Best Cosmetology Schools in Nashville, TN Metro Area
Discover our picks for the top five cosmetology programs in and around Nashville. These schools are all well-known in the area and should be on your shortlist if you are searching for a cosmetology school in the area.
Methodology and Editor’s Notes
We compared educational institutions from the Beauty Schools Directory database of cosmetology programs in the greater Nashville, TN metro area. To compile our list, we 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
Choosing the right program will be personal to you. 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?
Be sure to check out these other resources as you continue your search for a cosmetology program:
Explore All Cosmetology Schools in Nashville, Tennessee
Student Voices Series: Choosing Your School, with Delecia H
More Tips on How to Choose a School
Top 5 Cosmetology Schools Near Nashville, TN
#1 Paul Mitchell The School
Why they made the list:
Paul Mitchell The School stands out as one of the best cosmetology programs in the area. They have a stellar online reputation among clients and students alike. This is a big-name brand that prides itself on delivering excellent education and practical experience. Student reviews consistently highlight their adeptness at working with multicultural hair, showcasing the school's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
We also appreciate that the school caters to busy schedules by offering flexible program options, making it easier to balance studies with life's demands.
Program costs for Paul Mitchell The School are comparable to other schools in the area. During your campus tour, be sure to ask about whether they offer interest-free payment plans and what the average student debt is for their students.
Locations:
#2 Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute
Why they made the list:
The Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute in Nashville has some of the most noteworthy raving online reviews. Our favorites, though, are the reviews that comment about the student’s growth. And comments that “the students and instructors work together to ensure that you are satisfied with the provided services and leave happy” don’t escape our attention.
One of the perks to this big-name brand school is Aveda's philosophy of wellness and sustainability. These principles come through clear in their mission and their products.
Another reasons Aveda made it on our list? They boast an impressive graduation rate, ensuring students are well-equipped for success. While program costs are competitive with other schools in the area, we recommend talking to their financial aid team about financing options and how much student graduate debt you can expect.
Locations:
#3 The Salon Professional Academy
Why they made the list:
The Salon Professional Academy in Nashville establishes itself among the best cosmetology schools. Their graduation rate is the highest of the programs on our list. They boast a 100% placement rate, highlighting their success in connecting students with salons upon graduation.
They have a 4.9 rating with nearly 2,000 reviews on Google. Clients regularly remark about the quality of their services, professionalism, and attention to detail – all necessary skills for building your business after completing your program.
Looking for an inclusive education? The Salon Professional Academy does not have a diverse student body or staff, and some reviews suggest that students may not be trained or prepared to work on multicultural hair. If diversity in your curriculum and school environment is important to you, then we highly recommend asking about how the school incorporates natural and multicultural hair care into their curriculum.
Locations:
#4 Franklin Hair Academy School of Cosmetology
Why they made the list:
Franklin Hair Academy School of Cosmetology might not have the brand recognition of other schools in the area, but they certainly get our nod for being one of the best. Franklin Hair Academy is the most affordable in our list and stands out for its commitment to accessibility.
You don’t have to sacrifice program quality for your budget or your schedule. Recognizing that many students have busy schedules and diverse commitments, the school provides a range of scheduling options to fit their needs.
Locations:
#5 Empire Beauty School
Why they made the list:
Empire Beauty School caught our attention because of their affordable and inclusive learning environment. Their program is one of the more affordable on our list. This commitment to affordability is further bolstered by their financial aid options.
The school prides itself on a diverse student body and staff, fostering a welcoming and enriching educational experience that reflects the community. Students gain valuable exposure to various hair types and textures, preparing them to succeed with a broader clientele.
Need a flexible schedule? Empire might not be the right choice for you if you need part-time or flexible scheduling options.
Locations:
Community and Career College Options
The top schools in our list above focus on beauty education. As you’re considering cosmetology programs, other school environments may be worth considering.
Genesis Career College
Learn more about Genesis Career College in Nashville, TN
Lawrenceburg Technical College
Learn more about Lawrenceburg Technical College in Lawrenceburg, TN
Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Learn more about Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Dickson, TN
Learn more about Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Murfreesboro, TN
Learn more about Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Nashville, TN