Cosmetology Courses in Maryland
Although there are currently no public or non-profit schools in Maryland offering cosmetology courses, students can choose from 20 for-profit beauty schools in the state that provide cosmetology training. Keep reading to learn about two of these programs, the available areas of specialization, and the emphasis on hands-on learning that prepares students for licensure tests. The table provides more details about the schools and allows you to easily compare factors such as enrollment, tuition costs, and acceptance rates.
- Hair Academy is located in New Carrollton and offers a cosmetology program, in addition to a professional barbering program.
- Award Beauty School offers cosmetology, nail technician, and barbering programs. This school is situated in the northern portion of the state, in Hagerstown.
Comparison of Schools
At first glance, the programs for these schools may look quite similar. Aspiring cosmetologists in Maryland might also want to look further into these two schools, by checking out the table below to learn more about tuition charges, retention rates and student population numbers.
| Hair Academy | Award Beauty School | |
|---|---|---|
| School Type | Less-than-2-year, private, for-profit | Less-than-2-year, private, for-profit |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 348* | 94* |
| Campus Setting | Large suburb | Small city |
| Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (2021-2022) | $20,600 (general cosmetology program)* | $22,900 (general cosmetology program)* |
| % of First-Year Students Receiving Some Form of Financial Aid (2020-2021) | 100%* | 100%* |
| Acceptance Rate (2021) | 100% (open admissions)* | 100% (open admissions)* |
| Retention Rate (2020-2021) | 51% for full-time students, 51% for part-time students* | 67% for full-time students, 53% for part-time students* |
| Undergraduate Graduation Rate (for students who began studies 2018-2019) | 46%* | 50%* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator.
Hair Academy
Hair Academy has been in operation for more than 40 years and is located northeast of Washington, D.C., in New Carrollton, Maryland. The school is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences and is regionally approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. The programs educate aspiring cosmetologists, manicurists and pedicurists, and barbers.
Cosmetology Program
Students must complete 1,500 hours of study in this program, which can be completed in less than one year. Topics addressed in the curriculum include manicuring and pedicuring, chemical applications, make-up application, braiding, extensions and wigs. Advanced students apply techniques learned in the classroom on customers in an on-site clinical salon.
Professional Barbering Program
Earn the highest level of barber professionalism during this 1,200-hour program. Studies incorporate a combination of theory classes with practical mannequin work in order to prepare the students for hands-on practice with actual clients in the studio salon. By the end of the program, students will have a full understanding of the basic barbering techniques and more advanced styling skills.
Award Beauty School
Award Beauty School in Hagerstown, Maryland, was founded over 50 years ago. The school is nationally accredited and offers state-approved programs in cosmetology and nail technology. It offers nail technology and cosmetology courses during the day and in the evenings, as well as a barbering program that meets state requirements.
Cosmetology Program
This 1,500-hour cosmetology program combines classroom instruction, demonstrations and practical hands-on experiences. Courses focus mainly on the care and treatments for hair, skin and nails. Advanced students apply hairstyling and nail techniques at a modern on-campus salon. Graduates are prepared to take the Maryland state licensing examination for cosmetologists.
Nail Technology Program
Manicure and pedicure techniques are taught in this 250-hour program. Nail art and nail technology theories are also discussed. Students are eligible to take the Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists licensing exam and begin working at salons as entry-level nail technicians.