Best Cosmetology Schools in Chicago, IL Metro Area
The top 12 schools in our list of the best cosmetology programs in the greater Chicago metro area include glowing recommendations from some of the hottest local salon owners and stylists. Discover our top picks in Chicago and what makes these schools stand out.
- Pivot Point Academy
- Douglas J Aveda Institute
- Tricoci University of Beauty Culture
- Cosmetology and Spa Academy
- Paul Mitchell The School
- Empire Beauty School
- John Amico School of Hair Design
- Capelli Salon Academy
- Rosel School of Cosmetology
- Steven Papageorge Hair Academy
- Trenz Beauty Academy
- Hair Professionals Career College
Methodology and Editor’s Notes
We compared educational institutions from the Beauty Schools Directory database of cosmetology programs in the greater Chicago, IL metro area. To compile our list, we reached out to local salon owners and beauty businesses, combed through hundreds of online reviews, and considered several factors:
All of the cosmetology programs in our list are accredited and/or state-approved.
Finding the Right Cosmetology Program for You
We looked all over the greater Chicago, IL area to cover a wide variety of locations. But the right program for you will be personal. What are your career goals? Does their curriculum support your desired specialty? What is your budget? Will you have enough financial aid to cover tuition and fees? Where are you located? Where do you work? Will you realistically and reliably be able to make it to school to stay on track with your hours? What is your schedule like? Does the school offer a schedule that works with other obligations you have going on in your life?
The schools in our list are excellent, with noteworthy reputations. But there are more than 60 cosmetology programs in and around Chicago – you have a lot of options. Be sure to check out these other resources as you continue your search for a cosmetology program:
Explore All Cosmetology Schools in Chicago, Illinois
Student Voices Series: Choosing Your School, with Delecia H
More Tips on How to Choose a School
Top 12 Cosmetology Schools in the Chicago Area
#1 Pivot Point
Why they made the list:
Pivot Point Academy in Bloomingdale, IL is a two-time AACS Golden School Award winner for school of the year. The feedback we heard from local salon owners made it obvious that this school belonged on our list. One salon owner commented, “Pivot Point is a well-known school that it seems like people love attending and do get hired fast because of them attending that school.” And others echoed the opinion that Pivot Point “has an amazing reputation for excellent education” and is “very involved in the success of their students.”
They have a diverse group of leaders, instructors, and staff, and it is also obvious from online reviews that Pivot Point sets their students up for success. One client shares that they were “very impressed with Ms. Frances, who shared her extensive knowledge during [their] visit,” and that it seemed “students are getting a quality education on different hair textures based on the instruction from Ms. Frances.” Another comment that caught our attention: “The teachers are phenomenal and truly give their students top notch education. Highly recommend this school for anyone - whether you’re just looking for a service or to get your education.”
Need a flexible schedule? Pivot Point Academy might not be the right school for you if you are looking for part-time or flexible schedules. They’ve designed their program to be completed in 12 months and offer one full-time schedule: 9:00 am – 4:45 pm, Tuesday – Saturday.
Locations:
#2 Douglas J Aveda
Why they made the list:
If attending a high-end, well-known school is important to you, Douglas J Aveda is it. One local salon owner tells us, “I believe Aveda students benefit by being exposed to such a large industry brand at the start of their career. Aveda has been around for so long because they know what it takes to be successful in this industry. Their students will learn how to cut, color and style hair just like they could at a lot of other schools. The difference is that with Aveda they also learn how to pamper their guests the Aveda way...by incorporating value added rituals into each service like incredible scalp massages, hand massages, aromatherapy, etc.”
Aveda secured their spot at the top of our list after we received multiple comments from hiring managers like this one: “Aveda Institute in Chicago is definitely one of the best schools around us and we pretty much hire any student that applies that graduated from this school.”
Another perk? “Since Aveda was a product company first, they teach their students strong sales techniques which will benefit them throughout their careers.”
On a tight budget? Douglas J Aveda is one of the more expensive schools on our list. Fortunately, they offer tailored financial plans to fit your budget. We encourage you to reach out to their financial aid team to discuss financial aid options, scholarships, and payment plans that they can offer you.
Locations:
#3 Tricoci
Why they made the list:
Tricoci University of Beauty Culture received the most mentions from all the local salon owners who shared their recommendations with us. They are a two-time AACS Golden School Award Winner for school of the year. If you need a school located very close to you, you can likely find a Tricoci campus. They have 6 locations throughout Chicagoland, plus a location in nearby Highland, IN.
Tricoci University was founded in 2004. They have built up a remarkable online reputation among clients who comment about their “professional teachers and well-trained students” and who “appreciate the [instructors] who gave tips and verbal validation of [the student’s] efforts and attention to detail.”
They have part-time and full-time schedules available to serve students with different needs. And, not only is Tricoci one of the more affordable cosmetology programs in the area, we appreciate that they offer interest-free monthly payment plans.
Looking for a diverse curriculum? Tricoci University of Beauty Culture is not transparent about whether textured or multicultural hair is a part of their cosmetology curriculum. We also noted some online reviews that suggest this may not be a focus for their students. During your campus tour, be sure to ask about how they incorporate natural hair care into their curriculum, whether textured hair mannequins are included in their student kits, and whether their textbooks include multicultural hair.
Locations:
#4 Cosmetology & Spa Academy
Why they made the list:
Cosmetology & Spa Academy may not be as popular as big-brand name schools, but they’ve been around for more than 30 years and have built up a strong, positive reputation among local salon owners. It’s obvious from looking at online reviews that students have largely positive experiences, and they received multiple nods from hiring managers, like this one:
“I would have to say that I most impressed with Cosmetology and Spa Academy. I participate often in their job fairs, and often interview and hire their graduates. I find the directors and instructors overall are genuinely organized and welcoming. They encourage all students to participate actively with salon and spa directors even if they have decided to start their journey in the field at a suite or a barber shop. It’s nice to collaborate with their students about their vision and expectations during that interaction.”
Looking for an affordable program? Cosmetology & Spa Academy is one of the more expensive schools in our list. Financial aid and scholarships can help with affordability, but it will be very important during your campus tour to talk to someone about how much financial aid is typically granted to their students and whether they can help you with interest-free payment plans.
Locations:
#5 Paul Mitchell The School
Why they made the list:
Paul Mitchell The School is another big-name brand with glowing recommendations from local salon owners and hiring managers. In fact, if we had to name the most frequently recommended school in the greater Chicago area, Paul Mitchell would be it. We can’t ignore recommendations like this one:
“The one I have recommended most and hired the most from is the Paul Mitchell school… In my experience and opinion, Paul Mitchell hands-down prepares students for the career as a whole. These students come out with a level up on how the industry works, and ready and prepared to work.”
Or this one: “Paul Mitchell The School [has] been a very successful product company in our industry for so many years, and they pass that success onto their students by teaching them everything they need to know in order to be successful. Like, value added rituals, how to ask for referrals, selling products, pre-booking appointments, etc. They also allow young stylists to dream big by exposing them to some of our industry's top artists both through their amazing global hair shows but also on a smaller, more intimate scale using their weekly ‘guest artist’ program… it exposes the students to a variety of people and gives them an opportunity to start building their network.”
Other perks that put them near the top of our list? “Paul Mitchell also offers many ways to get involved. Whether it's a club for people who want to do more makeup, green team for those interested in helping with environmental efforts, or an honors program for those very driven individuals who like to work hard, enjoy challenges and want to stand out from the rest.”
Paul Mitchell The School has “better than most leadership and consistently puts out stylists who are hard-working and also have business skills needed to be successful in the industry.” And with 5 campuses scattered across the Chicago metro area, there’s a good chance one of their locations will be convenient for you.
Need more than a brand name? The online reviews for Paul Mitchell schools are mixed. Big brands also garner big expectations, so we wouldn’t judge the school exclusively by their online reviews. We recommend bringing up any concerns during your campus tour and giving the school a chance to win you over.
Locations:
#6 Empire Beauty School
Why they made the list:
Empire Beauty School is another well-known name in the industry, and the online reviews for the two campuses near Chicago caught our attention. Reviews like this one are what places Empire on our list:
“The educator guided the student through the process using a calm demeanor and step-by-step instructions. The scholar displayed a kind demeanor while accurately following what was shown. I love how the student was teachable and did not catch an attitude during the process. In addition, I admire the good partnership.”
It’s important to tour any campus you’re interested in, but it’s especially noteworthy when interested students share positive reviews about the leaders and admin of the school. If you’re looking for a school with leaders who are “kind and supportive” and “patient and understanding,” you might add Empire to your shortlist of cosmetology programs.
Another reason to add Empire to your shortlist? They’re one of the more affordable programs on our list.
Locations:
#7 John Amico School of Hair Design
Why they made the list:
John Amico School of Hair Design is another program with a long-standing reputation. For those on a tighter budget but still looking for a well-known, highly-recommended school, John Amico offers one of the most affordable cosmetology programs on our list.
We appreciate that cosmetology students are in different stages of life and aren’t always able to commit to full-time schedules. More than any other school on our list, John Amico School of Hair Design seems to understand this. They cater to full-time and part-time students and offer both day and evening schedules, including an accelerated program for any students who can commit to longer hours.
If working with organic products is important to you, put John Amico on your shortlist.
Locations:
#8 Capelli Salon Academy
Why they made the list:
Capelli Salon Academy made it onto our radar when an industry leader in the community shared her perspective: “Capelli Salon is an independent school with smaller classes. They take an active role in the daily education of each student teaching them the craft as well as reaching their full potential.”
Capelli Salon is an Intercoiffure school and boasts about their internationally educated leadership. Another important value that is core to the Intercoiffure organization? Diversity and inclusion.
Tuition is comparable to other schools on our list, but we also encourage students to talk about financial aid expectations and payment plans during your campus tour.
Locations:
#9 Rosel School of Cosmetology
Why they made the list:
The Rosel School of Cosmetology has been around since 1989, and in that time, they have built a noteworthy reputation. Rosel School makes our list for two core values: the success of beauty professionals and affordable education.
Smaller class sizes, an emphasis on job placement support after school, and a partnership with the Prosper U program are all great reasons to consider their cosmetology program.
Locations:
#10 Steven Papageorge Hair Academy
Why they made the list:
Steven Papageorge Hair Academy easily makes our list after reading through their online reviews. We take note of comments that their students “are well-trained, professional, hard working, humble and willing to learn.” And it doesn’t escape our attention when students remark that “Steven Papageorge Academy was the best decision I ever made in my life,” and “Steven Papgeorge and the instructors have prepared me for great success to come. I can honestly say that this is the best school in the state of Illinois.”
If their glowing online reviews and high passing rate on the Illinois state board licensing test don’t sway you, then it’s also worth noting that their program is one of the more affordable on our list and they offer various flexible schedules – two other important factors when choosing a school.
Locations:
#11 Trenz Beauty Academy
Why they made the list:
Trenz Beauty Academy was selected to partner with Beyoncé and the BeyGOOD fund in Chicago. And that was on top of already being one of the more affordable schools on our list. If affordability and diversity are at the top of your list of important factors for choosing a school, Trenz Beauty Academy has to be on your shortlist.
For students who want to continue working while in school or have other life obligations, Trenz Beauty Academy offers various schedules to meet your needs.
Locations:
#12 Hair Professionals Career College
Why they made the list:
Hair Professionals Career College has two campus locations to choose from near Chicago and both have some noteworthy online reviews from satisfied clients. If professionalism and customer satisfaction are two ingredients for career success, then Hair Professionals Career College is training their students well.
“The students are professional and work under some amazing directors,” and “I am so happy I decided to get an education from Hair Professionals, I love everything about them” are only two of the hundreds of amazing comments clients and students have left online.
Locations:
Honorable Mentions
Canella School of Hair Design
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Canella School of Hair Design – Elgin, IL
Canella School of Hair Design – Chicago, IL (Archer Ave.)
Canella School of Hair Design – Chicago, IL (Commercial Ave.)
Canella School of Hair Design – Villa Park, IL
Denmark College
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Denmark College – Merrillville, IN
Don Roberts School of Hair Design
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Don Roberts School of Hair Design – Schererville, IN
The University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology
Why they made the list:
Locations:
The University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology – Downer’s Grove, IL
Cameo Beauty Academy
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Cameo Beauty Academy – Oak Lawn, IL
Professional’s Choice Hair Design Academy
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Professional’s Choice Hair Design Academy – Joliet, IL
Capri Beauty College
Why they made the list:
Locations:
Capri Beauty College – New Lenox, IL
Capri Beauty College – Oak Forest, IL
Best Community and Career College Options in the Chicago Area
The amazing schools in our list above focus on beauty education. As you’re considering cosmetology programs, other school environments may be worth considering.
If you’re on the fence about attending a community or career college, consider this piece of advice shared by a local salon owner: “You get everything you need when you find a salon to mentor or assist at. That is where you learn expertise. Beauty school doesn’t teach you how to do great hair.”
College of DuPage
College of DuPage is a community college with an affordable, fast-paced cosmetology program. In addition to attending a reputable program, you’d have other campus amenities available to you that are not typically found at a beauty school, and you’d be in a more traditional college atmosphere.
A local hiring manager commented on their leadership, saying, “She runs a great school. Well-organized, and students are also prepared.”
Learn more about College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, IL
Technology Center of DuPage
Technology Center of Dupage (TCD) supports DuPage County area high school students through a technical education program. They have a strong reputation among local salon owners and hiring managers. One salon owner tells us, “[TCD] is a program that is a great money saving option that high schoolers can attend. They can graduate when they graduate high school depending on where they are at with their hours. I feel most of the super important education a stylist will learn is in salon.”
Learn more about Technology Center of DuPage in Addison, IL
City Colleges of Chicago – Harry S Truman
The Harry S Truman College is another community college option that offers a more affordable cosmetology program with a good reputation among local salon owners.
If affordability is most important to you and you’d enjoy a more traditional college learning environment, this could be a great option to add to your shortlist.
Learn more about Harry S Truman College in Chicago, IL
Last Tip for Choosing a Cosmetology Program
And on a final note, as you continue your search for a school, we’ll leave you with this shared opinion from those hiring cosmetologists: “Now that I am an owner, I do not care where they went to school, it's more than that for me. I want them to be driven, and hungry for their career. I can teach them how to do hair, I can't teach them how to WANT it.”
A special thanks…
We are very grateful to all the salon owners and hiring managers in and around the Chicago metro area who shared their personal experiences and professional expertise with us.