IV financial aid eligibility, and our coursework is recognized by state cosmetology boards in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

State Board Licensure Preparation:

Our 1,500-hour Cosmetology program meets the training requirements for state cosmetology licensure in:

Illinois
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), 1,500 hours required
Indiana
Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners, 1,500 hours required
Wisconsin
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, 1,500 hours required

What This Means for Employers:

Verified credentials
Salons hire licensed cosmetologists. A NACCAS-accredited program plus state licensure is the credential employers verify on day one.
License portability
Cosmetology licenses transfer with reciprocity across many states, giving Tricoci graduates regional career mobility throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Federal financial aid eligibility
Pell Grants, federal student loans, and other Title IV programs are only available through NACCAS-accredited schools.

Hear the Journey of Our Students

I had an amazing experience during my time as a student at Tricoci. The staff is caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and very helpful. I know they all genuinely care about what happens to us when we graduate. I loved all the events I was able to participate in, the competitions, and classes. So many opportunities to grow at Tricoci, with amazing mentors I know will always be here to support me and anyone else who wants to grow.

-Lindsay Farberg
سԹ Student

This school has definitely changed my life and long time goals. They gave me purpose and a calling I’ve never knew I had. The time I have spent here has been great in so many ways! People come and go but experiences can never be replaced. Cosmetology is for sure not for the weak, you need dedication and patience to devour your fears of messing up or even giving a service that the client might not potentially like. I thank all the students and teachers for their support

– Hi’i Lani Steimel
سԹ Student

This school is very enthusiastic and I love the educators here! Especially Ms. Donna🩷 she’s just amazing all around, supportive, helpful, funny, real and all around beautiful! Thank you Ms. Donna, and thank you TUBC for helping me build my career!

– Dezjah Jeffries
سԹ Student

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Where a Tricoci Cosmetology License Can Take You

A سԹ cosmetology license opens doors across the beauty industry. Graduates work in independent salons, salon chains, spas and resorts, and freelance careers throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin and beyond.

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Employer Categories
  • Independent salons - local salons throughout Chicago, the Chicago suburbs, Milwaukee, Indianapolis,
  • Bloomington, Peoria, Normal, and Rockford
  • Salon chains - Tricoci Salon & Spa, Hair Cuttery, Ulta Beauty, Drybar, Great Clips, and similar national operators
  • Spas, resorts, and hotel salons - high-end day spas, destination resorts, and hotel-based salons
  • Freelance and bridal artistry - wedding, editorial, and special event work
  • Product education and platform artistry - manufacturer-led roles for graduates with strong technical and presentation skills
Role Progression
Most graduates enter the industry as assistant stylists or junior stylists, progressing to stylist, senior stylist, colorist, master stylist, and eventually salon manager or salon owner. Specialized career paths include color specialist, texture specialist, makeup artist, and educator.
Local Market Context
Illinois and Indiana both recognize a 1,500-hour cosmetology license, while Wisconsin requires 1,550 hours. Because all three states honor coursework reciprocity across state lines, Tricoci graduates enjoy the freedom to work throughout the Midwest. The Chicago metro area alone supports thousands of licensed cosmetologists across luxury salons, neighborhood barbershops, and full-service spas.

Tuition, Aid, and How to Pay for Cosmetology School

Tuition for the Cosmetology program at سԹ varies by campus and program length. Tuition typically includes classroom instruction, clinic floor access, your student kit (including professional tools and, at participating campuses, an Apple iPad with curriculum software), and ongoing career support.

Most students qualify for one or more of the following:

  • Federal Pell Grants (NACCAS accreditation makes the program Title IV eligible)
  • Federal Direct Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
  • سԹ scholarships and grants (limited availability, application required)
  • Interest-free monthly payment plans
  • Workforce development funding for eligible applicants
Peoria, IL campus building

To get a personalized tuition estimate for your campus and program length, request information or speak with a سԹ financial aid advisor.

To get a personalized tuition estimate for your campus and program length, request information or speak with a سԹ financial aid advisor.

Request Info

Tricoci Campus Locations

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

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Pick your campus — then take the next step.

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Start Your Career in Cosmetology at سԹ

Request more information today and begin your journey toward a rewarding career in cosmetology.

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Close up of Tricoci logo on student clothing

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?green arrow
Cosmetology school requires 1,500 hours of training to qualify for licensure in Illinois and Indiana, and 1,550 hours in Wisconsin. At سԹ, you can complete your 1,500 hours full-time in approximately 10 months, or part-time in approximately 17 months, depending on campus and schedule. Both pathways prepare you to sit for your state board licensure exam upon graduation.
How much does cosmetology school cost?green arrow
Tuition for the Cosmetology program at سԹ varies by campus and program length. Tuition includes classroom instruction, clinic floor access, your student kit (with professional tools), and ongoing career support. Most students qualify for federal financial aid through Pell Grants and federal loans, سԹ scholarships, or interest-free monthly payment plans. To get a personalized estimate based on your campus and start date, request information or speak with a سԹ financial aid advisor.
Is سԹ accredited?green arrow
Yes. سԹ is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. As an accredited institution, سԹ is eligible to participate in federal financial aid programs, including Title IV funding, helping students access grants and loans to support their education. Our programs are also recognized by state cosmetology boards in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin for licensure.
How much hands-on training do students get?green arrow
Hands-on training is the foundation of the Cosmetology program at سԹ. Students perform real services on real guests in our on-campus student salon, building speed, consultation skills, and service confidence before graduation. Additional hands-on practice happens during Model Days, Friends & Family Days, and Clinic Spa Days, where students deliver supervised services in a real-salon environment. Students train using professional-grade equipment and tools they'll use in any salon after graduation.
What certifications does this program prepare me for?green arrow
The Cosmetology program at سԹ prepares you to sit for the state board cosmetology licensure exam in Illinois, Indiana, or Wisconsin. The curriculum covers all required training hours—1,500 hours for Illinois and Indiana, and 1,550 hours for Wisconsin—including theory, practical, and clinic training. Upon completion, you will earn a سԹ Certificate in Cosmetology and be eligible to apply for licensure in your state.
How do I become a cosmetologist?green arrow
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois, Indiana, or Wisconsin:
(1) enroll in an accredited cosmetology program,
(2) complete your hours of theory, practical, and clinic training,
(3) pass your state board exams, and
(4) apply for your state cosmetology license.

At سԹ, our 10-month full-time and 17-month part-time programs cover all 1,500 required hours plus career preparation, business training, and state board exam preparation.
Where do Tricoci cosmetology graduates work?green arrow
سԹ cosmetology graduates work across the beauty industry as hairstylists, hair colorists, makeup artists, texture specialists, and salon managers in independent salons, salon chains, spas, resorts, and freelance careers. Many graduates also move into salon ownership, product education, or platform artistry roles. Career support at سԹ includes resume help, interview prep, and ongoing alumni resources.
Is cosmetology school worth it?green arrow
Cosmetology is a licensed trade that cannot be automated, with flexible career paths ranging from salon employment to independent business ownership. A 1,500-hour cosmetology program is significantly shorter than a four-year degree, and graduates can begin working as licensed professionals in as little as 10 months. At سԹ, hands-on clinic training, business and retail coursework, and state board exam preparation are built into the program so graduates leave job-ready.

Read what people have to say about our cosmetology program

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