How to Become a Cosmetologist in Utah

Becoming a licensed cosmetologist is your gateway to a career that is in demand. People will always need their hair cut or their nails done, and professional cosmetologists can find a place to use their skills.

However, like all states, Utah has licensing and educational requirements you need to meet before you can work as a cosmetologist. Knowing what to expect on your journey can help you find the right opportunities and, of course, choose the right cosmetology school in Utah.

Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Cosmetologist in Utah

Find out how to become a cosmetologist in Utah, including education,  cosmetology license requirements, and which program to choose.

Educational Requirements

In Utah, cosmetologists are referred to as cosmetologists/barbers (barbers are licensed separately). You must complete 1,600 hours or equivalent credit hours of instruction at a recognized cosmetology/barber school. Most people take about 12 to 13 months to graduate if studying full time, 18 to 20 hours if studying part time.

Make sure you choose a school, like Taylor Andrews Academy of Hair Design, which is properly accredited and offers courses that meet the requirements. Your instruction will consist of classroom courses, clinical training in a student salon, but also things many schools don’t offer. This might include trips to popular fashion shows, studying abroad, or learning from high-level guest artists, some of them globally recognized!

Licensing Process

The process to apply for your license is relatively simple. You will need proof of graduation and to pass theory and practical exams to prove your skills. A good cosmetology school in Utah will help you prepare so you can pass the exams first time. There is an associated fee, $60 at the time of writing.

You are also required to take a two-hour Hair Safety Course and pass an examination. Your primary exams will be administered by Prov. Written exams take place at one of Prov’s 18 testing locations, four of which also allow you to take your practical exam. Prov does not do online proctored exams.

Once you have passed your exams, you will have your license quickly. There are no limits on retaking failed exams and you can retake only the section of an exam you failed.

Continuing Education and Career Development

You should not see being licensed as an endpoint, but rather as the start of your career. Unlike some states, Utah does not require you to do mandatory continuing education, although you have to renew your license every two years.

However, not doing continuing education can harm your career. Taylor Andrews offers ongoing career support to help you develop your career. You may also want to take more business classes and aim for owning your own salon, or build the experience you need to be a cosmetology instructor.

Always keep up with the latest trends and techniques.

Why Choose Taylor Andrews Academy?

We aren’t like other beauty schools. Here are some reasons why you might want to choose Taylor Andrews over other cosmetology schools in Utah:

• Field trips to major fashion shows so you can watch the best
• Guest artists, often globally recognized, providing unparalleled instruction. Past guests have included Global Hairdresser of the Year Philip Wilson
• Salon success training to prepare you for the business side of things, including instruction in marketing, promotion, and leadership
• Experienced staff members who have been nominated for industry awards, including the North American Hairstylist of the Year, National Educator of the Year, and Bumble and Bumble Future Hair Heroes
• Staff who do high-quality continuous education and training throughout the year.
• A study abroad program which has traveled to London, Paris, and Japan.
• Externships at some of the best salons and spas in Utah.
• A student salon that looks much higher end than most and helps you feel as if you are helping real clients quickly.
• Tuition that includes everything so there are no surprises such as equipment and supply fees. (There is an affordable cost for field trips)

All of this takes you beyond licensing requirements to give you the best possible start to your career in beauty.

We support our alumni through their careers and even help with advice on licensing in other states. Our students speak highly of their experience and how much they learn and many of them don’t want to leave! One of our students from many years ago said it felt no different from working in an actual salon…and has had a successful career since. Our graduation rate is very high.

We aim to support our students throughout their education and career..

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Many of our students get financial aid. You can get federal financial aid for beauty school,by filling out the FAFSA application*. The cost of our cosmetology course is just over $21k, and you can use FAFSA loans to help cover this expense.

We also offer a limited number of scholarships based on merit and can help you find outside scholarships that might help you. If you can’t pay it all at once, finally, we offer a payment plan. We recommend applying for a student loan first. Our financial aid office can advise you on financing your cosmetology course. While we can’t guarantee employment, we assist students in finding job opportunities. The costs and timeline to complete are typically lower than a four-year degree, allowing you to start working sooner.

Cosmetology is a rewarding career in which you spend your time helping people look and feel their best. Licensed cosmetologists seldom have problems finding work in salons, spas, and other settings, and because Utah has a relatively high number of required hours, it’s easier to transfer your license to another state.

If you are thinking about a career in cosmetology contact us today to schedule a tour of one of our campuses before putting in your application. We would love to see you succeed.

*Financial Aid available only to those who qualify.