Atlanta, GA, Area Barber Schools
Several schools within an hour's drive of downtown Atlanta offer barbering programs that meet state requirements for professional licensing. This article looks at three of those schools. It also includes a table that highlights information prospective students should consider, such as costs and enrollment. A list of a few other nearby schools with barbering programs is included, too.
- Atlanta Technical College is a public school located a little under three miles from downtown Atlanta. The college offers barbering diploma for new students and a certificate program for cosmetologists.
- Although the cosmetology diploma program at Georgia Piedmont Technical College isn't specifically for barbers, students interested in barbering can acquire the skills used in the field by completing the diploma program. Georgia Piedmont's campus is about 10 miles from downtown Atlanta.
- Southern Crescent Technical College's programs are about 50 miles from downtown Atlanta. The school offers a barbering diploma program for new students and a certificate in barbering for cosmetologists.
Comparison of Schools
In order to make a sound decision about their education, individuals should look at many aspects of a school. This table includes information that will help them evaluate their options.
| Atlanta Technical College | Georgia Piedmont Technical College | Southern Crescent Technical College | |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Type | 2-year, public | 2-year, public | 2-year, public |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 3,797* | 2,577* | 4,996* |
| Campus Setting | Large city | Large suburb | Large suburb |
| Tuition & Fees (2022-2023) | $3,164 in-state; $5,564 out-of-state* | $3,158 in-state; $5,558 out-of-state* | $3,126 in-state; $5,526 out-of-state* |
| % of First-Year, Full-Time Students Receiving Any Form of Aid (2020-2021) | 93%* | 96%* | 97%* |
| Acceptance Rate | N/A - open admissions* | N/A - open admissions* | N/A - open admissions* |
| Retention Rate (Fall 2020 returning Fall 2021) | 60% for full-time students; 45% for part-time students* | 53% for full-time students; 34% for part-time | 58% for full-time students; 44% for part-time students* |
| Graduation Rate (students who started in Fall 2018) | 44%* | 40%* | 51%* |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
Atlanta Technical College
The requirements and standards set by the Georgia State Board of Barbering are met through this school's barbering programs.
Barbering Diploma
In order to start this barbering program, students must be at least 16 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. The 52-credit program starts off with some fundamental courses in mathematics, English and interpersonal communication. During the technical classes, students can learn about barbering techniques and tools. Students also study shop management and ownership, chemical hair restructuring and color theory. Completion of an internship is necessary for graduation.
Barbering for Cosmetologists Technical Certificate
Current holders of a master cosmetology license can apply to this technical certificate program. The program requires 19 credit hours of work. The introductory courses go over styling and barbering skills, in addition to hair cutting and shampooing. The program also covers topics like shaving, sanitation and sterilization.
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Georgia Piedmont Technical College provides associate's degree and diploma programs, as well as adult education programs that often meet in the evenings. Students can prepare for their careers by contacting the school's Office of Career Services.
Cosmetology Diploma
The cosmetology program offered at this school is normally completed with 54 total credits. Students complete some general education requirements, along with courses on styling, hair care, hair treatments and professional development. Additionally, students take several practicums, in addition to classes on nail care and skin care.
Southern Crescent Technical College
Southern Crescent Technical College was officially founded in 2010 and is part of the Technical College System of Georgia. Southern Crescent doesn't have a specific barber program but offers a cosmetology diploma program. The program emphasizes safety, sanitation and laws.
Cosmetology Diploma
This 55-credit program is designed to be completed in 5 terms starting in the fall. Courses include hair (shaping, styling, treatments, coloring), skin and nails. The curriculum meets licensing requirements for the State Board of Cosmetology.
Other School Options
West Georgia Technical College administers a cosmetology diploma program and an esthetician technical certificate program around 23 miles away from downtown Atlanta. Students looking a barbering diploma program can find options at Chattahoochee Technical College, which is about 24 miles from downtown Atlanta. Gwinnett Technical College, located around 28 miles from downtown, also provides cosmetology and barbering diploma programs.
